Tahoe North Rentals – Guest FAQ

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Welcome to Tahoe North Rentals! Below you’ll find clear answers to our most frequently asked questions so you can feel fully prepared for your stay and understand the key terms of your rental agreement.

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Booking, Payment & Rental Agreement

  • How do I check into my rental?

    All homes use contact-free check-in directly at the property. Your unique access code and arrival instructions will be emailed or texted to you shortly before your arrival date.

  • Do I need to sign anything before arrival?

    Yes. You’ll receive a Rental Agreement along with a Guest & Vehicle Registration form. These must be completed and electronically signed before we release access instructions. If the agreement is not signed in a timely manner, we reserve the right to cancel the reservation.

  • When is my payment charged?

    Payment timing depends on the site youbook through. If you book directly with Tahoe North Rentals and we are the merchant of record, your card or bank account is typically charged 24–48 hours after the booking is accepted (different rules may apply to last-minute bookings). In some cases, payment plans can be arranged; please contact our office

  • Are early check-in or late check-out options available?

     Standard check-in is 4:00 PM, and check-out is 10:00 AM.

    • Codes will not be active before 4:00 PM on the arrival day.
    • Codes stop working at 10:00 AM on departure day.

     Requests for early arrival or late departure must be made 24–48 hours in advance and are subject to availability and possible additional fees.


  • What happens if I stay past check-out time?

    Unauthorized late departures (“holding over”) may be charged 150% of the daily prorated rent plus taxes, in addition to any operational impacts.

Cancellations & Travel Insurance

  • What is your cancellation policy for direct bookings?

    For direct bookings on TahoeNorthRentals.com:

    • 30+ days before arrival
    •  → Eligible for full refund of reservation costs (excluding Travel Protection Plan cost, if purchased).
    • 14–30 days before arrival
    •  → 50% refund of all reservation costs (excluding Travel Protection Plan cost).
    • 14 days or less before arrival
    •  → Nonrefundable. No refunds are available for cancellations made within 14 days of arrival.

    The cancellation policy disclosed at the time of booking is firm and non-negotiable.

  • Are refunds offered for weather, smoke, road closures, or personal issues?

    No. We do not offer refunds outside the stated policy for events such as:

    • Smoke or unhealthy air quality
    • Snowstorms, fires, floods, windstorms, or other weather events
    • COVID-19 or other pandemic mandates
    • Road closures or travel interruptions
    • Event cancellations (weddings, concerts, etc.)
    • Attraction closures (e.g., parks, beaches, restaurants)
    • Transportation delays or cancellations
    • Changes in personal health, finances, or travel plans
    • Reduced group size or a sole traveler situation
  • Should I buy the CSA Travel Protection Plan?

    Insurance is optional but strongly recommended. The CSA/Generali Travel Protection Plan may help protect your prepaid, non-refundable costs in cases such as illness, injury, certain travel delays, or other covered events. For full details, contact CSA directly at (866) 999-4018.


Note: Coverage, terms, and rates are subject to change. Refer to CSA/Generali’s current disclosures for the most accurate information.

Emergencies & Contact Information

  • What should I do in a rental emergency?

    For rental-related emergencies, call our office:

    (530) 546-4210 or (800) 585-3312

    Follow the phone prompts and leave a message if directed, our on-call staff will respond promptly. If the issue cannot be resolved by phone, a repair ticket will be opened.

  • What is considered a non-rental emergency?

    For medical, fire, or other life-threatening situations, please contact 9-1-1 immediately.

  • Is there a fee for lockouts?

    Yes. After-hours lockouts caused by lost or misplaced keys (where applicable) may incur a service fee.

Taxes, Ordinances & Occupancy

  • What taxes apply to my stay?

    All short-term vacation rentals are subject to Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) in Placer County and El Dorado County (according to where the property is located).

    Properties in Placer County may also be subject to a Tourism Business Improvement Tax. There is no additional sales tax or resort fee at this time. If a listing references a “Resort Fee,” it may represent one of these required taxes due to limitations on certain booking platforms.

  • What county rules do I need to follow?

    Each county has its own Short-Term Rental Ordinance, which covers:

    • Occupancy limits
    • Quiet hours
    • Parking rules

    Other neighborhood standards

    Guests are required to comply with the applicable ordinance for their rental property. Links and details are provided in your Rental Agreement.

  • What are the occupancy limits?

    You must not exceed the maximum occupancy stated on the listing and in your Rental Agreement. Exceeding occupancy during nighttime hours can result in immediate eviction and monetary penalties from the County.

    Occupancy definitions:

    Placer County

    • Occupancy = 2 people per bedroom + 2 additional people
    • “Adult” = anyone 12 years or older

    El Dorado County

    • Occupancy = 2 people per bedroom
    • “Adult” = anyone 6 years or older
    • Children 5 years and younger do not count against occupancy

    Owners may impose stricter limits than the county allows, regardless of guest ages.

  • Are parties or events allowed?

    No.

    • No large gatherings or parties
    • No business, private events, or functions are permitted at any time during your stay.

Amenities & Supplies

  • What amenities and supplies are provided?

    Most homes include:

    • Basic kitchen utensils and small appliances (varies by property; ask if you need something specific)
    • Bedding, blankets, pillows, linens
    • Starter supply of toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags
    • Dish soap, sponge, and dishwasher detergent (if applicable)
    • Laundry detergent (if a washer is available)
    • Hair dryer
    • Basic cleaning tools (mop, broom, vacuum, etc.)
    • Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (Ginger Lily Botanical Farms – organic, vegan, cruelty-free)
    • Hand soap
    • Snow shovels and ice melt (as needed)
    • Propane for gas grills (generally summer only)
  • What items are not guaranteed or typically supplied?

    Not necessarily provided:

    • Personal hygiene items (toothpaste, toothbrush, lotion, face wash, cotton pads/swabs, etc.)
    • Perishable condiments (mustard, mayo, ketchup, oils, spices, etc.)
    • Firewood for wood-burning fireplaces (purchase locally; do not bring from outside the area)
    • Coffee, sugar, tea, syrups, and other pantry items (may be present if left by prior guests or owners, but not guaranteed)
    • Kitchen extras like coffee filters, foil, plastic wrap, baggies, Tupperware, etc.
  • Do the homes have air conditioning or air purifiers?

    • Most Tahoe homes do NOT have air conditioning. If a home has A/C, it will be clearly listed in the amenities. Properties generally include window screens and fans to help create a cross-breeze.
    • Air purifiers are not supplied. If you need one for health or comfort, we recommend bringing your own.
  • Is beach or snow gear included?

    Typically no. Most homes do not include:

    • Beach chairs, umbrellas, beach towels, coolers, or sunscreen
    • Sleds, snowshoes, gloves/mittens, or other snow equipment

    If you have specific needs, please ask, and we’ll do our best to confirm what’s available at your chosen property.

Maintenance, Utilities & Complimentary Amenities

  • What if something breaks or doesn’t work during my stay?

    We inspect homes before arrival, but occasional issues can still arise (as in any home). If you cannot easily resolve the problem, contact our office. Repairs will start as soon as possible, and generally within two business days, unless you prefer we wait until after departure.

    No refunds are issued for maintenance issues.

  • What happens during a power outage?

    As a mountain region, Tahoe may experience unplanned or planned outages (e.g., fire prevention). If the power is off for more than 12 hours and you decide to leave early, you may submit a claim to your third-party Travel Protection Plan (if purchased). Tahoe North Rentals does not guarantee refunds for outages.


  • Are all amenities guaranteed (internet, hot tub, games, etc.)?

    Some amenities are considered complimentary and not guaranteed, including:

    • Cable/satellite TV
    • Internet service
    • Saunas
    • Bikes
    • Pool tables
    • Hot tubs
    • Grills
    • Board games, puzzles, and similar items

    If something is not working, please report it, and we will attempt repair as soon as reasonably possible. However, no financial reimbursement is offered for unavailable complimentary amenities.

Cleaning, Damages & Check-Out

  • Is cleaning included?

    Yes. A standard departure cleaning is required and included in your total booking cost. This fee is an estimate for normal use; excessive cleaning needs may result in additional charges.

    Cleaning does not include:

    • Removal of excessive trash that must be hauled off-site
    • Extra hot tub draining/sanitizing
    • Yard or deck cleanup beyond normal use

    Cleaning fees are subject to Transient Occupancy Tax.

  • What should I do before checking out?

    General closing instructions:

    • Wash dishes or load and run the dishwasher
    • Strip used beds
    • Pile used towels in bathrooms or laundry area
    • Remove all trash and leftover food from the home and place in the bear box or community dumpster
    • Do not leave trash in the garage
    • Turn off all lights
    • Close and lock all windows and doors
    • Close blinds/window coverings
    • Secure the property per instructions in the MINI App or house manual
  • What if there is damage or something is missing?

    The home is inspected before arrival and after departure.

    • If you notice existing damage or unsatisfactory cleaning, report it immediately on the first day (preferably with photos).
    • If damage occurs during your stay, report it at once.
    • Any new damages, missing inventory, or excessive cleaning needs discovered after check-out will be billed to the responsible guest.

Trash, Bear Boxes & Keeping Tahoe Clean

  • How should we handle trash and recycling?

    Tahoe is bear country, and proper trash handling is critical. Please:

    • Bag all trash and place it inside the bear box or community dumpster
    • Tie bags securely
    • Do not leave loose trash in bins
    • Flatten cardboard and crush recyclables
    • Do not overfill bins beyond the rim
    • Store overflow recycling/cardboard in the garage (if available) until pickup
    • Never leave trash or food outside

    If your trash doesn’t fit in the bear box at check-out, please pack it out or take it to the Eastern Regional Landfill (900 Cabin Creek Road, off Hwy 89 between Truckee and Olympic Valley).


  • Are there extra fees related to trash?

    Yes. For excessive trash or bins that require extra cleanup:

    • $80 per 40-gallon bag of excess trash
    • $100 for loose trash in the bin that must be bagged and hauled

Neighborhood, Wildlife & Safety

  • What should I know about local conditions (wildlife, weather, etc.)?

    Lake Tahoe is a mountain and forest environment. Guests should be prepared for:

    • Wildlife and insects (bears, coyotes, mountain lions, raccoons, wasps, rodents, etc.)
    • Variable weather (snow, ice, large temperature swings, roof snow slides)
    • Smoke or wildfires, especially in fire season
    • Road and construction delays
    • High-altitude conditions

    Take all reasonable precautions to protect yourself, your group, and your belongings. Owners and Agents are not responsible for injuries or damages caused by wildlife, insects, or environmental conditions.

    Special Note: Rodents and Mice (Summer 2025)

    There has been an increase in rodent activity (including mice) in the region. Although our properties receive recurring pest control service, occasional pests may still appear. Please report any sightings immediately so we can respond. We are unable to provide refunds for pest-related occurrences common in our rural environment.

  • Are there security cameras?

    Some homes may have exterior-only security cameras. This will be disclosed in the listing and Rental Agreement. There are no cameras in interior living spaces.

  • What is an electric bear deterrent system?

    Some homes may use electric deterrents around the property to help reduce bear activity. If present, instructions will be included with your check-in details. Always follow safety guidelines.

Smoking, Furnishings & Conduct

  • Is smoking allowed?

    No. Smoking of any kind is strictly prohibited inside the home and in all outdoor areas (driveways, decks, patios, yard, garage, etc.).

    If you arrive and see cigarette butts, report this immediately. If smoking is discovered during or after your stay, a minimum fine of $1,000 will be charged.

  • Can we move the furniture?

    Please do not move furniture. Indoor furniture must stay inside; outdoor furniture must stay outside. If we need to return moved pieces to their original positions, there is a minimum fee of $250.

  • Are parties or illegal activities allowed?

    No. Illegal activities of any kind are strictly forbidden, including:

    • Underage drinking
    • Vandalism
    • Illegal downloads or network use
    • Use/possession of banned substances

    Discovery of illegal activity may result in immediate removal from the property with no refund.

Liability, Entry & Lost Items

  • Who is responsible for the group’s behavior?

    The person who signs the Rental Agreement is responsible for all guests’ actions while on the property.

    Homeowners are not liable for accidents, injuries, or illnesses on the premises, nor for loss of personal items. By staying, guests accept the risks associated with the use of the home and any on-site or off-site recreational activities.

  • Can the owner or management enter the property during our stay?

    Yes, with reasonable notice, the Owner or Agent may enter to:

    • Verify compliance with the Rental Agreement
    • Perform necessary maintenance
    • Allow required county inspections
  • What if we lose keys or remotes?

    Any lost or unreturned keys or garage remotes will be replaced at the guest’s expense.

  • What if we forget something at the house?

    If you leave personal items behind, contact our office as soon as possible. We cannot guarantee retrieval, but if found, we can return items via mail for:

    • $40 for small/regular packages
    • $60 for large/oversized packages

    Payment is required before shipping.

Reserve Your Lake Tahoe Holiday Rental with Ease

Ready to plan your Lake Tahoe getaway? Whether you're curious about a specific home, looking for the perfect family-friendly rental, or seeking recommendations for seasonal adventures, Tahoe North Rentals is here to help. Our team offers prompt, friendly support and personalized guidance so you can book with confidence. From selecting the right property to helping you prepare for your trip, we make the process simple, stress-free, and enjoyable; ensuring your vacation starts off right from the moment you reach out.

Contact Us

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Email

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Phone

(800) 585-3312 Toll Free

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Office

5249 North Lake Blvd (Highway 28), Carnelian Bay, CA 96140

Tahoe NORTH Rentals Office,

Located Upstairs

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