Terms of Service
1. General
(1) Overview of HandalStay Services
HandalStay provides a technical platform that enables both commercial and private accommodation Lessors (“Lessor” or “Hosts”) to list mid- to long-term real estate leases, with a minimum stay of 30 days or more. Lessees seeking accommodation (“Lessee” or “Guests”) can access these listings via www.HandalStay.com and other websites or platforms operated by HandalStay, facilitating the booking and search process. In these Terms of Service, Lessors and Lessees are collectively referred to as "Users."
(2) Scope of Application
These Terms of Service apply to all interactions with the HandalStay platform (“HandalStay” or the “Operator”). This includes access through any mobile website, application (“App”), or third-party portals or applications for mobile devices developed, provided, or made available by HandalStay.
These Terms of Service shall apply exclusively and with priority, and any additional or conflicting terms or conditions proposed by the user shall have no legal effect.
(3) Permissible Use of HandalStay’s Platform
The use of all HandalStay-operated websites and databases (“Our Website”) is restricted to private, non-commercial purposes. Any commercial use is strictly prohibited. The platform must not be utilized for false, speculative, or fraudulent bookings, nor for reservations aimed at meeting potential future demand. By accessing or using Our Website, you agree not to engage in the following actions without prior written consent from HandalStay:
(4) Termination or Restriction of Access
HandalStay reserves the right to suspend, restrict, or terminate access to any part of Our Website at its sole discretion, without prior notice and without incurring any liability.
2. Services for Lessors and Lessees
(1) Facilitating Search, Booking, and Secure Transactions
HandalStay provides a tailored search feature that enables Lessees to identify suitable property listings offered by Lessors within the platform's database. After a match is found, HandalStay directs the Lessee to the Lessor’s listing or facilitates direct communication between the two parties.
To ensure secure transactions, HandalStay safely processes all fees, including accommodation fees, utility charges, and security deposits (if applicable), through the official payment channels of licensed payment service providers in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
Reservation Payment
Upon approval of the lessee’s reservation request by the lessor, the lessee shall pay the accommodation fee for 30 days, applicable utilities, and the HandalStay platform service fee. All payments shall be made in U.S. Dollars (USD).
For lease terms exceeding 30 days, the accommodation fee for the following month will be automatically charged seven (7) days prior to the start of the relevant month. In the event that the payment fails, a grace period of 24 hours shall be provided for the lessee to verify and update the payment method. If the payment is not completed within this period, the lease term shall be deemed valid only up to the period for which payment has been successfully made, and the lease end date shall be adjusted accordingly.
Payment to lessors
The accommodation fee and utilities for the first month shall be paid to the lessor on the day following the lessee’s check-in. Subsequent monthly accommodation fees and utilities shall be paid on the first day of each month. Each payment to the lessor shall be subject to deduction of the platform service fee as determined by HandalStay. If the lessor’s identity verification is not completed by the time of the first month’s payment, the disbursement of such payment shall be withheld until identity verification is successfully completed.
The security deposit shall be handled in accordance with Section (3) Security Deposit.
(2) Reservation Cancellation and Refund Policy
Cancellation Before Host Approval If the guest cancels the reservation before the host approves it, the full amount paid will be refunded.
Cancellation After Host Approval – 30 Days or More Before Check-in If the guest cancels the reservation after host approval and there are 30 days or more remaining before the check-in date, the cost corresponding to the period from the time of host approval to the time of cancellation will be deducted on a pro-rated daily basis (up to a maximum of 7 days). The remaining balance will be refunded. However, the HandalStay platform service fee is non-refundable.
Cancellation After Host Approval – 15 to 29 Days Before Check-in If the reservation is canceled when there are between 15 and 29 days remaining before the scheduled check-in date, the cost equivalent to 10 days of accommodation will not be refunded. The remaining balance will be refunded. However, the platform service fee is non-refundable.
Cancellation After Host Approval – Less Than 15 Days Before Check-in If the reservation is canceled when fewer than 15 days remain before the scheduled check-in date, the cost equivalent to 15 days of accommodation will not be refunded. The remaining balance will be refunded. However, the platform service fee is non-refundable.
Cancellation After Check-in If the reservation is canceled after check-in, any rent and utility fees already paid will not be refunded. The refund eligibility and amount of the security deposit will be handled separately in accordance with the applicable security deposit policy.
| Cancellation Timing | Days Remaining Until Check-in | Rent Refund | Utilities Refund | Service Fee Refund |
| Before Reservation Approval | – | Full refund | Full refund | Full refund |
| After Reservation Approval ~ Before Check-in | 30 days or more | Refunded after deducting rent on a pro-rata basis for the period elapsed since approval (up to a maximum of 7 days) | Full refund | No refund |
| 15–29 days | Refunded after deducting the equivalent of 10 days’ rent | Full refund | No refund | |
| Less than 15 days | Refunded after deducting the equivalent of 15 days’ rent | Full refund | No refund | |
| After Check-in | – | No refund (The security deposit, if any, shall be handled in accordance with the separate security deposit policy) |
Refund Processing Period
Refunds are processed in accordance with the procedures of the payment service provider integrated with the platform and, in principle, are issued to the original payment method used for the transaction. Once a refund request is approved, processing may take approximately 5 to 10 business days.
(3) Security Deposit
The security deposit is a financial safeguard intended to cover potential property damage or breaches of the lease by the lessee during the rental period.
HandalStay processes security deposits differently depending on the selected payment method, as outlined below.
Credit Card Payments
Fourteen (14) days prior to the Lessee’s scheduled check-out date, the security deposit will be pre-authorized on the Lessee’s credit card. This pre-authorization does not represent an actual charge. Only the amount claimed by the Host at or after check-out will be actually charged. Any remaining pre-authorized amount, excluding the charged portion, will be automatically released.
Bank Transfer Payments
Fourteen (14) days prior to the lessee’s scheduled check-out date, the full security deposit amount will be collected via bank transfer.
At or after check-out, only the amount claimed by the host will be transferred to the host’s bank account, and any remaining balance will be refunded to the lessee’s bank account.
If the lessee fulfills all contractual obligations and no valid grounds for a security deposit claim arise, the security deposit will be fully canceled or refunded.
(3-1) Security Deposit Claims and Review Process
If valid grounds for a security deposit claim are confirmed, the host may submit a security deposit claim to HandalStay within forty-eight (48) hours from the time of check-out, limited to the amount previously agreed upon with the lessee. If no security deposit claim is submitted within this period, the host’s right to claim the security deposit shall be forfeited.
Upon receipt of a security deposit claim, HandalStay may conduct a factual review to determine whether: (i) prior consultation with the lessee took place, (ii) the claimed amount matches the amount agreed upon, or (iii) consultation was attempted but no agreement was reached.
Based on the lessee’s feedback and the results of such review, HandalStay may request the host to take one or more of the following actions:
Any resubmission of a security deposit claim must be made within forty-eight (48) hours from the time the host receives notice of claim rejection from HandalStay, and must include relevant materials demonstrating the grounds for the claim.
HandalStay shall determine whether to approve or reject the resubmitted security deposit claim within seven (7) days from the date of receipt.
If either party disputes HandalStay’s decision regarding the second security deposit claim, the matter shall be resolved through direct consultation between the host and the lessee. HandalStay’s role in such cases shall be limited to facilitating communication and coordination between the parties, and shall not extend to adjudication or binding dispute resolution.
(3-2) Dispute Mediation for Security Deposits
In case of disputes regarding security deposits, HandalStay acts as a neutral mediator to facilitate communication and review the circumstances. While HandalStay endeavors to assist in dispute resolution, it does not assume liability for settling disputes. Lessees and Lessors are encouraged to reach a mutually acceptable resolution or pursue legal remedies if necessary.
(3-3) Guidelines for Security Deposit Disputes When mediating disputes involving security deposits, the following criteria will apply:
(4) Search Result Limitations To maintain optimal functionality, search results may be limited to a specified number of entries when a query returns a large number of listings.
(5) Role of HandalStay and Liability Limitations HandalStay acts solely as a platform that facilitates and supports rental transactions between Hosts and Guests and is not a party to any lease agreement entered into between a Host and a Guest. Accordingly, Users acknowledge and agree that HandalStay bears no responsibility or liability for the performance, enforcement, or fulfillment of any lease agreement, nor for any disputes, claims, losses, or damages arising out of or related to such agreements.
All disputes arising from or in connection with a lease agreement shall be resolved solely between the Host and the Guest, who are the contracting parties. HandalStay shall not be deemed a party to any such dispute, and Users agree that they shall not assert any claims, including claims for damages, against HandalStay in connection with any lease agreement.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, HandalStay may, at its discretion, review or investigate reported matters and, based on the results of such review, take appropriate actions, including but not limited to restricting listings, suspending or terminating access to the platform, or deleting the account of a Host or Guest.
In addition, for the purpose of maintaining the integrity and proper operation of the platform, HandalStay reserves the right to modify, correct, restrict, or remove any information provided by Users.
3. HandalStay’s Liability Regarding Offers, Bookings, and Lease Agreements
(1) Role as a Service Provider HandalStay operates solely as a technical service provider, enabling Lessees to search for and discover suitable offers. HandalStay does not publish its own property listings on the platform and assumes no responsibility for the content or terms of the offers provided. The Lessor is exclusively responsible for all offers listed on the platform or on any external websites linked through HandalStay. This includes the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of the information provided, as well as any declarations of intent associated with the listings.
(2) Contracts Between Lessors and Lessees All mid-long term accommodation bookings and rental agreements occur solely between the Lessor and the Lessee. HandalStay is not a party to these agreements, and any responsibility for enforcing the terms or for disputes arising between the Lessor and Lessee rests entirely with the parties themselves.
HandalStay provides support only to facilitate mediation and resolution in the event of issues between users.
The lease agreement is confirmed when the lessor approves the lessee’s reservation request and the lessee’s initial payment is successfully completed.
(3) Dispute Resolution
In the event of a dispute between the Lessor and Lessee arising from the use of HandalStay platform, including reservations, cancellations, refunds, or any issues occurring during the rental period, and if the parties are unable to reach an amicable agreement, Han Dal will facilitate dispute resolution.
The Operator may request relevant records or evidence from the parties during the resolution process. The outcome of the dispute resolution shall be binding within the Han Dal platform for service use and operational purposes. However, in the case of a legal dispute, the final decision shall be made by the competent court.
(4) Handling of Booking Data and Inquiries The provisions outlined in Sections (1) and (2) also apply when HandalStay processes booking requests, inquiries, or related data to facilitate smooth communication between the Lessee and the Lessor. This includes cases where HandalStay transmits a Lessee’s booking request or inquiry to a Lessor through the platform’s booking function or inquiry form.
4. Pricing
(1) Lessor Responsibility for Pricing
All prices for rental properties or accommodations are determined solely by the Host. Upon listing an accommodation, the Host enters and manages the monthly rent, utilities, security deposit, and other applicable fees through the Host account. In the event that prices need to be changed, the Lessor must update them promptly via the Host account.
(2) Accuracy and Transparency of Pricing
The prices listed are considered the final cost for the rental property or accommodation. The Lessor is responsible for ensuring that the listed price is accurate, fair, and includes all applicable fees.
HandalStay makes reasonable efforts to provide Lessees with transparent and comprehensive pricing information. However, some additional fees charged by the Lessor may not always be fully disclosed in advance.
(3) Reporting and Resolving Unfair Charges
If a Lessee believes that an additional charge is unfair, they may report it to HandalStay. Upon receiving a report, HandalStay will investigate the issue and, based on the findings, attempt to resolve it in consultation with the Lessor. If the Lessor fails to comply with the applicable rules, HandalStay may take necessary actions, including temporarily suspending or deleting the Lessor’s account.
(4) Service Fees
(4-1) Imposition of Service Fees
HandalStay may charge service fees to both property Lessors and Lessees to support platform maintenance, operation, and service delivery. Service fees are calculated based on the rental agreement amount established between the Lessor and the Lessee. Lessees can review the service fees at the time of booking, and Lessors can verify the applicable amount through their payout accounts.
(4-2) Refund Policy
Service fees are charged as compensation for platform usage and contract facilitation and are generally non-refundable. However, if the contract cannot be fulfilled due to reasons attributable to HandalStay, a partial or full refund may be issued.
(4-3) right of Changes
HandalStay reserves the right to modify the rates and criteria for service fees.
5. Obligations and Responsibilities of Lessors
(1) Content Accuracy and Reliability Lessors are solely responsible for the accuracy, quality, completeness, and reliability of all content and offers provided or created by the lessors. While listing an accommodation is subject to HandalStay’s approval process, HandalStay does not verify the accuracy or legality of such content or materials and does not provide any additional information or representations regarding the Host, the rental property, or the accommodation.
(2) Legal and Regulatory Compliance Lessors must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, the HandalStay Terms of Service, and any contractual conditions related to the use of the service, including the Lease Agreement.
The Lessor must be the property owner, a tenant authorized by the owner to sublet the property, or a party duly delegated with management authority by the owner, and must obtain all registrations and licenses required by applicable state and federal authorities to operate a rental accommodation for stays of thirty (30) days or longer.
Compliance with these requirements is essential for providing rental services legally and transparently on the HandalStay platform.
If a lessor violates any laws or regulations, the operator may immediately revoke the lessor’s rental privileges or terminate their account. In such cases, the lessor shall forfeit any right to claim payment for unpaid rent, utilities, security deposits, HandalStay platform fees, or any other compensation.
(3) Tax Obligations Lessors are responsible for reporting and paying taxes on earnings generated through HandalStay. Compliance with relevant tax laws is mandatory, and HandalStay assumes no liability for any tax-related issues or obligations arising from a Lessor's activities.
(4) Dispute Resolution Lessors must address and resolve any disputes or complaints from Lessees promptly. Failure to do so may result in HandalStay taking corrective measures, including but not limited to suspension or removal from the platform.
(5) Content Updates and Accuracy Lessors are obligated to ensure that all listing details, including descriptions, images, and pricing, are accurate and up-to-date. Regular updates must be made to avoid misrepresentation or misinformation.
(6) Fulfillment of Agreements The lessor must comply with all terms and conditions stated in their listing and perform all reservations and leases in accordance with the agreed contractual terms. Accordingly, once a reservation has been approved, the lessor may not cancel the reservation at their discretion.
Failure to fulfill these obligations may result in liability for damages or losses incurred by Lessees or HandalStay.
(7) Accommodation Standards Lessors are responsible for ensuring their accommodations meet all applicable safety, health, and accessibility standards as required by local regulations. HandalStay does not assume liability for issues related to the safety or condition of the accommodations.
(8) Notification of Changes Lessors must promptly inform HandalStay of significant changes to their listings or business operations that could impact Lessees or the services provided. This includes modifications to availability, pricing, or terms.
(9) Cooperation with Investigations Lessors agree to cooperate with HandalStay in any investigations regarding compliance with these terms or the resolution of disputes. This includes providing any necessary documentation or information upon request.
6. Obligations and Responsibilities of Lessees
(1) Accuracy of Information Lessees must provide accurate, complete, and truthful information when utilizing HandalStay. Any misrepresentation, omission, or false information may lead to account termination or other appropriate consequences.
The Lessee must register a valid payment method when making a reservation. If, at the time of the reservation request or during the lease period, the payment or pre-authorization of the security deposit (Pre-Authorization) cannot be processed due to card expiration, exceeded limits, insufficient funds, denial by the issuing bank, or other similar reasons, the lessee must provide an alternative payment method, such as another card or a bank transfer (ACH), to resolve the issue.
If payment or pre-authorization related actions are not completed within the timeframe specified in these Terms of Service, the operator may take measures depending on the circumstances, including but not limited to reservation refusal, reservation cancellation, adjustment of the checkout date, collection of outstanding amounts after checkout, withholding of the security deposit, immediate eviction, or direct negotiation with the lessor.
(2) Compliance with Laws, Regulations, and Terms Lessees must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, the HandalStay Terms of Service, and any contractual conditions related to the use of the platform, including any Lease Agreement. Any legal issues, fines, or liabilities arising from the use of the platform shall be the sole responsibility of the lessees.
If a lessee violates any laws or regulations, or breaches the Terms of Service or any contractual conditions, the operator and the lessor may require the lessee to vacate the property immediately. In such cases, the lessee shall forfeit any right to request a refund for any fees, rent, deposits, or other charges.
(3) Guidelines for Property Use
The lessee shall not damage, deface, or make any alterations to the leased property without the prior consent of the lessor. In the event of any disputes arising during the lease period, the lessee must first attempt to resolve the matter directly with the lessor. If a resolution cannot be reached or an agreement is not made, the lessee may request arbitration or mediation from the HandalStay.
(4) Lawful Use Lessees agree to use HandalStay exclusively for lawful purposes and in adherence to the terms outlined herein. Misuse, including fraudulent activity, system abuse, or any other prohibited conduct, may result in immediate account suspension, termination, and potential legal action.
(5) Liability for Damages Lessees are responsible for any damages, losses, or expenses incurred by HandalStay due to their non-compliance with these terms or any improper actions taken while using HandalStay.
(6) Prohibited Interference Lessees must not engage in actions that disrupt, damage, or interfere with the functionality of HandalStay, its systems, or its other Lessees. Any attempts to harm or exploit the platform will be subject to serious consequences.
(7) Indemnification Lessees agree to indemnify, defend, and hold HandalStay harmless against any claims, damages, liabilities, or expenses arising from their use of HandalStay or any breach of these terms.
7. Limitation of Liability and Service Availability
(1) Exclusion of Liability for Disruptions HandalStay is not liable for any technical disruptions or service interruptions caused by circumstances beyond its control, including but not limited to force majeure events.
(2) Right to Perform Maintenance HandalStay does not guarantee uninterrupted access to the platform or its data. HandalStay reserves the right to perform necessary technical maintenance, during which time access may be temporarily unavailable. The duration of such maintenance will depend on the scope and requirements of the work.
(3) Limitation of Liability HandalStay's liability is limited to damages directly resulting from deliberate intent. This limitation of liability applies to HandalStay itself as well as its employees, agents, and representatives. HandalStay will not be held liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages.
8. User Accounts
(1) Account Requirement Certain services on the HandalStay websites require Lessors and Lessees to create an account (referred to as the Lessee account hereafter). Lessors and Lessees must follow the instructions provided during the registration process to set up their account.
Account creation is limited to adults aged 18 or older who possess a valid payment method and have completed identity verification through the HandalStay platform. If identity verification is not completed, the operator may suspend or cancel the account and withhold or cancel any payments.
The identification documents accepted by HandalStay include passports, driver’s licenses, and other government-issued IDs recognized by the relevant country.
For verification, users must upload a photo of their ID through their account page. The Operator will then review the submitted ID and either approve or reject it.
The verification deadlines are as follows:
(2) Account Creation Lessors and Lessees can create an account by using a personal email address or a profile from a third-party service (e.g., Google). Alternatively, an account is created when users register for other HandalStay services via email and confirm their email address.
(3) Third-Party Service Integration If Lessors and Lessees create an account using a third-party service (e.g., Google), they grant HandalStay permission to access and use the information provided by that service, as permitted by the service's terms. HandalStay will also store the login token associated with that service. For more details on third-party service integration, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
(4) Account Suspension or Deletion HandalStay reserves the right to temporarily block or permanently delete user accounts, or take other necessary actions, if the user violates applicable laws, these Terms of Service, or other relevant contractual terms.
9. Privacy
(1) User Data HandalStay is committed to safeguarding User information. For detailed information, please refer to our Privacy Policy.
(2) Consent and Compliance Personal information is collected, processed, and used only with the User’s consent or when permitted by applicable law.
10. Final Provisions
(1) Governing Law This Agreement shall be interpreted and governed by the laws of the State of Georgia. Any disputes arising in connection with this Agreement must first be submitted to the HandalStay platform’s reporting and arbitration process. If the dispute is not resolved through the arbitration process, the courts located in the State of Georgia shall have exclusive jurisdiction.
(2) Severability If any provision of these Terms of Service is found to be invalid or unenforceable under applicable law, such invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions.
Last Updated: January 21st, 2026