We have previously reported on the EU Commission's recommendation regarding cancelled flights (asking airlines to make vouchers an attractive alternative to consumers instead of a refund - see here) due to COVID-19, as well as the situation on cancelled events in Germany (entitling consumers to vouchers not refunds - see here). In the meantime, in the UK the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) encouraged consumers to report (through an online form) if they had been affected by unfair cancellation terms as a result of COVID-19. So far this has resulted specifically in a closer investigation of the COVID-19 Taskforce (set up on March 20) as to holiday accommodation providers and their cancellation policies. Already one big provider - Vacation Rentals (responsible for Hoseasons and Cottages.com) - announced the reversal of their cancellation policy, which means consumers could expect a full refund (see here). The full refunds are due to consumers as it was unlawful to travel to the rented accommodation at the time and/or for the accommodation to be made available.
If you want to report on how the national enforcement authorities help with unfair cancellation policies in your country, please leave a comment!
