For Hosts

Hosting Guide

Everything you need to know to run a great space — from setting up your listing to handling the situations that occasionally come up.

Getting started

Follow these five steps and you'll be set up for a smooth, stress-free rental from day one.

Prepare your space

A clean, accessible space sets the tone for the entire rental relationship.

✓Clear out personal items and ensure only the rented area is accessible.
✓Sweep, clean, and check for moisture, leaks, or pest activity before listing.
✓Make sure the entry route is safe — no trip hazards, no blocked doorways.
✓Consider adding basic shelving or pallets to elevate stored items off the floor.
✓Take clear, well-lit photos for your listing — they're your first impression.

Create a listing that attracts the right renters

Honest, detailed listings get better renters and fewer surprises.

✓Describe the space accurately — dimensions, access hours, any restrictions.
✓Mention what's included: lighting, security, climate, nearby parking.
✓Be upfront about limitations (e.g. damp in heavy rain, no overnight vehicle access).
✓Set a fair price — check our Pricing Calculator for guidance based on your space type and location.
✓Respond to enquiries promptly. Renters move quickly when they find a good fit.

Review and approve booking requests

You're always in control of who rents your space.

✓Review each request carefully — check the renter's profile and verified status.
✓Approve requests you're comfortable with; decline politely if something doesn't feel right.
✓Once you approve, the renter's card is charged and the booking is confirmed.
✓Message your renter to coordinate their first access — a warm welcome goes a long way.
✓If you have questions before approving, use the message thread to ask.

Welcome your renter

The first access sets the expectations for the whole rental.

✓Meet your renter (or arrange key handoff) on their first day if possible.
✓Walk them through the space, entry procedure, and any house rules.
✓Share your preferred contact method for day-to-day communication.
✓Confirm what access hours look like in practice — not just what's on the listing.
✓Leave the space in the same condition it was when photographed.

Manage the ongoing rental

Month-to-month means staying on top of things — but it's mostly hands-off once you're set up.

✓Your renter is charged automatically each month — you'll receive your payout shortly after.
✓Check in occasionally to make sure the entry path is clear and accessible.
✓Respond to messages within 24 hours — it's all that's usually needed.
✓If you need to end the booking, give notice through your dashboard — no confrontation required.
✓Let your renter know of any planned changes (construction, landscaping, access changes) well in advance.

Handling common situations

Most rentals run smoothly. But when something comes up, here's how to handle it.

My renter isn't responding

Send a message through the platform first. If there's no response after 48 hours and you have an urgent concern (e.g. blocked access), contact SpaceNextDoor support. Don't remove or access a renter's belongings without going through proper channels.

My renter is accessing outside agreed hours

Start with a friendly message — often it's an honest misunderstanding. If it continues, clarify your access hours in writing through the platform. Persistent violations can be escalated to SpaceNextDoor support for mediation.

There's been a water leak or damage to the space

Notify your renter immediately, even if their items appear unaffected. Document the damage with photos. Contact SpaceNextDoor support if any of the renter's belongings were affected so we can help facilitate a resolution.

I'm concerned about what's being stored

If you have reason to believe prohibited or illegal items are being stored, contact SpaceNextDoor support straight away. Do not confront the renter directly or access their belongings without authorisation.

I need to end the booking early

Use the 'End Booking' option in your host dashboard. Your renter will be notified and given their final billing month, plus time to remove their belongings. If there's an urgent safety reason, contact support for expedited assistance.

My renter hasn't removed their things at the end of the rental

Send a reminder via the platform first. If the vacate deadline passes and items remain, contact SpaceNextDoor support before taking any action — we'll help coordinate next steps to protect both parties.

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