The Cotswold Barn – Guest Policy & House Rules

Welcome to The Cotswold Barn. We are delighted to host you and hope you have a truly memorable and relaxing stay. To help ensure that all guests continue to enjoy this unique space, we kindly ask that you familiarise yourself with the following House Rules.

These House Rules form part of your booking contract and are a condition of your stay. They apply to all bookings, whether made directly or through an authorised agent, and are to be read in conjunction with our Booking Terms and Conditions. Please note, failure to abide by any of these rules may result in additional fees.

Guest Numbers & Access

• The property accommodates a maximum of 8 guests plus 2 infants.
• No additional overnight guests or daytime visitors are permitted without prior written consent.
• For safety, insurance, and security reasons, unregistered guests are strictly not allowed on the premises at any time.

Arrival & Departure

• Check-in: From 3:00 PM
• Check-out: By 10:00 AM
• Early check-in or late check-out may be available by prior written agreement and may incur an additional charge.
• Unauthorised late check-out will be charged at £50 per hour (or part thereof).

Key Collection

• Keys are located in a secure key safe to the right of the front door.
• A unique access code will be emailed to your nominated address shortly before your arrival.

Security Deposit & Damage Policy

• A security deposit is held to cover any damage, missing items, unauthorised use, or breaches of these House Rules and Booking Terms.
• You will be notified of any deductions with accompanying evidence.
• If damage, loss, or cleaning costs exceed the value of the deposit, we reserve the right to pursue the additional amount, and by booking, you accept this responsibility.
• Charges may include:
• Stains on rugs, upholstery, or soft furnishings
• Damage to floors, walls, surfaces, or fixtures
• Excessive cleaning
• Missing or broken items
• Lost keys
• Unauthorised guests or pets
• Use of prohibited items or fire hazards

Check-Out Procedure

• Please ensure the following before departure:
• Rubbish is taken to the appropriate outdoor bins
• The dishwasher is loaded and run
• The property is left clean and tidy, in the condition it was found.
• All windows are closed, lights turned off, and doors locked
• Keys are returned to the key safe
• BBQs (if used) must be cleaned. Do not leave washing up in the sink.

Fire Safety

• No candles, incense, open flames, or fireworks are permitted at the property.
• Fires must be fully extinguished before going to bed or leaving the building.
• Do not remove ashes from the fireplace or BBQ—our team will handle this.
• Only use the logs and kindling provided—never accelerants or external fuels.
• BBQs must not be used under cover or near the building, and must not be left unattended.
• Do not place fire tools or companion sets on counters, as they may stain or rust.

Safety Equipment: The property is equipped with smoke alarms, a fire blanket, and a fire extinguisher. Please familiarise yourself with their locations upon arrival.

Respect for Materials & Surfaces

This home is finished with heritage materials such as stone floors, timber, and natural textiles. Please take extra care:

• Remove muddy or wet shoes before entering the property.
• Do not use foot creams, oils, fake tan, hair dye, or greasy products near soft furnishings or stone floors.
• Do not use bath bombs, bath oils, or dyed products in the bathtubs.
• Do not place hot pans, fire tools, or wet items on wooden or stone surfaces.
• Use only the provided cleaning products—other products may damage finishes.
• Please do not eat or drink on any upholstered furniture.

Septic Tank Use

• Only toilet paper may be flushed down the toilets.
• No wipes (even 'flushable'), sanitary products, cotton pads, kitchen roll, or nappies.
• Please use the appropriate bins provided for all other waste.

Linen, Towels & Laundry

• Bed linen, towels, tea towels, oven mitts, and bath mats are provided.
• Please avoid staining and report any damage promptly.
• A washer-dryer is available for guest use.
• Charges may apply for lost, damaged, or excessively soiled items.

Bathroom & Drain Care

• Please do not pour grease, solids, or anything other than water and mild soap down any drain.
• Do not use bath products that could stain or clog the plumbing, especially in stone or freestanding tubs.

Wi-Fi

• Wi-Fi is provided for recreational use. While generally reliable, speeds may vary due to our rural location.

Smoking, Vaping & Scented Products

• Smoking and vaping are not permitted anywhere on the property, including outdoor areas.
• Incense, scented candles, and oil diffusers are not allowed indoors.
• Breaches may result in cleaning fees or immediate termination of your stay.

Electric Vehicle Charging

• EV charging is only allowed where explicitly stated and pre-authorised.
• Charging from domestic sockets is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
• Unauthorised charging will incur the full advertised commercial rate plus an administrative fee.

Pets

• Pets are welcome only if agreed in writing prior to booking.
• They must never be left unattended in the property.
• Pets are not allowed on beds or furniture.
• Please clean up after your pet inside and outside.
• Any damage or extra cleaning will be charged.
• Unapproved pets may result in additional fees or booking termination.

Furniture, Fixtures & Décor

• Furniture and décor must not be moved or rearranged.
• Do not use indoor furniture outdoors, or outdoor furniture indoors.
• Use coasters and mats to protect all surfaces.
• Do not use decorative throws or cushions for sleeping, pet bedding, or outdoor use.

Outdoor Furniture & Weather Care

• If rain is forecast or overnight, please return outdoor cushions to the cushion store or bring them inside.

Energy Efficiency

• Please help us reduce environmental impact:
• Turn off lights, appliances, and heating when not in use
• Close windows when heating is on
• Ensure windows and doors are shut when leaving the property

Cots & High Chairs

• Available on request and conform to EU safety standards.
• Guests must provide their own bedding for cots.

Waste & Recycling

• Please separate general waste from recycling using the provided bins.
• Glitter, confetti, powder-filled balloons or similar products are not permitted.

Wall Care & Artworks

• Do not use tape, Blu Tack, pins, or adhesive hooks on walls or furniture.
• Avoid leaning or placing items against walls or artwork.

Right of Entry

• The Owner or their representatives reserve the right to enter the property at any time with reasonable notice, or without notice in an emergency or in the event of suspected rule breaches.

Security & Monitoring

• For your safety and the protection of the property, external CCTV cameras may be in use at entry points.
• These do not record any interior spaces and are used solely for security and compliance with guest occupancy and safety policies.

Support & Emergencies

• Non-urgent issues are addressed during office hours.
• For urgent matters such as loss of power, heating, water, or lockouts, out-of-hours support is available. Emergency contact details are included in the welcome pack.

Complaints & Feedback

• If anything is not right, please report it promptly during your stay. We’ll do everything we can to resolve it.
• Complaints raised after departure without prior notice may not be eligible for compensation.
• Unresolved complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of departure.

Thank You

We appreciate you taking the time to read and follow these House Rules. Your care helps us keep The Cotswold Barn in excellent condition for all guests. We carry out walk-through videos before and after each stay for your peace of mind and ours.

If you're planning to bring large or unusual items (e.g. equipment, decorations, or props), please contact us in advance.

We look forward to welcoming you and wish you a peaceful, comfortable, and memorable stay in the Cotswolds.

11 October 2025