What happens in case of cancellation? (for the guest)

Updated on 08/25/2026

An unforeseen event, a change of plans, or the host can no longer host you? A cancellation is always possible on Roomlala. We explain what happens in each case and what you get back depending on the situation.

1. The different cancellation cases

Depending on the timing and the person cancelling, the situation varies:

  • You cancel before having paid (you changed your mind or did not follow through with the request): no amount was charged, so there is nothing to refund.
  • You cancel after paying and the host has confirmed: the refund depends on the listing's cancellation policy and the number of days before your arrival (see below).
  • The host cancels your confirmed booking: you are fully refunded, including Roomlala service fees.
  • The host declines your request or does not respond in time: your payment (if it was made) is fully returned to you.

2. When the host cancels your stay

If your host cancels a booking that is already confirmed and paid, you are protected. In concrete terms:

  • You are refunded 100% of the amount paid, including Roomlala service fees. The listing's cancellation policies do not apply in this case: they only concern cancellations initiated by the guest.
  • You are informed by email as soon as the host proceeds with the cancellation, with the details of the refund.
  • The refund is triggered automatically by Roomlala. You do not need to take any action to get your money back.
  • The dates become available again on the host's side, but your protected payment remains secured until it is returned to you.

Roomlala takes this type of situation very seriously: a host who cancels repeatedly is subject to financial penalties. If you need to find a new place to stay urgently, our team can help you identify other listings matching your criteria.

3. The three possible cancellation policies

When you are the one cancelling, the refund depends on the policy chosen by the host for their listing. Each Roomlala listing is associated with one of the three following policies. They are displayed on the listing and in your booking summary, in the "Cancellation policies" section.

4. Flexible policy

The most lenient for the guest.

  • 2 days or more before arrival: 80% refunded
  • Less than 2 days before arrival: no refund

5. Moderate policy

  • 14 days or more before arrival: 80% refunded
  • Between 14 days and 2 days before arrival: 40% refunded
  • Less than 2 days before arrival: no refund

6. Firm policy

The most restrictive, often chosen for highly sought-after stays.

  • 30 days or more before arrival: 80% refunded
  • Between 30 days and 2 days before arrival: 40% refunded
  • Less than 2 days before arrival: no refund

7. What you need to know about fees and commission

Some useful details to help you understand what you receive back:

  • Roomlala service fees are not refunded if you cancel, regardless of the policy. As these fees are largely paid during the first payment, this is the amount that you do not get back.
  • If the host cancels your stay, you are refunded 100% (rent, fees, and Roomlala commission included).
  • If you cancel just after paying (mistake, immediate regret), contact us quickly: a full refund may be considered if the cancellation occurs within a few hours of payment and sufficiently in advance of the arrival date.

The exact amount that will be refunded to you is always displayed before you confirm the cancellation: so you know precisely what you are getting back before finalizing.

8. How to cancel your booking

To cancel, go to My bookings, open the details of the relevant booking, and use the cancellation option. You will be able to see the amount that will be refunded to you before confirming permanently.

Once the cancellation is confirmed, the host is informed by email and you will also receive a confirmation with the refund details.

9. Refund timeline

The refund is triggered as soon as the cancellation is validated. Depending on your bank, the amount will reappear in your account within a few business days. If you do not see anything after a week, contact us.

10. Special case: long-term rentals

For long-term rentals paid in monthly installments, only the months already paid are taken into account in the refund calculation. The cancellation policy applies in the same way to the amounts actually paid.

Future payments will simply be cancelled: no further payments will be requested from you.

Need help?

A cancellation can sometimes be a source of stress. If you have the slightest doubt or if your situation is particular, contact us via the contact form in your account. We are here to support you.