Here are some answers to frequently asked questions by our potential guests. You will find more details in our Reservation Procedure and the Cottage Rental Agreement. We are always delighted to discuss the cottages with you and familiarize ourselves with your ‘wish list‘. Our job is to help you find the cottage most suitable to your needs. Give us a call or drop us a line!
1) How do I book a vacation cottage with Kennisis Cottage Rentals?
Simply select a cottage (or two) that appeals to you and refer to the online availability calendar to make sure the cottage is available for your preferred dates. Fill out the online registration form and we’ll respond within a day!
At time of booking, a 50% deposit is due, with the balance to be paid 30 days prior to arrival. Bookings made within 30 days will be due in full at time of booking.
2) Are there any additional charges?
Rental fees are subject to HST (13%) in addition to the listed rate. Guests will also be charged a non-refundable administration fee of $100 (plus HST) and the Accidental Damage Waiver fee of $99.12 (plus HST), made payable at the time of booking.
For rentals in Dysart et Al, a 2% MAT Tax is applied to the rental fee.
For rentals in Algonquin Highlands, Minden Hills and Highlands East, a 4% MAT tax is applied to the rental fee.
No pricey cleaning fees!Cleaning fees are only charged if the property is left a mess. All renters are expected to clean up after themselves and save the cleaning fee.
We do not charge cleaning fees, parking fees or other services fees you might find with online booking sites.
HST and MAT Tax does not apply to the rental fee for bookings over 28 days in length (long-term rentals).
Example:
Rental Fee: $2,000
HST on Rental Fee: $260
2% MAT Tax: $40
Admin Fee & Damage Waiver (tax included):$225
Total Charge: $2,525
3) Who cleans the cottage?
Upon departure, please ensure that the property is left in the condition you found it. This is the renter’s responsibility. Since you are expected to leave the cottage in good shape – and the cottages are rented clean – this means that you and/or your party must clean the cottage prior to your departure. Cleaning supplies and a cleaning checklist are provided. The cottage checkers will put the finishing touches on our guests’ efforts to ensure that everything is ready for the next guests.
4) How much is the security deposit and how soon is it returned?
In lieu of security deposits, Kennisis Cottage Rentals has opted for an Accidental Damage Waiver. The plan protects our renters in the event of accidental damages to the cottage/property while all registered guests occupy the property.
5) What are the accepted methods of Payment?
Cheques or e-transfers are accepted. For out of country guests, we suggest a bank wire.
6) How will I get the keys?
You will receive your Welcome package 2- 3 weeks before the beginning of your vacation which includes directions, map, a cottage information sheet and key access (instructions for finding the keys on the property or the lock box number, if applicable).
7) What is check-in time? What time is check-out?
Typically in the summer season, arrival time is 4:00 PM and departure time, 11:00 AM. (We can be more flexible in the off-season.) Some cottages have a slightly different changeover day, so be sure to double check the details for your particular cottage. These schedules are strictly enforced as it is essential we allow time for the cottage to be checked between guests.
8) What do I do with the garbage?
Garbage left behind is subject to additional charges. Detailed instructions are included in the Cottage Manual as to the disposal of garbage. Never leave food or garbage outside and avoid feeding the wildlife. Even a dirty BBQ grill can attract unwanted guests, such as bears.
9) What do I need to bring?
Towels and sheets are not provided. Pillows, blankets, comforter are provided as well as basic kitchen condiments (spices). All cottages are equipped with cooking utensils, dishware, microwave and coffeemaker, a fridge and oven. Extra amenities (such as a dishwasher) are listed under “Extras” in the Cottage Profile; if an item is not listed be sure to include it in your “packing for the cottage” list.
Life Jackets: Adult life jackets are supplied at some cottages as indicated on the Profile. If unsure ask. Many cottages provide 2 adult lifejackets. But we do recommend you bring your own, particularly for children for proper fitting. You must have a lifejacket for each person in the boat at all times, whether they are worn or not. A boat safety kit is required with your watercraft, which consists of a bailer, a 15 meter floating rope, a waterproof flashlight and a waterproof whistle and can be purchased at a marina or hardware store. Failure to leave the shore without the proper equipment could result in a fine.
Here is are some other needful things:
Drinking water: Check under the section called “Limitations” in your cottage’s profile on our website. Unless a cottage has tested well or ultra violet system, you will be advised to bring own drinking water. Many cottages have a water cooler which holds up to an 18L jug.
Linens and towels are not provided. Bring your sheets, pillowcases, sleeping bags, towels, and kitchen linens.
Cell phone service is available but can be spotty in cottage country. Each cottage has its best locations to obtain good service inside and outside.
Most owners try to provide soap for personal use, the dishes and the washing machine, but to be on the safe side, bring extra!
10) What about pets?
Dogs are only permitted on the property if they are clearly indicated on the booking application form and approved by the owner. The number of pets is restricted to one unless prior approval is obtained from the Cottage Owner. Additional fees may apply for multiple dogs. Do not leave your dog tied up or unattended. Pets in a strange place alone can wreak havoc and a barking dog will be reported. Respect your neighbour’s peace and privacy as they come to the lake for the same reason you do, to escape the noise and chaos of the city! As you would at home, obey the rules of poop & scoop. No traces of dog (pet hair etc) should be evident once you leave. And dogs must be kept off the furniture. No cats please. Bringing or allowing a pet at a no-pets cottage will result in immediate eviction and result in a non-negotiable penalty fee of $350.00 plus HST.
11) Does the cottage get television reception?
There is no cable TV in cottage country. If a cottage has a satellite dish, then you will have access to television programs. If there is not a satellite dish, the television can only be used for watching movies using the DVD or VCR player or online streaming services if the TV is connected to wifi. Some cottages have a DVD/VHS library, but you may want to bring your own. The occasional cottage has a Netflix subscription or may have hook-ups for computers and/or wii for the kids.
12) Can I hire a cleaning service?
A cleaning service can be hired for some of our cottages (with enough advance notice) but not all of them. If you would prefer to pay for someone to clean the cottage for you, call us and we’ll see what arrangements can be made.
13) Why is there a limitation on occupancy?
Cottage capacity, as posted on our website for your cottage, is determined by the bed arrangements, what the septic system can handle, wear and tear on the cottage and the owner’s wishes. This is strictly enforced. If your guest list should change, contact us immediately. We require the names and ages of all persons who will be using the property be indicated in writing in advance of your stay.
14) How can I ensure my activities do not stress the natural environment?
No bathing in the lake. Soaps and shampoos disturb our fragile eco-system. Use non-toxic cleaning products whenever possible. Also, please choose 1-ply toilet paper.
Never cut down live trees. Many owners provide firewood, and ‘deadfall’ is always in abundance. Firewood bundles can also be purchased at grocery stores.
Be sure to recycle! Landfills (open all but two days a week in the summer) provide the proper disposal areas for household garbage as well as paper and plastic. A cottage kit or landfill card comes with each cottage to be presented to the attendant with each dump visit.
The septic system is a very sensitive and integral part of cottage life. The basic rule is do not put anything down the toilet besides natural waste and toilet paper. No paper towels, Kleenex, disposable diapers, tampons, pads, etc., Even a toothpick can create havoc. Further, do not pour any grease-like substances down any sink or toilet as this can cause problems.
Stagger water use (ie showers, dishes and laundry should not be undertaken at the same time) to give the system time to replenish.
If you are launching your own boat, please be sure to wash the hull beforehand. We do not have zebra mussels in this lake and would like to keep it this way.
Your consideration and care is greatly appreciated!
