The security deposit is an essential part of the HomeExchange Collection guarantees, designed to protect both hosts and guests in case of damages during an exchange.
Here’s everything you need to know:
What is the security deposit?
The deposit is a security measure included with your HomeExchange Collection membership.
When you subscribe, you authorize HomeExchange to access a deposit amount of $2,500 USD for the duration of your membership.
No amount is charged upfront — it is simply a payment authorization, activated only if necessary.
👉 Important: HomeExchange will never ask you to pay a deposit outside of the platform.
Is the deposit automatically debited?
No.
When you complete your membership payment, you simply authorize HomeExchange to debit the deposit only if required, for example in the case of damages reported after an exchange.
If no issues are reported, the authorization is automatically released, and no debit is made.
No action is needed on your part.
Following your membership payment, you will receive an email confirmation.
Please note that this is not a subscription: it formalizes the deposit authorization only.
How does the deposit process work after an exchange?
1. After the exchange
Your host has 10 days after the end of the exchange to report any damages by clicking the "Keep the deposit" button in the exchange details.
If no damages are reported during this period, the deposit will be automatically released 10 days after the end of the exchange. However, the host also has the option to manually release the deposit earlier at any time, directly from the conversation thread.
2. Communication encouraged
Before any formal action, we highly recommend that the host and guest discuss the situation directly. Open communication often helps resolve issues quickly and amicably.
3. If the host requests to retain part or all of the deposit
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HomeExchange informs the guest of the request.
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The guest has 10 days to agree or disagree with the amount proposed.
4. If both parties agree
The agreed amount is debited from the guest’s account and transferred to the host.
The remaining authorized deposit is immediately released.
5. If no agreement is reached
If no agreement is found within 30 days after the exchange ends, HomeExchange will debit and temporarily hold the deposit until a resolution (negotiated or judicial) is reached.
Examples to make it clear:
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Example 1: Your exchange goes perfectly. The authorization is released automatically. No debit occurs.
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Example 2: You accidentally damage a table. The host requests $100 for repairs, and you agree. HomeExchange debits $100 and releases the rest of the deposit.
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Example 3: You dispute the amount requested by the host. After 30 days without an agreement, HomeExchange protects the deposit while awaiting resolution.
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Example 4: You break a glass and replace it with the host’s agreement. No debit is made, and the authorization is released.
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Example 5: You fail to follow cleaning instructions. The host requests $25. You agree, and this amount is debited from your account.
Important notes:
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Direct communication between hosts and guests is encouraged whenever possible.
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HomeExchange may request supporting documents if needed.
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Depreciation may apply depending on the nature and age of damaged items.
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The HomeExchange guarantees also provide additional coverage for major damages, beyond the deposit.
Security reminder:
HomeExchange will never request any deposit payment outside the platform.
If you ever have doubts, feel free to contact our team — we are always happy to assist you.