Hotel overcharged me - is this legal?

dannim12345

So very briefly - Me and my friend went away for a spa weekend, she paid for it online via Walanda (not directly through the hotel). We had a lovely weekend but some of the staff didn't seem to know much about the package and we had to show our booking confirmation several times. After our stay we checked out and left.

So a couple of days ago I was checking through my bank statement and noticed I was charged for our afternoon tea (part of the package)! The thing is on check-in I paid for my car parking (£8) on card but I didn't agree for my card to be used as a 'tab' when asked & I didn't hand my card over (only put it in the card machine & paid my £8). Yet more money was taken from my account without my knowledge!!!

I phoned and got the money refunded but is this even legal??

Thanks

lisyloo

No, If you haven't agreed for your card to be used in that way, then they shouldn't do it.

In hotels it's very common to give a credit card to be used for any extras and used like a tab, so I suspect the staff have just gone down the usual route without thinking, but no they can't just charge what they like to your card without your persmission.

You shouldn't have to do this, but one thing you could do in future to guard against it is to pay your parking in cash.
You shouldn't have to do that but it might save you some hassle.

You could write or call and speak to the manager if you're very unhappy, but it sounds like an innocent mistake to me although I understand it's not acceptable to you.

iancrt

Hotels usually authorise the card on arrival, then charge the full bill. Yes this is legal though often not entirely explained as it should be by receptionists (who in all fairness know what they do but have no idea why they do it)
To be honest this sound like a genuine mistake - probably by the waiting staff when you had you 'afternoon tea' - that has been rectified, job done.

dannim12345

Thank you for your quick responses.