Glossary

This Glossary is provided to help guests understand more about the rental of inns, resorts and vacation rentals. It is not comprehensive but serves as a primer for terms guests may encounter in renting specialty lodging. Not all terms apply to all properties or managers.

Alerting Device

Visual or tactile devices to alert a person who cannot hear to door knocks, telephone rings, fire alarms, etc
Origin: Hearing Loss Association of Canada

Availability Calendar

An online calendar which can be updated to allow renters see the dates open for a certain property (Room, Suite or Home).
See also: Common Calendar Origin: Industry

Certified Hearing Dog

A dog which has completed extensive training to alert its owner to a variety of sounds in different environments. These dogs are usually identified by a bright orange leash with black lettering.
Origin: Hearing Loss Association of Canada

Common Calendar

An online calendar which shows a list of available lodging units (room, suites or homes) in a specified Complex or destination; along with available dates. Usually a left hand menu list the units and a top menu shows days or weeks. Booked units are displayed so that a guest can determine which units are available and then make a selection. Available in virtually all lodging software and many lodging websites. Also called a Tape or Grid.
See also: Availability Calendar Origin: 1Industry

Damage Waiver

A fee paid by guests that covers a maximum amount of damages they may cause. It is paid in advance, is non-refundable and covers unintentional damage up to a certain threshold if reported to the owner or manager prior to departure. Does not cover intentional damage, excessive cleaning, charges due to guest failure to follow booking contract or amounts of the limit
Origin: Industry Link: VRIA.org

Per Person Pricing (PPP)

Often used for Vacation Rental homes, a pricing model where a minimum nightly rate is set for a property allowing a base or normal number of occupants. Guests pay an additional fee for each guest over the normal, up to a maximum number of guests allowed in the property. The additional fee is often much higher for unapproved guests.
See also: Dynamic Rates Origin: William May