Terms & Conditions

Last Updated: 30-Jan 2025

1. Government Travel Restrictions and Advisories

1.1 Travel Guidance

• Always check travel restrictions or advisories issued by relevant authorities (e.g. the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (“FCDO”)) prior to making or commencing your booking. Local requirements may apply.
• We (Ski Armadillo Ltd. – “We,” “Us,” “Our”) are not responsible for the content of government or official websites. Travel restrictions can change rapidly; it is your responsibility to stay informed.

1.2 Consequences of Restrictions

• If travel is or becomes legally restricted, we will do our best to accommodate changes to your booking (see Force Majeure and Cancellation Clauses). However, we are not liable for any costs, damages, or losses arising from government actions.

2. Definitions2.1 We / Us / Our: Refers to Ski Armadillo Ltd.
2.2 You / Your: The person who makes the booking (the “Group Leader”), and all guests (including those on whose behalf the booking was made).
2.3 Property: The chalet or other holiday accommodation you have booked.
2.4 Booking: The reservation you make for the Property, subject to these Terms.
2.5 Force Majeure: Events or circumstances beyond our reasonable control, such as war, terrorism, civil unrest, industrial disputes, natural disasters, pandemics, government restrictions, or severe weather.3. What We Do3.1 We provide chalet accommodation—catered, semi-catered, or self-catered—and may arrange or facilitate additional concierge services via third-party suppliers (e.g. ski passes, ski lessons, airport transfers).3.2 We act either as a direct service provider (for our own offerings) or as an agent for independent third-party suppliers. Where we act as agent, your contractual relationship is directly with the supplier under their terms and conditions.4. The Booking4.1 Applicability

• These Terms apply to you (the Group Leader) and all individuals staying at or visiting the Property under your booking. By paying a deposit or full payment, you confirm that you accept these Terms.

4.2 Check-In and Check-Out

• Standard check-in and check-out times will be stated in your booking confirmation. Any early arrival or late departure must be agreed in writing. Failure to vacate by the agreed check-out time may result in additional charges (e.g. extra cleaning, staffing costs).

4.3 Age Requirement

• You must be at least 18 years of age to make a booking. You agree to be present at the Property throughout the rental period.

5. Deposits and Confirmation5.1 Booking Deposit vs. Full Payment

• If your booking is made more than 12 weeks before the arrival date, a deposit of 35% of the total booking cost is due to confirm your reservation.
• If your booking is made 12 weeks or less before arrival, full payment of the total booking cost is required immediately.

5.2 Provisional Booking

• We may issue a provisional booking confirmation email, but no contract exists until we receive the required deposit or full payment, and you have received a final confirmation from us.

5.3 Accepted Payment Methods

• We accept bank transfers, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, or debit cards. We may decline certain payment methods at our discretion.

6. Balance Payment6.1 Due Date

• The remaining balance (if you have only paid a 35% deposit) is due 12 weeks prior to your arrival date.

6.2 Non-Payment

• If you fail to pay the full balance by the due date, we reserve the right to cancel the booking and apply our standard cancellation charges (see Clause 11).

7. Taxe de Séjour (Tourist Tax)7.1 Legal Requirement

• Both France and Switzerland levy a Tourist Tax (“Taxe de Séjour”) per person, per night.

7.2 Switzerland (e.g., Verbier)

• Approx. 4 CHF per adult per night
• Approx. 2 CHF per child (6–16 years) per night
• No charge for infants under 5
• Rates subject to change by local authorities.

7.3 France

• Rates vary by municipality and accommodation classification (approx. €0.20 to €4.20 per adult per night).
• Children’s rates or exemptions depend on local rules.

7.4 Collection

• We collect this Tourist Tax in advance with your final invoice payment (12 weeks prior to arrival). You must provide full names and ages of all guests to allow accurate calculation. Rate changes imposed by local authorities will be adjusted on your final invoice or charged on-site if applicable.

8. Insurance8.1 Mandatory Travel Insurance

• You must obtain adequate travel insurance covering:
  
  1. Emergency medical expenses (including mountain rescue, ambulance, repatriation)
  2. Cancellation or curtailment (including Force Majeure events)
  3. Personal liability
  4. Travel and transfer delays
  5. Ski/mountain activities, including off-piste if applicable

8.2 Failure to Insure

• We accept no liability for costs incurred or claims against us arising from insufficient insurance coverage.

8.3 Recommended Provider

• If you do not already have coverage, we recommend checking MPI Brokers via https://retail.mpibrokers.com/skiarmadillo.

9. Security Deposit

‍9.1 Purpose

• Covers any damage to the Property, adjacent properties, or our vehicles/equipment caused by you, your group, or visitors you invite.

9.2 Amount

• Typically 10% of the total booking price, with a minimum of £5,000 GBP, unless otherwise stated.

9.3 Timing

• The Security Deposit is due no later than 2 weeks before arrival.

9.4 Deductions

• Breakages, damage, excessive cleaning, unpaid invoices, or other chargeable costs are deducted from the deposit. If these costs exceed the deposit, you must pay the difference immediately upon notification.

9.5 Refund

• We aim to refund any remaining balance of the Security Deposit within 1 month after your stay, once accounts are settled and damages assessed.

10. Chargeable Services & Service Deposit (Extras)10.1 Chargeable Services

• Upon request, we may purchase or reserve items/services (e.g., ski passes, restaurant bookings) on your behalf. Any associated costs must be paid before departure. If unpaid, they may be deducted from your Security Deposit.

10.2 Service Deposit (Extras)

• At our discretion, we may require an additional Service Deposit to cover anticipated extras during your stay (e.g., ski school, additional food/beverages, excursions).

1. Amount & Timing: We will specify the required deposit and due date in writing.
2. Usage: Applied to on-site or concierge-arranged costs.
3. Reconciliation: Unused amounts will be refunded within 14–30 days post-departure, once supplier invoices are settled.

11. Alterations & Cancellation by You11.1 Alterations

• Any change request must be made in writing by you, the Group Leader. We will do our best to accommodate but cannot guarantee all changes. Any additional costs incurred will be chargeable to you.

11.2 Cancellation by You

• Must be made in writing. Cancellation charges apply as follows:
  
  • More than 12 weeks before departure: 100% of the deposit is forfeited.
  • Within 12 weeks of departure: 100% of the total booking cost is forfeited.

11.3 No Refunds for Unused Services

• We do not provide refunds for unused portions of accommodation, services, or any component of your booking.

11.4 Insurance Claims

• We strongly advise ensuring your travel insurance covers cancellation to mitigate financial loss.

12. Alterations & Cancellation by Us

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‍12.1 Our Commitment

• We strive to honour confirmed bookings. In rare cases, we may need to cancel or significantly alter your booking.

12.2 Alternatives or Refund

• If we must cancel or make a substantial change, we will:
  
  1. Offer an alternative property/dates (if available), or
  2. Provide a refund of monies already paid if no suitable alternative is available.

12.3 Force Majeure

• If changes result from Force Majeure (e.g., war, terrorism, strikes, natural disaster, official travel bans, severe weather), our liability is limited. No additional compensation is guaranteed, though we will endeavour to find a suitable re-booking option if possible.

13. Expanded Force Majeure Clause

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‍13.1 Definition

• Force Majeure events include those beyond our reasonable control: war, civil unrest, terrorism, industrial disputes, natural or nuclear disasters, fires, floods, pandemics, government or border closures, severe weather, or any similar event.

13.2 Consequences

• In the event of Force Majeure, we may suspend, cancel, or modify the booking. If we cannot provide the Property, our liability is limited to offering alternative dates or a refund of amounts already paid, where feasible.

13.3 No Additional Liability

• We shall not be liable for any extra costs, damages, or compensation beyond what is stipulated in these Terms.

14. Special Requests

‍14.1 Dietary & Other Requests

• Please inform us of any special requests (e.g. dietary needs, celebrations) when booking. While we strive to accommodate, we cannot guarantee all requests.

14.2 Documentation

• Any special arrangement should be confirmed in writing and noted in our reservation system.

15. Ancillary (Third-Party) Services

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‍15.1 Arrangements on Your Behalf

• We can arrange ski instruction, equipment hire, childcare, etc., via third parties. You are directly liable for costs under the supplier’s terms.

15.2 Liability

• We are not responsible for the performance or negligence of any third-party supplier. Disputes must be resolved with the supplier directly.

16. Right of Access / Maintenance

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‍16.1 Access for Maintenance & Emergencies

• We (and our authorised staff or contractors) may enter the Property at reasonable times to inspect, carry out repairs, or address emergencies. We will endeavour to provide notice, but in urgent situations, prior notification may not be possible.

17. Use of Property & Maximum Occupancy

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‍17.1 Permitted Use

• The Property is to be used solely as holiday accommodation. Commercial activities (e.g. photo shoots, large events) are prohibited unless agreed in writing.

17.2 Maximum Occupancy

• The total number of occupants cannot exceed that stated on your booking confirmation. Any unapproved additional guests may lead to immediate termination of your stay without refund, and any associated costs (extra cleaning, local authority fines) will be charged to you.

17.3 Subletting Prohibited

• You may not sublet or assign the Property to any third party.

18. Your Responsibilities

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‍18.1 Indemnification

• You agree to indemnify us against any loss, damage, or injury caused by you or your group, including legal costs.

18.2 Travel Documents

• You are responsible for ensuring all required passports, visas, or similar are valid.

18.3 Conduct & Guest Behaviour

• All guests must behave in a respectful, lawful, and orderly manner. Excessive noise, disturbance, harassment, or dangerous/illegal activities are strictly forbidden.
• We may terminate your stay without refund if we reasonably believe your behaviour seriously breaches these Terms or local regulations. Costs arising from misconduct (e.g. fines, extra cleaning) may be deducted from your Security Deposit or invoiced to you.

18.4 Visitors (Non-Registered Guests)

• You are responsible for the conduct of any visitors you invite. Any breach of these Terms by a visitor is treated as a breach by you. We reserve the right to refuse entry or require visitors to leave if they cause disturbance or damage.

18.5 Valuables & Personal Property

• You are responsible for safeguarding your own valuables. We strongly advise that you have insurance cover for personal belongings. We are not liable for theft, loss, or damage to personal items unless caused by our proven negligence.

18.6 Lost or Left-Behind Items

• Contact us promptly if you believe you have left items behind. We will attempt to store them for up to 4 weeks. Shipping or postage costs are at your expense. After 4 weeks, unclaimed items may be discarded or donated.

18.7 Use of Facilities & Amenities

• If the Property includes hot tubs, saunas, or similar, you use them at your own risk. Always follow posted instructions and supervise children. We are not liable for accidents due to misuse or failure to follow guidelines.

18.8 Activities at Your Own Risk

• Skiing or similar activities are at your own risk. We are not responsible for injuries arising from your negligence or failure to heed local laws/guidelines.

18.9 Prohibited Items & Activities

• Fireworks, firearms, illegal substances, or hazardous items are strictly prohibited. Breach may result in immediate eviction without refund and/or involvement of local authorities.

18.10 Local Disturbances / External Factors

• We are not liable for external factors (e.g., local construction, street noise, events, utility outages) beyond our reasonable control. No compensation is provided for such disturbances.

18.11 No Guarantee of Snow or Weather Conditions

• We make no representations regarding snowfall, weather, or resort operations. We are not liable for refunds or losses if weather disrupts your planned activities.

18.12 Parking & Vehicles

• If parking is provided, you park at your own risk. We are not responsible for theft or damage to vehicles. In winter conditions, you must comply with local requirements (e.g. snow chains).

19. Liability

‍19.1 Scope

• We accept liability for our own negligence or breach of contract but only to the extent permissible by law.

19.2 Exclusions

• We do not accept liability for Force Majeure events, nor for losses arising from your or your group’s acts or omissions.

19.3 Non-Excludable Liability

• Nothing in these Terms excludes or limits liability for death or personal injury caused by our negligence, or any liability that cannot be excluded by law.

19.4 Third-Party Services

• We are not liable for any negligence, breach, or omission by third-party suppliers.

20. Rules & Safety Precautions

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‍20.1 House Rules

• Any house rules (e.g., quiet hours, hot tub guidelines) form part of these Terms. You must comply fully.

20.2 Child Supervision

• You are responsible for supervising children at all times, particularly around cooking facilities, hot tubs, balconies, or fireplaces.

21. Security21.1 Locking Up

• You must lock doors and windows when leaving the Property. If provided, alarm systems should be used as instructed.

21.2 Insurance Considerations

• Failure to secure the Property properly may invalidate insurance coverage. You may be liable for losses resulting from negligence in securing the Property.

22. Pets / Animals

‍22.1 Prior Approval

• Pets are only permitted with our written consent.

22.2 Penalty

• Bringing a pet without permission may result in a penalty (e.g., £1,000 or local currency equivalent) and immediate removal of the animal.

23. Smoking23.1 No Smoking Indoors

• Smoking is strictly prohibited inside the Property. Violations may result in a cleaning fee (e.g., CHF 1,000 or local equivalent) and potential eviction without refund.

24. Property Finding & Selling

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‍24.1 Introductions

• If you express interest in buying or selling a property while staying with us, we may facilitate introductions to potential buyers/sellers.

24.2 Fees

• Any resulting property transaction may incur a separate finder’s fee or commission chargeable by us, in line with market rates.

25. Complaints & Problems

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‍25.1 Immediate Notification

• If you have a complaint, please notify us (and any relevant supplier) immediately so we can attempt to resolve it on-site.

25.2 Post-Departure Complaints

• Submit formal complaints in writing to info@skiarmadillo.com. Delays in reporting may hinder our ability to address or rectify issues.

25.3 Resolution

• We will investigate and respond to complaints in good faith. No refunds or compensation will be considered if we are not given the opportunity to rectify matters during your stay.

26. Our Insurance

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‍26.1 Coverage

• We hold appropriate liability insurance to the extent required by law. This does not extend to cover your personal property, accidents caused by your own negligence, or Force Majeure events.

26.2 No Substitute for Your Insurance

• Our insurance is not a replacement for your mandatory travel insurance (see Clause 8).

27. Marketing & Brochures

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‍27.1 Accuracy

• We strive to ensure website and brochure details are accurate. If you wish to confirm specific aspects, request written verification.

27.2 Images & Descriptions

• Property photos and descriptions aim to be representative. Minor changes or variations (e.g. decor updates, amenity changes) may occur without notice.

28. Data Protection28.1 Compliance

• We process personal data in accordance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018.

28.2 Purpose of Collection

• Personal data is collected to manage your booking (e.g. names, ages for Tourist Tax), arrange services, and comply with legal obligations.

28.3 Sharing

• We share relevant details only with trusted suppliers or authorities as necessary. We do not sell personal data to third parties.

28.4 Your Rights

• You can request access, correction, or deletion of your personal data by contacting info@skiarmadillo.com.

28.5 Marketing Communications

• We may send you promotional material. You can opt out at any time by contacting us.

28.6 Cookies & Remarketing

• Our website may use cookies for functionality, security, and targeted advertising. You can adjust browser settings to limit cookies, but this may affect site performance.

29. Confidentiality29.1 Confidential Terms

• The terms of your booking are confidential and should not be disclosed to third parties except as required by law.

29.2 Respecting Guest Privacy

• We also respect your privacy. If you have special confidentiality concerns, please notify us.

30. Entire Agreement & Severability

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‍30.1 Entire Agreement

• These Terms, along with your booking confirmation and any documented house rules, constitute the entire agreement between you and us. Any oral assurances not confirmed in writing shall not be binding.

30.2 Severability

• If any clause is held invalid by a court, all other clauses remain enforceable to the fullest extent permitted by law.

31. Non-Assignment

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‍31.1 Booking Is Personal

• Your booking is personal to you and your group. You may not assign or transfer your rights or obligations under these Terms to another party without our written consent.

32. Translations or Conflicting Terms

‍32.1 English Version Prevails

• If these Terms are translated into another language, the English-language version shall prevail in case of conflict or inconsistency.

33. Jurisdiction

‍33.1 Governing Law

• These Terms (including non-contractual disputes) are governed by and construed in accordance with English law.

33.2 Court Jurisdiction

• The courts of England and Wales have exclusive jurisdiction over any dispute arising from these Terms or the booking.

33.3 Statutory Rights

• Nothing in these Terms affects your statutory rights under UK consumer legislation.

34. Disclaimer

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‍34.1 Legal Advice

• These Terms & Conditions are provided for informational purposes and are not legal advice. If you have specific concerns about legality or enforceability, please consult a qualified solicitor.

34.2 Acceptance

• By paying the deposit or full balance, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms & Conditions.

Contact UsIf you have any questions regarding these Terms & Conditions, please reach out:Ski Armadillo Ltd.
Email: info@skiarmadillo.comEnd of Terms & Conditions