Renting a Cottage- FAQs

Thank you for choosing Cottage Life Rentals to search for your perfect cottage rental property.

Cottage Lister - a cottage owner who rents out their property

Cottage Renter - someone who pays to rent a cottage from a Cottage Lister

Renting a cottage can be a wonderful vacation that can be close to home, or clear across the country. Many families find it an affordable way to share accommodation while enjoying the great outdoors. Renting a cottage, chalet, or cabin is different from staying at a resort. It's important that you know what to expect, so consider these questions when searching for the perfect vacation rental.

1. How many people will the cottage sleep? Find out exactly how many bedrooms and beds are included, and if pull-out sofas or daybeds are included in the total count. Does the total include a bunkie, sleeping cabin, or other outbuilding?

2. Maximum occupancy - some cottage owners need to restrict the total number of people using the property. This could be due to septic system capacity, or simply because they don't want their cottage to be overtaxed by too many bodies. Be clear about the maximum occupancy before you book.

3. What is the policy on pets? Even though you are in cottage country, it's important not to let your pets run wild. Keep your pet safe from the wildlife, and keep neighbouring cottages safe from your pet!

4. Linens, condiments, water - what do you need to bring? Some rentals include all linens. Others expect that you bring your own. Ask how the kitchen is stocked. Do they supply drinking water, or do you need to bring in your own.

5. Plumbing - indoors or out? While most cottages have indoor plumbing, some may not have a bathtub. Be aware that water use could be restricted so ask about what to expect when it comes to hot water supply, bathtubs, and toilets.

6. Conveniences of home. While some people choose a cottage vacation to get away from it all, others need to stay connected with life back home. Ask the property owner about cellular phone reception, land line telephone availability, internet access, and TV reception. Rainy days can be long, so inquire if a TV/DVD or video entertainment system is part of the amenities.

7. Are any boats included? Many rentals include a canoe or kayak, but motorized boats are not typically included.

8. Is it a property that is friendly to young children, toddlers, and babies? The last thing you want to spend your vacation doing is chasing after your kids and making sure they don't fall off a cliff! Some properties are not well suited to the little ones.

9. How far is it to the nearest town, hospital, grocery store, or Tim Hortons?

10. Is the owner nearby in case of emergency or maintenance issues?

11. Waterfront access. Lakefront vacation properties can have a huge range of waterfronts, so ask these questions:
• Is it a sandy beach, level access?
• Is it a dock with a deep drop-off into the water?
• Is it on the same level as the cottage, or down a set of steps?

Do I need to pay to use your site?
No. Cottage Life Rentals is a free search tool for Renters.

Are there any tools for Renters on Cottage Life Rentals?
Yes. When viewing cottage listings you have the option to email to a friend, post to Facebook, Twitter or other social networking sites, print or PDF the listing. Also, previously viewed cottage listings will be saved in your Bookmarked Cottages under the “Cottages for Rent” tab.

When should I try to book a cottage?
Like any desirable vacation property, the best ones are booked fast. You should start looking in the winter to secure a prime summer week.


Is Cottage Life Rentals a property management company?
No. Cottage Life Rentals is an advertising medium for Cottage Listers to connect with Cottage Renters. As a Cottage Renter, you contact the Cottage Lister directly and work out the terms of your rental agreement. We do not get involved in deposits, contracts, or screening potential renters.

How do I get in touch with a Cottage Lister?
To inquire about a specific listing you can click on “Contact Owner” which will send an email directly to the Lister. The Lister can then reply directly to your email.

Other information about Cottage Life Rentals

Currency
All rates shown are in Canadian dollars.

Deposits/Security Deposit
It is in your best interest to secure a rental reservation with a deposit. Deposits and security deposits are not managed by Cottage Life Rentals. The terms on a deposit is managed between the Cottage Lister and the Cottage Renter.

Questions?
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(416) 599-2000 ext. 231

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Click here to start searching for your perfect cottage rental property today.