Some of Britain's biggest holiday lettings companies have been reported to the competition regulator over concerns about their terms and conditions regarding refunds.
Consumer group Which? has alerted the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) about firms such as Sykes Holiday Cottages and Hoseasons.
It has received complaints from frustrated customers who have been unable to get their money back for holidays cancelled as a result of the coronavirus lockdown.
Which? believes the terms and conditions attached to bookings are giving property owners too much leeway and enabling them to refuse refunds.
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel magazine, said: "With the coronavirus outbreak wreaking havoc on holiday plans, it's extremely concerning to hear of so many people being refused refunds from some of the UK's biggest players in the holiday lettings market.
"The CMA must investigate, and where terms are unfair take action to ensure that companies act fairly so that holidaymakers are not left out of pocket for their cancelled holidays."
Sykes Holiday Cottages and Hoseasons both said they are doing all they can to support customers and property owners.
Earlier this week the CMA launched an investigation into cancellation and refund policies used by providers of holiday accommodation, weddings and private events, and nurseries and childcare.
