Elkin, NC – September 28, 2011 – Lodgix.com, a web-based vacation rental management software solution, is teaming up with Travel Guard, a leader in travel insurance and emergency assistance services plans, to fully integrate insurance plan issuance and claims submission within the Lodgix.com vacation rental software platform.
The new “real-time” system allows guests to purchase both travel and accidental damage coverage at the time the reservation is made. Enrollment is submitted in real-time to Travel Guard and the guest is sent proof of coverage via email once the reservation has been confirmed.
“Vacation rental managers tell us repeatedly they’d like to find a way to streamline administration activities while increasing the level of service to their guests,” says Brent Kleinheksel, CEO of Lodgix.com. “This automated solution is a win / win for both the guest and the property manager as both groups are looking for ways to insure against losses resulting from cancellations and accidental property damage.”
Accidental Damage Coverage
The Lodgix.com / Travel Guard fully integrated solution can allow vacation rental owners and managers to avoid collecting security deposits which require additional bookkeeping, separate escrow accounts and additional processes for deposit collection and refunds. Accidental damage coverage doesn’t require the guest to tie up additional capital in a hefty security deposit and can help relieve the guest of the apprehension associated with the questions of if, when, and how much of their security deposit will actually be returned after checkout. Bookings may naturally increase as a result.
Vacation rental owners and managers also realize the additional benefit of not having to put their online reputation at risk when it’s necessary to retain a portion of the guest’s security deposit. Let’s face it, online review sites are everywhere and we’ve all encountered guests who swear “We didn’t break that lamp; it was broken when we arrived!” One negative review and bookings may be lost as a result. Accidental damage coverage can be the solution. Payment for damage is issued directly to the property owner or manager (not the guest) and claims can easily be submitted within Lodgix, saving your hard earned reputation and eliminating any confrontations with guests after the stay.
About Travel Guard
Travel Guard, a Chartis company and worldwide leader in travel insurance and assistance, provides products and services to millions of travelers around the globe, including a wide range of emergency services through its wholly-owned assistance centers located in Asia, Europe and the Americas. Travel Guard helps leisure and business travelers alike solve problems and manage risks. Travel Guard’s global reach, unparalleled service quality and proven operational capabilities allow clients to receive best-in-class care. Travel Guard’s suite of technology platforms enables seamless integration with all major travel distribution systems and supplier channels. The travel insurance products marketed by Travel Guard are underwritten by insurance company subsidiaries and affiliates of Chartis, Inc. Domestic insurance underwritten by National Union Fire Insurance Company of Pittsburgh, Pa., a Pennsylvania insurance company, with its principal place of business at 175 Water Street, New York, NY 10038. It is currently authorized to transact business in all states and the District of Columbia. NAIC No. 19445.This is only a brief description of the coverage(s) available. The Policy will contain reductions, limitations, exclusions and termination provisions. Coverage may not be available in all states. For additional information, please visit our website at www.travelguard.com/vacationrentals.
About Lodgix.com
Lodgix.com is a leading provider of web-based vacation rental management software for small to mid-size property owners and managers. Founded in 2006, by Brent Kleinheksel, who himself required a web-based solution for his own portfolio of vacation rentals, Lodgix now has hundreds of clients representing thousands of properties throughout the world. For more information, please contact Brent Kleinheksel at 877-593-2083 x3, or via email at sales@lodgix.com or visit their website at www.lodgix.com.