Question 1

Why can't I find this cottage listed on Airbnb or other booking platforms?

Accepted Answer

Our cottage is privately owned, allowing direct bookings with no extra fees from third-party platforms. This ensures you get the best value for your vacation. We value connecting with our guests and hope you return each year to create lasting memories.

Question 2

What is the parking situation?

Accepted Answer

Our private laneway accommodates two to three vehicles, depending on their size. We share a dead-end road parking area with our neighbour, which allows for one additional vehicle or space for your boat or jet skis. This arrangement can be discussed at the time of your booking.

Question 3

How do I check-in?

Accepted Answer

You will be provided with a keypad passcode prior to your arrival. This unique passcode will be initiated prior to your check-in and cancelled after check-out. You will not be provided with a key to the cottage.

Question 4

Is there early check-in/late check-out?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we may accommodate your request, subject to our bookings before and after your reservation. Please note that an additional fee may apply. Please check with your host for details.

Question 5

Do you charge a cleaning fee?

Accepted Answer

A cleaning fee is applied to each booking, starting at $175.00 + HST. This fee may vary based on capacity and other factors. Additionally, if your cottage stay exceeds 10 consecutive days, the cleaning fee will increase. We would be happy to discuss these details further at the time of booking.

Question 6

Do I have to clean the cottage?

Accepted Answer

The cottage has been fully cleaned/sanitized prior to your arrival. Cleaning supplies will be made available for your use throughout your stay.

Question 7

What about check-out?

Accepted Answer

Please follow all check-out instructions carefully, as requested by the host. Some examples are listed below, and a comprehensive list of instructions will be provided in the Welcome Guide:
 • Remove all your belongings, including food and beverage from the fridge and cupboards, and personal items.
 • The cottage should be left in clean/swept condition.
 • Any dish towels, bath mats etc. need to be put in the washing machine and started before you leave.
 • Any dirty dishes must be loaded into the dishwasher and started before you leave.
 • The cottage must be locked, all windows closed, TV and lights off.

Question 8

What will be supplied at the cottage?

Accepted Answer

This cottage will serve as your home away from home. We offer a fully equipped kitchen, which includes a refrigerator, stove with oven, dishwasher, microwave, drip coffee maker, Keurig, electric kettle, and Crock pot. Additional kitchen amenities include pots, pans, dinnerware, sheet pans, mixing bowls, utensils, as well as basic cooking oils and herbs & spices. Complete with liquid dish soap, dishwasher tabs, dish cloth, tea towels, limited paper towel. Outdoors, you may use the Propane Barbeque and barbeque utensils. Cleaning supplies will be made available for your use throughout your stay, including vacuum, broom with dustpan, mop, and bucket. Upon your arrival, you will find that the beds are made, complete with linens and pillows. The cottage features two full bathrooms, and we provide bath towels, hand towels, face cloths, bathmats, shampoo, conditioner, bar soap, hand soap, hair dryers, and limited toilet paper. Hot tub towels are also supplied. Note, all laundered items at this cottage, and limited, supplied laundry detergent is hypoallergenic. Moreover, first aid kit, fire extinguishers and more are supplied. For a comprehensive list of available amenities at the cottage, please refer to the “Welcome Guide,” which can be found in your welcome email, as well as in booklet form at the cottage.

Question 9

What should I bring?

Accepted Answer

Paper products, plastic wrap, aluminum foil, food (including condiments), and any specialty items you may require are not included. Anything you want to take to the beach, such as beach chairs, towels, toys, umbrella, etc. Locked, outdoor storage, for your bikes, personal items, is also available.

Question 10

Do you require a security deposit?

Accepted Answer

We require a $500 security deposit upon booking. A secure link is sent to you in your booking confirmation email and can be paid via credit card or e-transfer. The security deposit will be refunded within 48 hours of your check-out, contingent upon the approval of the inspection.

Question 11

I have more people in my party booking than the occupancy level permits, can an exception be made?

Accepted Answer

No, our Short-term Rental Licence sets our maximum occupancy and cannot be altered. This licence considers our cottage size, bedroom count, and parking space. Please note that these occupancy levels always apply, including day guests.

Question 12

What if I need to cancel my booking?

Accepted Answer

If you cancel your booking more than 30 days before your check-in date, you will receive a full refund of all payments made up to the date of cancellation. If you cancel your reservation less than 30 days prior to your check-in date, please be advised that you will not be eligible for a refund or the return of your security deposit. You may apply the deposit towards a reservation for another available date, please check with your host for details.

Question 13

Is there HST charged on the cottage rental?

Accepted Answer

‘A Place By The Lake’ operates as a registered business in Ontario, Canada; consequently, we will apply HST in addition to your rental rate.

Question 14

What is Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT), and why do I have to pay this?

Accepted Answer

In accordance with provincial legislation, the Corporation of the Municipality of Lambton Shores has approved the adoption of a mandatory Municipal Accommodation Tax.

Effective January 1, 2026, this establishment is required to charge the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) of 4% (plus HST) on the room rate of your stay. These fees are mandatory as per the Municipal Bylaw 45-2025.

Question 15

Is this cottage available for a long weekend rental?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All Long Weekend rentals are available at our cottage, as we operate as a year-round short-term rental property. During our low season, from September to June, we offer partial stays. In addition, weekly stays are preferred during our peak season, which runs from July to August. Partial stays during peak season may be available, upon request.

Question 16

Can I drink the water?

Accepted Answer

Tap water is safe for consumption. A Brita Filter is available in the refrigerator should you prefer filtered water.

Question 17

Can I use the hot tub?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we include the use of our hot tub for all our guests. The hot tub will be locked, and the lock code will be provided at check-in. The hot tub has been treated and cleaned prior to your arrival.

Question 18

Are smoking and vaping allowed?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely NO smoking and vaping allowed inside the cottage. You can smoke or vape outside, but please make sure to clean up any butts and toss them in the cans or ashtrays provided.

Question 19

It says pets are not permitted at the cottage; can an exception be made?

Accepted Answer

Pets are not allowed on the property, except for service dogs. An identification card may be requested to verify qualification before booking confirmation.

Question 20

Can we have fireworks at the cottage?

Accepted Answer

No. Fireworks are always prohibited at all cottages in Grand Bend.

Question 21

What do I do with my garbage?

Accepted Answer

During your stay, on-site outdoor garbage and recycling bins will be available for you to use. Scheduled curbside pick-up will occur on Tuesday mornings. If your stay includes a Monday evening or Tuesday, we kindly request that you roll the two bins to the designated area. After collection is complete, please retrieve the bins and return them to their storage location. Details regarding garbage and recyclables will be included in the "Welcome Guide".

Let's Connect!

"Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion."
Leigh Hunt

Let's Connect!

"Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion." Leigh Hunt

"Traveling in the company of those we love is home in motion."
Leigh Hunt