Lost and Found Policy for Small Hotels

Guests leave things behind every week. A clear process protects your staff and makes guests happy.

Procedure

1. Bag and label the item: date, room, finder
2. Record it in the lost & found log
3. Store valuables locked
4. Contact the guest through the booking channel
5. Ship at the guest's cost after payment, or arrange collection
6. Dispose of or donate unclaimed items after a fixed period you set, and record it

Special items

Hand passports, ID cards and payment cards to the guest or the police, following local guidance. Don't keep them in general storage.

Last reviewed 29 October 2026. This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Check the linked official sources for your case.