Ibis Budget Canberra guest charged $1,800 after shower steam triggers alarm

A traveler has been charged $1,825 by the Ibis Budget Canberra following a fire alarm triggered by steam from a shower. Simon He, who was staying in a $75 per night room, reported that the alarm went off after he completed a five-minute shower in a prefabricated bathroom pod.

He claims he followed a sign instructing him to ‘keep the door shut while showering’ and was unaware that steam could trigger the smoke detectors. He alleges the hotel charged his bank account without his explicit permission or prior knowledge.

The hotel disputes the claim, stating that the risks and associated fees regarding shower steam are explained during the check-in process. However, He maintains that he has not been provided with any written policy, booking terms, or signed documentation confirming his agreement to such a charge.