Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Ski Season Home in North Lake Tahoe
Thinking about a Lake Tahoe ski lease this winter? Whether you're planning a season-long stay near the slopes or coordinating a lease for your whole group, there's a bit more involved than a standard vacation rental booking.
Ski leases with Tahoe Rental Company run 4–6 months (4-month minimum), aren't bookable online, and require an application, credit check, and signed lease agreement before move-in.
Below, we've answered the most common questions about applying, deposits, utilities, and what's expected of tenants during the lease term — pulled directly from our Ski Lease Rentals, Obtaining a Ski Lease, and Ski Lease Terms pages. If you don't see your question here, reach out to our team — we're happy to help.
How long is a typical ski lease in Lake Tahoe?
Ski leases are generally 4–6 months, with a 4-month minimum. Leases typically start in November, December, or January and end in April or May.
Can I book a ski lease online?
No. Online booking isn't available for ski leases. If a home is listed on the Ski Lease page, it's available even if the calendar shows otherwise — you browse listings, review the description, check the Obtaining a Ski Lease and Ski Lease Terms pages, then contact the team to confirm availability and finalize the lease.
How do I apply for a ski lease?
Every adult who will be on the lease must fully complete the rental application. It's recommended that all adult members of the group be named on the lease, since lease terms are the responsibility of the named signers.
Is a credit check required?
Yes. A written application and credit check are required, along with previous ski lease references and a site visit. See the Obtaining a Ski Lease page for details. A credit report can be run by Tahoe Rental Company for a non-refundable fee, or you can run your own and forward it to them.
Do I need to submit anything else with my application?
A short bio of your group or family is welcome (not required) so owners know who's renting. All application materials — applications, bio, and credit report — should be submitted together as one packet, emailed to info@tahoerentalcompany.com.
What deposits are required for a ski lease?
A $1,000 non-refundable holding deposit is due at lease signing and is applied toward total rent; it's forfeited if you back out. A separate security deposit equal to one month's rent is also required.
When is full payment due?
The full ski lease balance is due 30 days prior to the lease start/arrival date.
Are there additional fees beyond rent?
Yes, a $100 administrative fee is added to the lease.
Are utilities included in the ski lease rate?
No. Power and gas are not included in the rental rate and must be transferred into the tenant's name before the lease starts, then transferred back to the owner at the end of the lease. Electric service in the area is provided by Liberty Utilities and gas service by Southwest Gas.
What are "fixed costs" and how are they handled?
A rough estimate for internet, trash, phone, and driveway snow removal (and spa service, if applicable) is collected as a fixed-rate amount at the start of the lease. This amount is subject to adjustment at lease end if actual costs run higher than what was collected.
Are pets allowed in ski lease homes?
Pets are not allowed unless a pet contract is in place and the owner grants permission.
Is smoking allowed?
No, smoking is prohibited both inside and on the property at all homes.
Who is required to be listed on the lease?
Every tenant who is part of the ski lease must be listed by name, address, email, and phone number. It's a violation of the lease agreement to have guests, or charge guest fees, for anyone not on the lease.
What's required for homes with a hot tub?
Hot tub maintenance by a professional service is required on all homes with hot tubs, typically billed bi-monthly or monthly and collected as part of the fixed costs. Most homeowners also require a full dump-and-scrub at the end of the lease.
Who is responsible for snow removal during the lease?
Tenants are responsible for shoveling snow from decks, walkways, and stairways after every storm. Driveway snow removal is arranged separately and billed as part of fixed costs.
What are the bear safety requirements?
All food and garbage must be properly stored due to the bear population in the area. Tenants are responsible for any bear break-ins caused by food or garbage left out.
When and how do I get my keys?
Keys are picked up at the Tahoe Rental Company office on the lease start date, once confirmation is received that power and gas have been transferred to the tenant's name — this requires providing Liberty Utilities and Southwest Gas account numbers. Keys are not issued after 4pm unless prior arrangements are made.
What cleaning is required at the end of the lease?
Professional carpet cleaning and deep cleaning is required on all homes at lease end. This is scheduled directly by Tahoe Rental Company.
What happens after I submit my application?
If your group is selected, a lease is drawn up for signature by both the owner and the renter.