How to Book an Apartment Without Prepayment — and When a Deposit Is Required
1. When You Can Book Without Prepayment
On the day of check-in — if the apartment is available, it’s often enough just to arrive, show your ID, and pay in cash or by card.
This creates flexibility and trust, especially when you need to secure accommodation quickly.
Be sure to agree on the conditions with the owner or manager in advance.
2. When Prepayment Is Required
If you’re booking several days or weeks ahead, owners often ask for a prepayment to guarantee the apartment for you.
Typically, it equals the cost of the first night.
This is standard practice: it protects the host from last-minute cancellations without explanation.
3. Security Deposit at Check-In
When checking in, you may be asked to leave a small refundable cash deposit — for example, 1,000 UAH.
It usually covers potential:
- minor damages (cracks, scratches);
- lost keys;
- issues or extra cleaning requiring additional costs.
If everything is fine, the deposit is returned at check-out.
4. Early Check-In
If you’d like to move in earlier than the standard time (e.g., in the morning instead of after 1–2 PM), the owner will almost always request a prepayment.
The reason is simple: the apartment is reserved for you for the whole day, and the host loses the chance to rent it to someone else.
5. Late Check-In
For arrivals late in the evening or at night, prepayment is usually requested as well.
This ensures the host knows you’ll actually come and doesn’t waste time waiting in vain.
6. Cancellation Policy
- On the day of check-in: cancellations are often possible without penalty (or with just a one-night fee), especially for same-day bookings.
- In advance: if prepayment was made, it may be withheld in case of cancellation.
Always clarify the rules:
- cancellation deadlines;
- whether a full or partial refund is possible;
- if rescheduling is allowed (e.g., moving the booking to another date).
7. Why Does This System Exist?
- No prepayment — lower barrier for guests, but higher risk for hosts.
- Prepayment — a balance that guarantees both sides.
- Deposit — a simple safeguard for the owner: it won’t cover major losses, but it solves the most common issues.
- Clear cancellation rules — reduce misunderstandings and conflicts.
Conclusion
Booking a short-term apartment is convenient, provided you follow a few simple principles:
- Fair arrangements: same-day bookings without prepayment, prepayment for advance reservations.
- Logical guarantees: deposit as a safety mechanism.
- Transparent cancellation rules: to avoid unpleasant surprises.