Your Questions
Q9. What if my exchange partners cancel their holiday?
A9. When you agree to exchange with another member, you should always complete the 'Holiday Agreement Form' which can be downloaded from here or from the 'Member' pages of this site. Download the form. This is not a legally binding document, but it does serve as a commitment from the exchange party. As a general rule, once a member has signed this form they are committed to the agreement, unless exceptional circumstances permit, such as serious illness. top
Q10. What if I am unable to exchange homes once an agreement has been made?
A10. If you are unable to fulfil your holiday commitment for a genuine reason, it is essential that you notify your exchange partners immediately so that they have time to look for another offer. top
Q11. What if I receive a ‘better offer’ once I have agreed on an exchange?
A11. It is not acceptable to simply ‘change your mind’ or take up a better offer once a firm commitment has been made. Contact lots of different members initially, who match your requirements. Give yourself time to consider offers carefully and ensure that you are making an informed choice prior to acceptance. Don’t be afraid to ask for detailed information about the home and area, as well as lots of photos of the inside. Many members now have their own personal web site available.top
Q12. When should I book my flights?
A12. It is essential that all arrangements are finalised in writing, either by email or by letter, before booking flights or other travel details. In addition, we ask that you complete our ‘Holiday Agreement Form’ (see link to Member Information). This should be signed by both yourself and your exchange partners, and a copy forwarded to our office for our records. This form confirms a commitment from both parties. top
Q13. Will my house still be fully insured when I have guests staying?
A13. We recommend that you contact your household insurance company to confirm that the policy you hold covers any guests staying in your home. There is no special insurance clause for ‘home exchange’ so it is important that you tell your insurance company that these are non-paying guests and that you are not letting your home for a fee. Most insurance companies will ensure your home is still fully covered. top
Q14. I would like to swap cars – do I need special insurance cover?
A14. Some insurance companies may not cover for non-UK license holders, so it is advisable that you contact your car insurance company to add your exchange partner to your existing policy. An additional fee may be involved, which you can negotiate with your exchange partner if necessary. You must also ensure that you have adequate cover for the car you will be driving abroad. Ask for written confirmation and a copy of any exclusions or excess applicable. top
Q15. Are there many complaints?
A15. No. Merely a handful. Last year there were three. The commonest complaint is about cleanliness, which is why it is so important to leave your exchange home as you would like to find it.
Q.16 My question is not covered by the above list.
A.16. Please use this form to ask it.
Q1. Is it safe to leave my home with people I do not know?
A1. Most people share the same natural anxiety before making their first exchange. Our experience has been that members go out of their way to take extra special care of their exchange home. The majority of members are professional people with similar standards to your own. top
Q2. What preparations must I make for a home exchange?
A2. Our Guidelines pages take you through the necessary preparations. These cover everything from making initial contact to arranging who pays for household bills. top
Q3. My home is very ordinary and not in a tourist area. Will I still be able to exchange?
A3. All kinds of homes are offered from small flats to mansions. It is important to understand that many members are only looking for a clean and comfortable base from which to explore an unfamiliar country or region. Your place may be just what they are looking for. top
Q4. Is Intervac mainly for families? I'm single and often travel alone.
A4. No problem. Intervac is ideal for families, single people and friends travelling together. Similarly, home exchange is suitable for all age groups. Many members, for example, are retired and can travel at any time of year. top
Q5. What is the Hotlist and why is it important?
A5. This is a vital part of our service . We want to make sure that you find the holiday you are looking for. The Hotlist allows you to notify other members that you wish to exchange within the next eight weeks.top
Q6. How flexible can I be with the size of my party?
A6. If you are unsure, initially indicate an approximate number in your party on your listing. Once arrangements are firming up, be very specific. If friends are holidaying in the same area and want to stay with you for a few days, then it is only a courtesy to ask your hosts permission. top
Q7. How do I avoid a mismatch?
A7. Don't be afraid to ask the right questions. There are plenty of excellent offers available, so avoid obvious mismatches. For example, an exchange family with small children may not be ideal for your home if it is filled with fragile ornaments. Similarly, a family of five may not be appropriate for exchange with a studio apartment.top
Q8. Is Intervac the cheapest home exchange service available?
A8. No, but consider carefully what is being offered. Fees tend to reflect the quality of service given. You can also ask yourself if you want to trust your home to someone looking for a total freebie. top