Our Community

Community Guidelines

Last updated: February 2026

Welcome to Our Community

SpotMate is more than just a platform for sharing parking spots and storage spaces — it's a community of neighbours helping neighbours. We're building something special here in Sydney's residential buildings, and that starts with how we treat each other.

These guidelines exist to ensure everyone has a positive experience on SpotMate. By using our platform, you agree to follow these principles and help us create a welcoming, trustworthy community for all.

Our Community Values

Our community is built on five core values that guide everything we do:

Respect

Treat others as you'd like to be treated. Every member of our community deserves courtesy and consideration, whether you're a host or a renter.

Honesty

Be truthful in your listings, communications, and reviews. Accurate descriptions and honest feedback help everyone make informed decisions.

Reliability

Honour your commitments. When you make a booking or accept one, follow through. Your neighbours are counting on you.

Safety

Prioritize everyone's wellbeing. Keep spaces accessible and hazard-free, and report any safety concerns promptly.

Inclusivity

Welcome all neighbours. SpotMate is for everyone in our community, regardless of background. We celebrate the diversity that makes our buildings vibrant places to live.

Being a Good Host

As a host, you're sharing your space with your neighbours. Here's how to provide a great experience:

  • Create accurate listings — Include clear photos, precise dimensions, and honest descriptions of your space. Mention any access restrictions or conditions.
  • Respond promptly — Answer enquiries within 24 hours. Quick responses show respect for your neighbours' time and build trust.
  • Communicate clearly — Provide clear instructions for accessing your space. Be upfront about any rules or expectations.
  • Honour your bookings — Once you confirm a booking, keep your commitment. Cancellations can leave your neighbours in a difficult situation.

Being a Good Renter

When you rent a space from a neighbour, you're a guest in their allocated area. Here's how to be a great one:

  • Respect the space — Treat the space as if it were your own. Keep it clean and don't exceed the agreed-upon usage.
  • Follow the rules — Adhere to any guidelines set by the host and respect building regulations. This includes parking within lines and not blocking access.
  • Communicate issues — If something goes wrong or you have concerns, reach out to your host promptly. Most issues can be resolved through open dialogue.
  • Leave honest reviews — Your feedback helps other community members and encourages hosts to maintain high standards. Be fair and constructive.

Communication Standards

Good communication is the foundation of trust. When interacting with other members:

  • Be respectful — Use polite, considerate language in all your messages. Remember you're talking to a neighbour you may see in the lift tomorrow.
  • Keep it professional — Stay focused on the booking at hand. Avoid overly personal questions or off-topic discussions.
  • Use platform messaging — Keep your communications on SpotMate. This protects both parties and creates a record if any issues arise.
  • No harassment — Harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. This includes repeated unwanted contact, threats, or intimidating behaviour.

What's Not Allowed

To keep our community safe and welcoming, the following behaviours are strictly prohibited:

  • x
    Discrimination — Refusing service or treating members differently based on race, religion, gender, sexuality, disability, or any protected characteristic.
  • x
    Harassment — Any unwelcome conduct that creates a hostile environment, including verbal abuse, stalking, or intimidation.
  • x
    Fraud and scams — Misrepresenting listings, attempting to circumvent our payment system, or any deceptive practices.
  • x
    Illegal activity — Using spaces for any unlawful purpose, including storing prohibited or hazardous items.
  • x
    Violating building rules — Breaking strata by-laws or building regulations. We all share these spaces, and rules exist for everyone's benefit.

Consequences of Violations

We take violations of these guidelines seriously. Depending on the severity and frequency of violations, consequences may include:

1
Warning — For minor or first-time violations, we'll issue a warning and explain what went wrong.
2
Temporary suspension — Repeated violations may result in temporary loss of access to the platform.
3
Permanent ban — Serious violations or a pattern of misconduct may lead to permanent removal from SpotMate.
4
Legal action — In cases involving fraud, theft, or other criminal activity, we may take legal action or report to authorities.

Reporting Concerns

If you witness or experience behaviour that violates these guidelines, please let us know. We investigate all reports and take appropriate action.

You can report concerns through:

SpotMate Support Team

We take all reports seriously and will respond within 24-48 hours.

support@spotmate.com.au

Reports can be made anonymously if preferred. We never share reporter details without permission.

Building a Better Community Together

These guidelines aren't just rules — they're a foundation for the kind of community we want to build together. When we all do our part, SpotMate becomes more than a platform; it becomes a way to strengthen the bonds between neighbours.

Thank you for being part of the SpotMate community.

Together, we're making Sydney's residential buildings better places to live — one parking spot and storage cage at a time.