Listing Accuracy & Updates Policy

    Effective Date: February 6, 2025

    1. Overview

    Accurate listing information is essential for guest satisfaction and platform integrity. This Listing Accuracy & Updates Policy outlines the requirements for property owners to maintain accurate, current, and complete listing information on the HelotStays platform.

    2. Accuracy Requirements

    All listing information must be accurate and truthful. This includes:

    Property Description

    • Accurate property type (house, apartment, condo, etc.).
    • Correct number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and beds.
    • Accurate square footage or property size.
    • Truthful description of the property and its features.

    Sleeping Arrangements

    • Accurate bed types and sizes (king, queen, twin, sofa bed, etc.).
    • Correct number of guests each sleeping area can accommodate.
    • Clear description of shared vs. private sleeping spaces.

    Amenities

    • Only list amenities that are currently available and functional.
    • Accurate description of amenity features and any limitations.
    • Remove amenities that are temporarily or permanently unavailable.

    Location

    • Accurate property address and location.
    • Truthful description of the neighborhood and surroundings.
    • Disclosure of potential noise sources (airports, highways, nightlife).

    Photos

    • Current photos that accurately represent the property.
    • No misleading filters, angles, or photo editing that misrepresents the property.
    • Photos of actual spaces guests will have access to.
    • Clear indication if any photos show shared spaces.

    3. Required Disclosures

    Property owners must disclose:

    • Shared spaces or shared access with other guests or residents.
    • Surveillance devices (see Surveillance & Monitoring Policy).
    • Pets on the property or nearby.
    • Potential allergens.
    • Construction or renovation affecting the property.
    • Noise or disturbances (nearby businesses, events, etc.).
    • Access limitations (stairs, narrow doorways, parking restrictions).
    • Safety hazards (see Safety & Security Policy).

    4. Update Requirements

    Property owners must promptly update listing information when:

    • Amenities are added, removed, or become non-functional.
    • Renovations or changes are made to the property.
    • Sleeping arrangements change.
    • House rules are modified.
    • Check-in or check-out procedures change.
    • Accessibility features change.
    • Any other material information changes.

    Notification to HelotStays

    For significant changes, notify HelotStays in addition to updating the listing. Significant changes include renovations, change in property type, loss of amenities, or anything that may affect existing bookings.

    5. Photo Standards

    • Use high-quality, well-lit photos.
    • Include photos of all main spaces (bedrooms, bathrooms, living areas, kitchen).
    • Update photos when significant changes are made.
    • Do not use photos from other properties or stock images.
    • Clearly label outdoor spaces, views, or shared areas.

    6. Prohibited Practices

    The following listing practices are prohibited:

    • Listing non-existent or unavailable properties (bait-and-switch).
    • Misrepresenting property type, size, or location.
    • Using photos that do not accurately represent the current property.
    • Claiming amenities that are not available.
    • Hiding or failing to disclose material information.
    • Creating duplicate listings for the same property.
    • Misrepresenting the relationship between the listing and the actual property.

    7. Consequences of Inaccurate Listings

    Inaccurate or misleading listings may result in:

    • Guest refunds at the owner's expense.
    • Negative reviews affecting listing performance.
    • Listing suspension pending corrections.
    • Permanent removal from the platform for repeated violations.
    • Financial liability for guest relocation or compensation.

    8. Guest Complaints About Accuracy

    If a guest reports that a property does not match the listing description, HelotStays will investigate. If the complaint is substantiated:

    • The guest may receive a partial or full refund.
    • The owner may be required to correct the listing immediately.
    • The listing may be suspended until corrections are verified.

    9. HelotStays Verification

    HelotStays may verify listing accuracy through guest feedback, property inspections, or other means. We reserve the right to update or correct listing information based on our findings.

    10. Contact Information

    For questions about this policy or to report an inaccurate listing, please contact us through the contact form on our website.