Booking.com Host demanding undisclosed deposit after booking and refusing to honour booking

brianposter

No. Apart from the fact that it is difficult to be "just an agent", Booking"s business is finding accomodation which, so far in this case, they have failed to do.

If the OP were to book directly with a hotel by telephone it would normally be straightforward to arrange access to a fridge.

Curiosity2017

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81977465#Comment_81977465

Rubbish. If they failed to find accommodation how did the op manage to book it then?

They've done exactly as you'd expect, displayed a list of results for the op to choose. You're basically making up what their business is to suit yourself which isn't correct.

brianposter

The host has refused to let the OP use the accomodation despite the fact that the OP has a paid for booking. Booking.com have (at least when the OP last posted) failed completely.

It is up to Booking whether they allow hosts to change the terms of a booking after the fee has been paid, but if they do so they have to accept the consequences - that some bookings will fall apart as a result of host actions and that refunds will be required in such cases

user1977

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81977465#Comment_81977465

Here are booking.com's terms.

Can you explain on what basis you think your interpretation would take precedence over these?

brianposter

The law always takes precedence over T & Cs. People can write anything as T&Cs - it does not mean that they have any legal validity.

For example B2 term 1; if you pay Booking then they are legally a contractual provider.

user1977

Paying money to somebody doesn't necessarily mean you're in a contract with them, particularly when they've already told you they're merely acting as an agent.

brianposter

It does if you are expecting something in return.

user1977

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81978545#Comment_81978545

I don't think you understand the concept of agency.

brianposter

I understand the concept perfectly well, which is why I know that you are promoting nonsense. Agency is something that internet providers are very keen on as an argument for avoiding responsibility.

Fortunately about 50 years ago our legislators drew up relevant legislation which has generally stood the test of time.

https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1973/41

user1977

Any chance of pointing us towards what you think is the relevant provision in that Act?