SML Vacation Rentals Policies
Cancellation Policy:
All canceled reservations are subject to a $100 cancellation fee plus applicable taxes. All cancellations must be received in writing, and email is acceptable. If a reservation is canceled with at least 90 days’ notice prior to arrival, payments made will be refunded minus the cancellation fee. Cancellations received with fewer than 90 days’ notice are non-refundable unless the dwelling is re-rented for the same dates and rate. Every effort will be made to re-rent the home; however, if the home does not re-rent, all monies received will be forfeited. Once re-rented, payments received, less the cancellation fee, will be refunded.
Nonpayment of required deposits or balances may result in reservation cancellation.
Reservations made through third-party booking platforms may also be subject to that platform’s cancellation policies. Regardless of booking method, Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC’s cancellation terms apply.
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Reservations:
Rental rates and availability are subject to change without notice. All reservations are subject to a 5.3 percent Virginia sales tax and a 7 percent county lodging tax.
Cleaning fees vary by home based on size and layout. Pet fees vary by pet-friendly property.
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Most summer rentals are Saturday-to-Saturday during peak season. In the spring, fall, and winter seasons, shorter stays are permitted in many homes, subject to minimum night requirements. Holiday stays typically require three or more nights, depending on the property.
Off-season longer-term rentals of three to six months may be available in select homes during fall and winter. Please contact our office for details.
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You must be 25 years of age or older to make a reservation, and the leaseholder must occupy the property for the entire duration of the stay. Non-chaperoned groups are not permitted. Any group that misrepresents itself may be required to vacate immediately without refund.
Once a reservation is made and payment is processed, the reservation becomes legal and binding and is subject to the cancellation policy. Upon confirmation, the Rental Agreement and Terms and Conditions will be sent by email and must be completed to secure the reservation.
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If the home becomes unavailable due to circumstances beyond our control, Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC reserves the right to substitute comparable accommodations.
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Discounts, including military discounts, are available on select properties and must be booked directly through Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC; discounts do not apply to reservations made through third-party booking platforms.
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Occupancy:
The maximum number of occupants permitted in a vacation home is listed in the Rental Agreement and online listing. Occupancy limits are determined by Bedford County and Franklin County regulations and are based on septic capacity. Anyone over the age of two is considered an occupant. Any party exceeding the stated occupancy may be required to vacate without refund.
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Payment:
One-half of the total reservation amount is due at the time of booking. The remaining balance must be paid in full 30 days prior to arrival. Accepted forms of payment include Visa, MasterCard, Discover, personal checks, and money orders. A $50 fee will be charged for returned checks. Failure to remit final payment by the due date may result in cancellation under the cancellation policy.
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Non-Availability Procedures:
Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC makes every effort to ensure the availability of your selected home. If the home becomes unavailable due to circumstances beyond our control, we reserve the right to transfer the reservation to comparable accommodations.
Descriptions, rates, photos, and property amenities listed on our website, Rental Agreement, or marketing materials are subject to change without notice. Omissions, additions, errors, or changes to furnishings, bedding, equipment, or décor may occur, and no refunds will be issued for such changes.
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Damage Fee:
A mandatory non-refundable damage fee applies to all reservations and covers accidental damage up to $1,000, excluding pet-related damage. Guests are responsible for all damages exceeding this amount, as well as missing items, excessive cleaning, moved furniture, late check-out, trash left behind, or violations of house policies. Guests are asked to inspect the home upon arrival and report any concerns promptly.
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Arrival at the Home:
Every effort is made to ensure the home is properly prepared for your arrival. If you find anything that needs attention, please notify our office promptly upon arrival so we have the opportunity to address the issue during your stay. Issues reported after departure may not be eligible for resolution.
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Parking:
Parking is permitted only in designated driveways or approved areas. Parking on grass, roadways, or adjacent properties is prohibited. Campers, RVs, and trailers are not permitted unless specifically authorized. Boat trailer parking is not allowed unless stated in the listing. ATVs and golf carts are not permitted without prior written approval.
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Smoking:
All homes are smoke-free. Smoking or vaping is prohibited inside the home and in any area where smoke may enter through doors or windows. Smoking is permitted only outdoors away from the home, and all smoking materials must be properly disposed of. Violations may result in additional cleaning or remediation charges and possible eviction.
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Pets:
Dogs are the only pets permitted and are allowed only in homes designated as pet-friendly with a paid pet fee. Pets must be current on flea and tick preventative treatment and remain under control at all times. Pets may not be left unattended. Guests are fully responsible for all pet-related damage and cleanup.
Unauthorized pets or pets brought into non-pet-friendly homes may result in additional charges as outlined in the Rental Agreement.
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Accommodations:
All homes are individually owned and furnished to the owner’s preference. While we strive to keep photos and descriptions accurate, changes to furnishings, décor, bedding, or equipment may occur. Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC is not responsible for such changes, and no refunds will be issued.
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Internet, Cable, and Satellite TV:
Internet, cable, or satellite service may be provided at some homes and is not guaranteed. Interruptions may occur, and no refunds will be issued due to service outages or connectivity issues.
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Grills:
Most homes offer a gas grill unless otherwise stated. Some associations prohibit grill use. Propane tanks are filled at the beginning of the season; however, refilling during your stay is the guest’s responsibility. Receipts may be submitted for reimbursement when applicable. Please clean grills after use. Grills left excessively dirty may result in an additional cleaning charge.
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Swimming Pools and Community Amenities:
Some homes provide access to community pools, tennis courts, or other shared amenities. These amenities are maintained by the community, not the homeowner or Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC. Access, condition, and availability are not guaranteed, and no refunds will be issued for closures or restrictions.
Homes with private pools or hot tubs are professionally maintained. Guests may not alter pool or hot tub settings, chemicals, or temperature.
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Repairs and Maintenance:
Homes are well maintained, but unexpected issues may occur. Please report non-emergency maintenance concerns during office hours. We will make reasonable efforts to address issues promptly. Refunds will not be issued due to equipment malfunction, utility interruption, weather conditions, or guest dissatisfaction. Service calls resulting from tenant misuse may be billed to the guest. Authorized agents may enter the property during reasonable hours to perform maintenance or repairs.
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Docks and Slips:
Most homes are waterfront and offer a dock or guest slip unless otherwise stated. Dock configuration and capacity vary by home. Water levels fluctuate due to weather and dam operations controlled by American Electric Power and may affect dock or slip use. No refunds will be issued due to water conditions.
Boat lifts are for owner use only and may not be operated by guests. Owner boats may be present in lifts and are not available for guest use. Operation of electric lifts is strictly prohibited. Damage resulting from unauthorized dock or lift use is the renter’s responsibility. Dock electricity and lighting are not guaranteed.
Military Discount:
Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC is proud to offer a military discount as a thank-you for your service. To receive this discount, please contact our office directly by phone or email so our team can assist with your reservation and apply the discount where available.
Military discounts apply to full-week reservations only and vary by property. Discounts are offered on a limited basis and are subject to availability. Military discounts do not apply to reservations made through third-party booking platforms.
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Email: reservations@smithmountainlakerentals.com
Phone: 540-297-3555
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We sincerely appreciate your service and look forward to welcoming you to Smith Mountain Lake for a well-deserved getaway.
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Thank you for choosing Smith Mountain Lake Vacation Rentals LLC. We appreciate the opportunity to host you and hope you enjoy your time at the lake.