How can I address excessive additional costs in the hotel?
October 11, 2023 | 30,00 EUR | answered by Sophia Breitwieser
Dear lawyer,
my name is Bernd Bauer and I recently had an unpleasant incident during my vacation at a hotel. I noticed that excessive additional charges were invoiced to me at the hotel. When I checked the bill, I noticed several items that I believe were not correct. Among other things, I was charged for minibar consumption, even though I did not use the minibar during my stay.
I tried to contact the hotel to resolve the matter, but I was repeatedly put off and my concerns were left unanswered. I feel unfairly treated by the hotel and wonder how I can address these excessive additional charges.
I am worried that I do not have to pay the bill because I consider the costs unjustified. At the same time, I also want to ensure that I do not face legal consequences if I refuse to make the payment. I would like to resolve the situation as soon as possible, as I do not want this issue to continue to burden my vacation.
Can you please advise me on how to address the excessive additional charges at the hotel? Are there legal steps I can take to defend my rights as a consumer? Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Bernd Bauer
Dear Mr. Bauer,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the excessive incidental charges that were billed to you during your stay at the hotel. It is understandable that you feel unfairly treated by the hotel and would like to find a solution to this matter as soon as possible. I will provide you with advice on how to address the unjustified incidental charges and what legal steps you can take to defend your rights as a consumer.
First and foremost, it is important that you gather all relevant documents and evidence. This includes the hotel invoice, your booking confirmation, any correspondence with the hotel, as well as photos or witness statements that can prove that you did not actually use the minibar. These documents will help strengthen your position in case of legal disputes with the hotel.
As a next step, I recommend contacting the hotel in writing again. Politely but firmly request the hotel to review the unlawfully charged incidental costs and correct them if necessary. Give the hotel a reasonable deadline to respond to your request, for example, two weeks. If the hotel does not respond or refuses to refund the excessive incidental charges even after this deadline, you may consider taking further legal action.
One option would be to contact a consumer protection agency or a travel law attorney. These experts can help you assert your claims against the hotel and possibly reach an out-of-court settlement. If no agreement is reached, you may consider filing a lawsuit against the hotel and demanding your rights in court.
It is important to note that as a consumer, you have the right not to pay unjustified demands. However, if you refuse to pay, be prepared for the possibility that the hotel may take legal action against you. In this case, it is advisable to seek legal assistance in a timely manner to effectively represent your interests.
I hope that these suggestions will help you and that you can successfully dispute the excessive incidental charges. If you have any further questions or need legal assistance, I am at your disposal. I wish you success in resolving this matter and hope that you can still enjoy your vacation.
Sincerely,
Sophia Breitwieser
Travel Law Attorney
