Dispute Resolution
Last Updated: October 7, 2025
Table of Contents
At StayLonger, we strive to facilitate positive experiences between hosts and guests. However, we understand that disputes can occasionally arise. This Dispute Resolution policy outlines the procedures for resolving conflicts fairly, efficiently, and transparently.
1. Introduction
This Dispute Resolution policy applies to all disputes between:
- Guests and Hosts
- Users and StayLonger
- Any combination of users regarding platform-related issues
This policy should be read in conjunction with our Terms of Service, Cancellation Policy, and Community Guidelines.
2. Communication-First Approach
We strongly encourage users to resolve disputes through direct communication before involving StayLonger's resolution services.
2.1 Steps for Direct Communication
- Contact the other party through the StayLonger messaging system
- Clearly describe the issue and what you're seeking to resolve
- Remain respectful, professional, and solution-focused
- Allow reasonable time for the other party to respond (24-48 hours)
- Try to reach a mutual agreement
2.2 Best Practices
- Address issues promptly: Don't wait until after check-out to raise concerns.
- Be specific: Clearly articulate the problem and provide details.
- Stay constructive: Focus on solutions rather than blame.
- Document everything: Keep records of all communications and evidence.
- Be reasonable: Consider the other party's perspective and be willing to compromise.
3. StayLonger Resolution Center
If you cannot resolve a dispute through direct communication, you may escalate the issue to StayLonger's Resolution Center.
3.1 When to Use the Resolution Center
Use the Resolution Center when:
- You've attempted to communicate directly without success
- The other party is unresponsive after 48 hours
- The dispute involves safety or security concerns
- You need assistance with refunds or payments
- You believe there has been a violation of our policies
3.2 How to Submit a Dispute
- Log in to your StayLonger account
- Navigate to "My Bookings" or "My Listings"
- Select the relevant booking
- Click "Resolution Center" or "Report an Issue"
- Choose the dispute type and describe the issue
- Upload supporting evidence (photos, messages, receipts)
- Submit your dispute request
Alternatively, email our support team at [email protected] with your booking reference number and detailed explanation.
3.3 Dispute Submission Deadlines
Disputes must be submitted within the following timeframes:
- Property condition issues: Within 24 hours of check-in
- Property damage claims: Within 14 days of check-out
- Payment disputes: Within 60 days of the charge
- Other disputes: Within 30 days of the incident or check-out date
Late submissions may not be eligible for resolution. Contact support immediately if you encounter any issues.
4. Common Dispute Types
4.1 Property Condition Disputes
Examples: Property doesn't match listing, cleanliness issues, missing amenities, safety hazards.
Resolution: StayLonger may offer partial refunds, alternative accommodations, or require the host to remedy the issue.
4.2 Damage Claims
Examples: Guest-caused damage to property, missing items, excessive cleaning required.
Resolution: StayLonger reviews evidence from both parties and may charge the guest for verified damages or deny unsubstantiated claims.
4.3 Cancellation Disputes
Examples: Disagreement about refund amounts, cancellation reasons, policy interpretation.
Resolution: StayLonger applies the applicable Cancellation Policy and reviews extenuating circumstances if applicable.
4.4 Payment Disputes
Examples: Unauthorized charges, incorrect amounts, refund processing issues.
Resolution: StayLonger investigates payment records, processes corrections, and issues refunds when appropriate.
4.5 Behavioral Disputes
Examples: Violations of house rules, noise complaints, disrespectful behavior.
Resolution: StayLonger reviews evidence, may issue warnings, and can suspend or terminate accounts for serious violations.
4.6 Review Disputes
Examples: False or defamatory reviews, retaliatory reviews, review guideline violations.
Resolution: StayLonger reviews the content against our review policies and may remove or modify reviews that violate guidelines.
5. Mediation Process
When a dispute is submitted to the Resolution Center, StayLonger's Trust and Safety team facilitates mediation between the parties.
5.1 Mediation Steps
- Case Review: Our team reviews the dispute submission and all provided evidence.
- Information Gathering: We may request additional information or documentation from both parties.
- Both Parties Notified: The other party is notified of the dispute and given an opportunity to respond (typically 48 hours).
- Evidence Evaluation: Our team evaluates all evidence objectively, including photos, messages, booking details, and any other relevant information.
- Proposed Resolution: We propose a fair resolution based on our policies and the evidence provided.
- Final Decision: If both parties agree, the resolution is implemented. If not, StayLonger makes a binding decision.
5.2 Neutral Mediation
StayLonger's mediation team is trained to remain neutral and objective. Our goal is to reach a fair outcome based on:
- Platform policies and guidelines
- Evidence provided by both parties
- Industry best practices
- Applicable laws and regulations
- Past precedents in similar cases
6. Resolution Timeline
We aim to resolve disputes as quickly as possible:
- Simple Disputes: Resolved within 3-5 business days
- Moderate Complexity: Resolved within 7-10 business days
- Complex Disputes: May take 14-21 business days or longer
Factors affecting resolution time include:
- Responsiveness of involved parties
- Availability and quality of evidence
- Complexity of the issue
- Need for expert evaluation or third-party input
- Legal or regulatory considerations
7. Evidence and Documentation
Strong evidence is critical to resolving disputes fairly. We recommend documenting issues thoroughly.
7.1 Acceptable Evidence
- Photos and Videos: Timestamped images or videos showing property condition, damage, or issues.
- Message History: Communications between host and guest through the StayLonger platform.
- Receipts and Invoices: Proof of expenses, repairs, or replacement costs.
- Third-Party Reports: Police reports, repair estimates, professional cleaning invoices.
- Listing Details: Screenshots of the original listing description, photos, and amenities.
- Timestamps: Dates and times of incidents, communications, or property condition.
7.2 Documentation Best Practices
- Take photos/videos immediately when issues arise
- Keep all communications on the StayLonger platform
- Save receipts for all relevant expenses
- Note dates, times, and specific details of incidents
- Gather witness statements if applicable
- Preserve original evidence (don't edit or alter)
8. Final Decisions
8.1 StayLonger's Authority
When parties cannot reach a mutual agreement, StayLonger has the authority to make binding decisions regarding:
- Refund amounts and payment adjustments
- Damage compensation
- Account suspensions or terminations
- Review removals or modifications
- Policy enforcement actions
8.2 Appeals
If you disagree with StayLonger's decision, you may request an appeal:
- Submit an appeal request within 14 days of the decision
- Provide new evidence or information not previously considered
- Explain why you believe the decision was incorrect
- Send your appeal to <a href='mailto:[email protected]' class='text-primary hover:underline'>[email protected]</a>
Appeals are reviewed by a different member of our team. Appeal decisions are final and binding.
8.3 Implementation of Decisions
Once a decision is final:
- Refunds are processed within 5-10 business days
- Charges are applied to the appropriate party's account
- Account actions (warnings, suspensions) take effect immediately
- Reviews are removed or modified as determined
- Both parties are notified of the outcome
9. Binding Arbitration
For disputes that cannot be resolved through StayLonger's Resolution Center, you agree to resolve the matter through binding arbitration rather than in court, except where prohibited by law.
9.1 Arbitration Agreement
By using StayLonger, you agree that:
- Disputes will be submitted to binding arbitration in accordance with the Australian Arbitration Rules
- The arbitration will take place in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- The arbitrator's decision will be final and binding
- Each party will bear their own costs and expenses
- The arbitration will be confidential
9.2 Exceptions to Arbitration
The following disputes are not subject to arbitration:
- Small claims court matters within jurisdictional limits
- Intellectual property disputes
- Injunctive relief for immediate harm
- Disputes where arbitration is prohibited by law
9.3 Class Action Waiver
You agree to resolve disputes on an individual basis and waive the right to participate in class actions, class arbitrations, or representative proceedings, except where such waivers are prohibited by law.
10. Your Legal Rights
Nothing in this Dispute Resolution policy limits your statutory rights under applicable consumer protection laws.
10.1 Australian Consumer Law
If you are an Australian consumer, you have rights under the Australian Consumer Law that cannot be excluded. These include:
- Right to a repair, replacement, or refund for major failures
- Right to compensation for damages and losses
- Right to cancel a service and obtain a refund in certain circumstances
For more information, visit the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) website: www.accc.gov.au/consumers
10.2 European Consumer Rights
For users in the European Economic Area, you have the right to access alternative dispute resolution through the European Commission's Online Dispute Resolution platform: ec.europa.eu/consumers/odr
10.3 Escalation to Authorities
If you believe you have been the victim of fraud, illegal activity, or serious misconduct, you have the right to contact:
- Local law enforcement
- Consumer protection agencies
- Financial ombudsman or banking authorities
- Data protection authorities (for privacy concerns)
Commitment to Fair Resolution: StayLonger is committed to providing a fair, transparent, and efficient dispute resolution process. We encourage open communication and good-faith efforts to resolve conflicts.
Need Help? Our support team is available to answer questions and guide you through the dispute resolution process. Contact us at [email protected].
This Dispute Resolution policy is part of our Terms of Service. For related policies, please see our Cancellation Policy and Community Guidelines.