1. Purpose and acceptance

These terms and conditions (the Terms) govern all bookings and stays at The White Camel (the Property). By making a booking, paying any amount, checking in, occupying the Property, or allowing any member of your party to occupy the Property, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms on behalf of yourself and every person in your party.

If you do not agree to these Terms, you may not occupy the Property.

Important notice: These Terms contain clauses that may limit the liability of the Owner and that require Guests to assume risk and provide indemnities. These clauses are an important part of the contract and must be read carefully.

2. Definitions and interpretation

• “Owner”, “we”, “us” or “our” means Black Sheep Fresnaye (Pty) Ltd, and where applicable its appointed property manager, employees, contractors and agents.
• “Guest”, “you” or “your” means the person making the booking and every person forming part of the booking, including minors, as well as any visitor invited onto the Property by any Guest.
• “Lead Guest” means the person who makes the booking and/or signs the check-in document and who remains responsible for compliance by the entire party.
• “Booking Confirmation” means the written confirmation issued by us (or our booking channel) recording dates, rates, occupancy, deposits and any special conditions.
• “Damage Deposit” (also referred to as a breakage or security deposit) means the refundable deposit held as security for damages, losses, missing items, excessive cleaning, penalties and other charges permitted by these Terms.
• “Incidental Charges” means additional goods or services requested or consumed during the stay and billed separately from accommodation and the Damage Deposit.

Headings are for convenience only and do not affect interpretation. Words importing the singular include the plural and vice versa.

3. Booking requirements

• Minimum age: At least one Guest must be 18 years or older and must act as the Lead Guest for the booking.
• Guest information: We may require the full names and identification/passport details of all Guests prior to arrival, and we may refuse check-in if required information is not provided.
• Right of admission: We reserve the right to refuse admission or to require departure if we reasonably believe a booking or stay involves fraud, misrepresentation, illegal activity, or risk to persons or property.

4. Rates, taxes and inclusions

Rates are quoted and payable in South African Rand (ZAR), unless expressly stated otherwise in the Booking Confirmation.

• Rates and inclusions are as stated in the Booking Confirmation.
• Rates generally exclude Incidental Charges and any optional services arranged during the stay.
• Taxes, statutory levies and government charges may change and, if applicable, will be charged at the prevailing rate permitted by law.

5. Deposits, payments and authorisations

A deposit, prepayment and/or credit card authorisation may be required to secure a booking, as set out in your Booking Confirmation.

• Payment method: We accept approved card payments and/or electronic funds transfer, subject to availability and confirmation by us.
• Cardholder verification: The card used to pay online may be required to be presented at check-in by the cardholder together with a passport or identity document, and we may require additional verification where necessary to prevent fraud.
• Failure to pay: If required payments are not received by the due date, we may cancel the booking and apply cancellation charges in accordance with these Terms and the Consumer Protection Act, 2008 (where applicable).
• Authorisation hold: We may pre-authorise a card for the Damage Deposit and/or for anticipated Incidental Charges. A pre-authorisation is not a charge but reduces the available balance on the card until released by your bank.

6. Damage deposit

A Damage Deposit is required for every stay unless we agree otherwise in writing. The amount and method (cash deposit or card pre-authorisation) will be stated in the Booking Confirmation or advised prior to arrival.

• Use of deposit: You authorise us to deduct from, retain, or charge against the Damage Deposit any amounts due for damages, breakages, missing items, extra cleaning, policy breaches, penalties, or other losses suffered by us as a result of any act or omission of any Guest or visitor.
• Evidence and costs: Where reasonably possible, we will provide a short description of the damage and the basis of the charge, and we may use supplier invoices, quotations, photographs, replacement cost or reasonable estimates to quantify the loss.
• Timing of refund: Subject to an inspection after check-out and confirmation that no amounts are outstanding, the balance of the Damage Deposit will be released or refunded within 48 hours after check-out.
• Insufficient deposit: If the Damage Deposit is not sufficient to cover amounts due, you remain liable for the shortfall and you authorise us to charge the payment card on file and/or to invoice you.

7. Cancellations, changes and no-shows

Cancellations or date changes must be requested in writing. A date change may be treated as a cancellation of the original booking and a new booking, depending on availability and pricing.

Where the South African Consumer Protection Act, 2008 applies, cancellation charges will be reasonable and will be assessed with reference to the notice period and our reasonable prospects of re-letting the accommodation. No cancellation fee will be charged where the booking cannot be honoured due to the death or hospitalisation of the person for whose benefit the booking was made (as contemplated in section 17(5) of the Act).

Unless a different policy is stated in your Booking Confirmation, the following guideline scale may apply (subject to reasonableness and any replacement booking we secure):

• More than 30 days before arrival: administrative fee and unrecoverable costs only, up to a maximum of 10% of the accommodation charge.
• 15 to 30 days before arrival: up to 50% of the accommodation charge for the cancelled nights.
• 7 to 14 days before arrival: up to 75% of the accommodation charge for the cancelled nights.
• 0 to 6 days before arrival, no-show, or early departure: up to 100% of the accommodation charge for the cancelled nights.

If we are able to re-let the cancelled nights, we will, where reasonably possible, reduce the cancellation charge to avoid being paid twice for the same nights, subject to our reasonable costs.

8. Check-in and check-out

• Check-in and check-out times are as stated in the Booking Confirmation or as advised prior to arrival.
• Early check-in or late check-out is subject to availability and may attract an additional fee.
• Only registered Guests may occupy the Property. Identification may be requested at check-in.

9. Occupancy, rooms and visitors

The Property consists of eight (8) rooms. Occupancy limits apply strictly for comfort, safety, insurance and compliance reasons.

• Maximum occupancy: A maximum of two (2) overnight Guests per room is permitted, unless we agree otherwise in writing. This means a maximum of sixteen (16) overnight Guests in total.
• No unauthorised overnight stays: Any person not listed as an overnight Guest is a visitor and may not stay overnight unless we approve it in writing and adjust the booking accordingly.
• Visitor day pass: Visitors are permitted only with prior approval and registration and are charged a day pass of ZAR 750 per visitor per day. Visitors must depart by the time we specify (or, if not specified, by 22:00).
• Responsibility: The Lead Guest is responsible for the conduct of all Guests and visitors and remains liable for any damage, loss, nuisance, penalties or costs caused by them.

10. Conduct, respect for neighbours and noise

The White Camel is located in a residential area. Guests must respect neighbours and keep noise to a reasonable level at all times.

• Quiet hours: 22:00 to 08:00 daily. During quiet hours, music must be off or kept to a low volume and voices must be kept down, including in outdoor areas, balconies and around the pool.
• No parties or events: Parties, DJs, large gatherings, or commercial events are not permitted without prior written approval.
• Amplified sound: Amplified sound that is audible from the street or in any public place may constitute a noise nuisance and is prohibited.
• Complaints and enforcement: If we receive a noise complaint (from neighbours, security, or authorities), we may require immediate compliance, dispatch a manager/contractor at your cost, and/or terminate the stay without refund where the breach is serious or repeated.

Guests must comply with applicable City of Cape Town by-laws and Western Cape noise regulations. Noise nuisances may be enforceable regardless of the time of day.

11. Care of the Property, breakages and cleaning

• You must keep the Property, furniture, fittings, appliances and contents in good order and condition and use them only for their intended purpose.
• No rearranging: Furniture may not be moved outside or between rooms without prior consent.
• No smoking indoors: Smoking (including vaping) is prohibited inside the Property. If smoking occurs indoors, an additional deep-cleaning and deodorising fee may be charged and deducted from the Damage Deposit.
• Rubbish and recycling: Guests must follow the Property’s waste separation and disposal instructions.
• Excessive cleaning: If we determine that additional cleaning is required due to the condition in which the Property is left (including stains, spills, soiling, or strong odours), additional cleaning charges will apply.

12. Keys, remotes, access codes and security

• Guests must keep gates closed and locked where applicable and must not allow unknown persons to enter the Property.
• Keys and remotes: Do not duplicate keys or remotes. Lost keys/remotes or a required lock change will be charged to the Lead Guest.
• Security systems: The Property is equipped with perimeter cameras and armed response. There is no on-site security guard.
• CCTV: Cameras are installed to monitor the exterior/perimeter for security purposes. Guests consent to such monitoring and acknowledge that CCTV does not guarantee safety.
• We are not responsible for loss or theft of personal items. Guests are encouraged to keep valuables secure and to maintain appropriate travel insurance.

13. Swimming pools and water features (important safety notice)

The swimming pools are not fenced or supervised by a lifeguard and are used entirely at your own risk.

• No lifeguard or supervision is provided.
• Children 12 years and under may not use the pools without an adult (18 years or older) present and actively supervising at all times. Guardians must remain within immediate reach of young children and must not rely on older children to supervise.
• No diving, running, pushing, or unsafe behaviour in or around the pool area.
• No glass in the pool area.

You acknowledge that swimming and pool areas present inherent risks (including serious injury or death). You accept these risks for yourself and your party, and you agree to supervise minors appropriately at all times.

14. Fire safety, braai and open flames

• Open flames (including candles) must be used responsibly, in stable holders, and never left unattended.
• Braai facilities (if provided) may be used only in designated areas and in accordance with any house instructions. Do not move braai equipment.
• During high-wind conditions or fire risk warnings, braai use may be restricted or prohibited. Guests must comply immediately with any such instruction.
• Fireworks, flares and sky lanterns are prohibited.
• Any fire damage, smoke damage, or call-outs caused by Guest conduct will be for the Lead Guest’s account.

15. Incidental charges and additional services

Incidental Charges are billed separately and must be settled before check-out. Incidental Charges may not be offset against, or paid from, the Damage Deposit.

Incidental Charges may include (without limitation):

• Laundry services and dry-cleaning arranged through us.
• Additional cleaning services, including mid-stay deep cleans or extra housekeeping requested by Guests.
• Replacement of lost keys/remotes, locksmith call-outs, and security call-outs caused by Guest error or negligence.
• Food and beverage items supplied by us, including minibar or stocked items where applicable.
• Maintenance call-outs caused by misuse, including blocked drains due to inappropriate items.
• Airport transfers and transport arranged through us.
• Excursions, tours, activities and reservations arranged by us as agent for third-party providers.
• Delivery fees, procurement services, and concierge or shopping services requested by Guests.

If any Incidental Charges remain unpaid at check-out, you authorise us to charge the payment card on file for the outstanding balance.

16. Utilities, internet and service interruptions

• We will take reasonable steps to provide water, electricity and internet access, but these services may be interrupted due to municipal supply issues, load shedding, maintenance, or circumstances beyond our control.
• We do not guarantee uninterrupted Wi-Fi or mobile signal, and no refund will be due solely due to service interruptions beyond our control.

17. Prohibited activities

• Illegal activity, including the use, possession, sale or distribution of illegal drugs, is prohibited.
• Weapons: Firearms and weapons are not permitted on the Property unless disclosed and permitted in writing.
• Commercial filming or photography, events, or any commercial use of the Property is prohibited without prior written consent.
• Any conduct that is unsafe, offensive, discriminatory, abusive, or that may create a nuisance is prohibited.

18. Pets

Pets are not permitted unless we provide prior written approval. Where approved, additional rules, cleaning charges and/or a pet deposit may apply.

19. Maintenance, emergencies and access

• We, or our contractors, may access the Property on reasonable notice to perform maintenance, repairs, compliance checks or emergency work. Where possible, we will notify the Lead Guest in advance.
• In an emergency or where we reasonably believe there is a risk to life, property or security, we may enter without notice.
• Guests must promptly report any damage, breakages, malfunctions or safety hazards.

20. Liability, medical aid and indemnity

Each Guest is responsible for ensuring that they have adequate medical aid and/or travel insurance, including cover for medical emergencies, evacuation and personal liability.

To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Owner is not liable for any loss, damage, injury, illness or death suffered by any Guest or visitor on or around the Property, whether arising from use of the pools, stairs, balconies, fireplaces, outdoor areas, parking, or any facilities and equipment.

You indemnify and hold the Owner harmless against any claim, loss, damage, liability, cost or expense (including legal costs on an attorney and own client scale where permitted) arising from any act or omission of any Guest or visitor, including any claim by a third party.

Nothing in these Terms limits any liability that cannot lawfully be excluded or limited under South African law.

21. Breach, eviction and termination

• If any Guest breaches these Terms, we may require immediate remedy of the breach.
• For serious or repeated breaches (including noise complaints, parties, illegal activity, violence, or security risks), we may terminate the stay with immediate effect, require all Guests and visitors to leave, and apply charges for damages and losses. In such circumstances, accommodation fees may be forfeited and the Damage Deposit may be applied, subject to law.
• If authorities, security or neighbours are called out due to Guest conduct, we may charge reasonable call-out and administrative fees.

22. Privacy and personal information

We process personal information for booking administration, security, and compliance purposes. Where applicable, we will handle personal information in line with South African privacy laws, including POPIA.

23. Governing law and jurisdiction

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa. The parties consent to the jurisdiction of the courts of South Africa in respect of any dispute arising from or related to these Terms or any stay at the Property.

24. General

• Severability: If any provision is found to be invalid or unenforceable, it will be severed and the remaining provisions will continue in full force.
• No waiver: Any failure by us to enforce a provision is not a waiver of that provision.
• Amendments: We may update these Terms from time to time. The version applicable to a booking is the version made available to you at the time of booking or check-in, unless law requires otherwise.
• Conflict: If there is a conflict between these Terms and the Booking Confirmation, the Booking Confirmation will prevail to the extent of the conflict on the specific point

Acknowledgement (optional)

If these Terms are signed or initialled, the signature is for confirmation of receipt and acceptance. Acceptance may also occur electronically, by payment, or by occupancy.