Homestay advertised as clean found with unclean toilet, man wins Rs 66,500 payout

A homestay operator in Visakhapatnam has been ordered to pay Rs 66,500 after a customer complained about a dirty toilet and other issues with their accommodation. The District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission-I ruled in favor of the complainant, finding the homestay owner liable for poor service, unfair trade practices, and misleading advertising.

The homestay owner had advertised the property as clean and well-maintained, but upon arrival, the customer found broken electrical fittings, non-functional plumbing, unclean linen, and a lack of basic sanitation. The commission concluded that the property was untidy, unsafe, and poorly maintained, with a malfunctioning toilet. The homestay owner was ordered to refund Rs 16,500, pay Rs 30,000 in compensation, Rs 10,000 for misleading advertisements, and Rs 10,000 for litigation costs.

Consumers are advised to ensure that homestays match advertised safety, hygiene, and facility standards, as misleading representations and lack of basic amenities can result in deficiency in service.