7 steps to renting your cottage

1. Check the legal and administrative requirements

Before putting your cottage up for rent, check the tourism accommodation requirements in your municipality. You’ll need to get a municipal certificate of compliance in order to obtain a CITQ classification certificate, which is required for all paid rentals under 31 days. Your cottage will be assessed and rated on a scale of 0 to 5 stars, based on the following criteria:

• General quality (building and furnishings)
• Cleanliness
• Condition of the premises and equipment
• Services available
• Sustainable tourism features

2. Notify your insurer

Some insurers accept tourist rentals and others don’t. Each one has its own conditions. Some coverages like theft and vandalism may not be available for damage perpetrated by renters. As for prices, they vary. Some insurers will adjust your cottage coverage for free, while others will increase your premium.

3. Set the price

Look at similar rental properties and cottages in your area before setting the price. If you go too high, you could drive away potential customers. Too low and you run the risk of signaling that your property is in poor condition or the site isn’t up to scratch. Set high and low season rates from the outset and post them clearly.

4. Advertise

Let as many people as possible know that your cottage is available for rent. Use online rental sites like Airbnb, RSVPchalets, Chalets au Québec, WeChalet, and so on. Some are free while others charge a fee. Paid sites vary in terms of cost and the services they provide, so you need to do your homework.

Write an attractive description. Emphasize the highlights—e.g., the breathtaking view, access to a lake or river, or proximity to a ski hill—and post attractive photos of the interior and exterior of your cottage in all 4 seasons. List the services and equipment included, such as coffee makers, hot tub, BBQ, air conditioning, Internet, gaming consoles, watersports equipment, pool or foosball table, board games, boot dryer, etc.

5. Draft a rental agreement

The more detailed your agreement is, the better protected you’ll be and the more secure your guests will feel. Make sure your contract includes:

• Complete contact information for you and the renter
• Cost (deposit, rental fee, taxes)
• Length of stay
• Arrival and departure times
• Maximum number of guests
• What’s included and what isn’t (bedding, firewood, sports equipment, lake access, etc.)
• Cancellation conditions
• Requirements (e.g. liability insurance, curfew, etc.)

Worried you’re forgetting something? Ask for help from CAA-Quebec’s Residential Advisory Services. It’s free for members.

When your guests arrive, show them around the cottage (or get someone you trust to do it for you) and explain how the various equipment works. Don’t hesitate to post explanations on the walls. It’s also a good idea to have a welcome booklet with important information, emergency contact information, and reminders.

6. Store your valuables and personal belongings in a locked area

Keep a room or a large closet under lock and key for fragile belongings, valuables (even sentimental ones), and any clothes or personal products you wish to leave on site. Your daughter doesn’t want strangers using her favourite blanket? Worried about someone breaking your nice wine glasses or favourite coffee mug? Keep them in storage when you’re not at the cottage.

Of course, it’s important to leave the basic necessities so guests can enjoy their stay according to the terms of the rental agreement.

7. Properly maintain your cottage

Clean the cottage, towels, and bedding after each set of guests. Make sure there’s enough toilet paper and paper towels and check that you have enough place settings for the maximum number of guests. Utensils and glasses can get lost or broken and it’s important to replace them. You also need to leave cleaning products for the guests. Don’t have time for all that work? To avoid losing rentals or worse, seeing your rating nosedive due to negative reviews, hire someone you trust or a housekeeping company that works in the area. If you notice damage, fix it or have it repaired quickly. You can always use CAA-Quebec’s Approved Suppliers to get the job done right.

And don’t forget to book some time for you to enjoy your cottage, too. A cozy, attractive, and affordable property in a charming setting will attract plenty of guests!