Short-Term Rental Agreement

Last Updated: February 2025

This Short-Term Rental Agreement (“Agreement”) is made between the property owner/manager (“Owner”) of White Magnolia Galveston and the guest (“Guest”) who books and occupies the property. By completing a reservation and/or accessing the property, Guest agrees to all terms in this Agreement.

1. Property & Parties

The property covered by this Agreement is a private short-term vacation rental known as White Magnolia Galveston, located in Galveston, Texas (exact address provided after booking). “Guest” includes the primary renter and all members of the Guest’s party or invitees.

2. Reservation, Payments & Fees

All reservations must be made by a Guest who is at least 25 years old.
Payment schedule, rates, and cleaning fees are displayed at the time of booking.
Payment is processed through Lodgify, Stripe, or integrated booking channels.
Guest is responsible for reviewing the cancellation and payment terms before booking.

This Agreement works together with our posted Terms & Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Cookie Policy.

3. Security Deposit & Damage Responsibility

A refundable security deposit may be authorized or charged, depending on the booking channel.
Guest is financially responsible for any damage, excessive wear, missing items, or extra cleaning required beyond normal use.
Owner may charge the card on file or withhold from the security deposit for:
- Broken or damaged furniture, décor, or fixtures
- Stained or ruined linens, towels, or bedding
- Excessive trash, mess, or spills requiring extra cleaning
- Smoking violations or unauthorized pets
- Tampering with Wi-Fi, security cameras, or safety equipment
Owner will reasonably document and communicate damages before charging when possible.

4. Occupancy & Guest Information

Maximum occupancy is 10 guests unless otherwise agreed in writing.
The primary Guest must provide accurate contact details and guest count.
Subletting, assigning, or allowing unregistered overnight guests is not permitted.

5. House Rules

Guest agrees to follow all house rules provided before or during the stay. Key rules include, but are not limited to:

5.1 No Smoking or Vaping Indoors

Smoking or vaping of any substance is strictly prohibited inside the home. A minimum $350 cleaning and deodorizing fee may be charged for violations.

5.2 No Parties or Unauthorized Events

Large parties, events, or gatherings beyond the approved guest count are not allowed. Quiet hours are typically 10:00 PM – 8:00 AM and must be respected in accordance with Galveston noise ordinances.

5.3 Pets

Pets are allowed only if explicitly approved in writing before arrival. Unauthorized pets may result in additional cleaning and damage fees.

5.4 Care of Property

Furniture must not be moved outside or rearranged in a way that causes damage.
Makeup, self-tanner, and hair-dye should not be used with white towels or bedding.
Outdoor areas should be used respectfully; trash must be placed in designated bins.

6. Check-In, Check-Out & Access

Check-in: typically 4:00 PM (or as stated in your confirmation).
Check-out: typically 10:00 AM (or as stated in your confirmation).
Early check-in or late checkout may be available by request and subject to availability and additional fees.
Keys, lockbox codes, or smart lock instructions will be provided before arrival and must not be shared with non-guests.

7. Use of Premises

The property is to be used for short-term vacation lodging only, not as a primary residence.
No illegal activity, commercial filming (unless approved), or hazardous use is permitted.
Guest agrees to supervise children at all times in and around stairs, showers, outdoor areas, and any potentially hazardous features.

8. Safety, Security & Cameras

The property may have exterior-only security cameras for safety and property protection.
No cameras are installed inside the home.
Guest agrees not to cover, disable, or tamper with cameras, internet equipment, smoke detectors, or other safety devices.

9. Cleaning Standards

A standard cleaning fee is included in your reservation to cover normal usage. Additional charges may apply if:

Trash is left throughout the property or outdoor spaces.
Excessive spills, stains, or food waste require deep cleaning.
Glitter, confetti, or party décor cause additional labor.

10. Assumption of Risk & Liability Waiver

Guest understands that use of the property, including stairs, showers, outdoor spaces, and nearby public areas, carries inherent risks. By booking and occupying the property, Guest:

Assumes all risks of injury or loss to themselves and their party.
Agrees to supervise children and vulnerable individuals at all times.
Agrees that Owner is not responsible for accidents, injuries, illness, theft, or loss of personal property occurring during the stay, to the fullest extent permitted by law.

11. No Tenancy Created

This Agreement does not create a long-term tenancy or landlord–tenant relationship. It is a short-term, revocable license to occupy the property for the dates of your reservation only.

12. Cancellations, Interruptions & Force Majeure

Cancellations are governed by the policy selected at the time of booking. No refunds are guaranteed for weather events, beach conditions, construction noise, or cancellation of local events. In rare cases where the property becomes unavailable due to events beyond Owner’s control (e.g., major damage, utility failure), Owner may:

Offer to move or reschedule the stay, or
Provide a refund of unused nights as Owner’s sole obligation.

13. Governing Law

This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Texas. Any disputes arising under this Agreement shall be resolved in the appropriate courts located in or serving Galveston County, Texas.

14. Electronic Acceptance

By checking any “I agree” box, submitting a reservation through our website or booking platforms, or occupying the property, Guest acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to this Short-Term Rental Agreement, as well as our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy.

If you have questions about this Agreement before your stay, please contact us at [email protected].