• If you break it, pay for it. Honesty is the best policy here. No one wants to be badgered by that tiny little voice nagging them that they may have done something wrong. If you break something it is not the end of the world. Let the operator know the circumstances of the situation. Not all things that break are the renter's fault so don't sway to the negative and assume that they are.
• Perform a thorough inspection when you first board your houseboat and note anything that is broken or not considered normal wear and tear with your rental company. They will usually do a walk through with you and it is important that you pay attention. A dented blind here, a broken handle there, damage in the carpet, etc., etc., should all be noted before you initially take possession of your houseboat.
• Remember the importance of an accurate assessment before you leave and remember that when you check the boat back in at the end of your trip, you may have a different person checking you in. That is one reason to make sure anything you notice is put in writing before you leave.
• If there is any question about the quality of the information noted on the walk through, we advise videotaping any area that may be suspect later. If you don't have a video, take a few pictures. They can be cheap insurance if a question comes up later.
• Most damage deposits start off life as part of the reservation process and will be returned to you in their entirety if you bring back the houseboat undamaged.
• The majority of houseboat rental operators are more than fair when it comes to damage deposits. After all, they are glad you are there. Serving you and people like you are the reason their businesses exist and finally, they want you to share the great news about your vacation with everyone you know (and don't know), to encourage new business.
• Houseboat rental operators want your business again. They would much rather treat you fairly and look forward to an ongoing rental relationship with you than have you as a one time customer. It just makes great business sense.
• On a closing note, it is not a bad idea to have an initial meeting with all the folks onboard before you embark on your trip just letting them know the relationship of renting someone else's property and the natural respect that comes with enjoying things that belong to someone else. With a little forethought and consideration, damage deposits will not be a problem on your houseboat rental vacation. So, have a super time!

Reminder: Be sure to share your vacation experience with us by taking our vacation survey. We would love to learn about your houseboat vacation firsthand!

The Houseboat Rental Center Resource Center