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What is a House Manual?
A house manual is a comprehensive document that provides guests with essential information about a vacation rental property. It typically includes instructions for appliances and electronics, Wi-Fi login details, safety information, and check-out procedures.
The goal is to answer common guest questions, reduce the need for constant host-guest communication, and enhance the overall guest experience. A house manual can be a physical binder left in the property or a digital document sent to guests electronically.
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How it works
Hosts compile all relevant information about their property into a single, easy-to-digest format. This includes practical instructions, such as how to operate the smart TV or thermostat, alongside safety guidelines like the location of the fire extinguisher and property rules regarding quiet hours.
The manual is then made accessible to guests, often sent automatically before check-in as a digital file or link. Vacation rental software like Lodgify can automate the delivery of the digital house manual as part of a pre-arrival message sequence. Alternatively, a physical binder can be left in a prominent location for easy reference throughout the stay.
Why it matters
A well-crafted house manual significantly improves guest satisfaction by setting clear expectations and providing helpful guidance, which can lead to better reviews. It saves hosts valuable time by preemptively answering frequently asked questions, reducing the volume of calls and messages.
By clearly outlining rules and procedures, it also helps protect the property and ensures a smoother operational workflow for turnovers.
Examples
- A guest at a ski chalet finds the house manual and uses the detailed instructions to operate the private hot tub and fireplace, avoiding a late-night call to the host.
- A family staying in a beach house refers to the house manual to find the Wi-Fi password, the schedule for trash and recycling pickup, and the code for the garage where beach chairs are stored.
- A host includes a 'Troubleshooting' section in their digital house manual for the smart TV, which helps a guest quickly resolve a connection issue without needing to contact support.
- Upon check-in, a guest receives an automated email containing a link to the digital house manual, which they review on their phone to find recommendations for nearby grocery stores and the property's parking policy.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a house manual and house rules?+
Should my house manual be digital or physical?+
What are the most important things to include in a house manual?+
How long should a house manual be?+
Related terms
House Rules
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Digital Guidebook
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Check-in
Check-in is the process by which a guest arrives at a vacation rental and gains access to the property at the start of their reservation. It's a foundational…
Welcome Basket
A welcome basket is a curated collection of items provided by a host to greet guests upon arrival at a vacation rental. This thoughtful gesture is designed to…