Hotel Key Dispute Resolution

Summary

Forgetting to return hotel keys can lead to disputes. If a host threatens legal action, confirm postal tracking, keep communication records, and consider legal consultation. You may also contact Booking.Com for mediation.

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I forgot to give back the keys of the booking.com hotel in Germany. When I realized it, I already had been to France. The booking.com host told me I have to bring them back, otherwise he has to charge me for changing the keys. After discussing for a while, we agreed on sending the keys back viá registered mail. As requested from the host, he wanted a video where I put the keys in the envelop. I did as he told me to and I've sent the letter. Now, weeks later he told me the key still did not arrive. He has a tracking number but it still didn't leave France. Now he has sent me an invoice over *€ and told me if I don't pay he will go to the police, but it is not my fault that the post office in France hasn't delivered it yet. Here is the message he sent me:
It sounds like a stressful situation, ****. Here are some steps you might consider:
- Confirm the tracking status with the postal service.
- Keep records of all communications with the host.
- If the host insists on legal action, consider consulting a lawyer specializing in international disputes.
- You may also want to contact Booking.com for mediation.
Is there anything specific you would like more information on?