Host Guide

Welcome to the SpotMate hosting community! By sharing your unused parking spot or storage cage, you're not only earning extra income but also helping your neighbours find convenient spaces right in your building.

As a host on SpotMate, you can:

• Earn passive income from spaces you're not using
• Set your own prices and availability
• Help your neighbours who need extra parking or storage
• Maintain full control over who uses your space and when
• Build community within your residential building

Before creating your listing, there are a few important things to check:

Check Your Strata By-Laws

Most strata schemes in NSW allow owners to sublet their parking spots and storage cages, but some have specific rules. Review your strata by-laws or contact your strata manager to confirm you're permitted to rent out your space. Look for clauses related to:

• Subletting of lot entitlements
• Use of common property and car parking
• Short-term rental restrictions

Verify You Can Sublet Your Space

If you're a tenant (not the owner), check your lease agreement. You may need written permission from your landlord or property manager before listing your allocated parking or storage space.

Understand Your Insurance Coverage

Review your contents insurance and strata insurance policies. While SpotMate facilitates the transaction, we recommend ensuring you have adequate coverage for any incidents that may occur in your space. Consider whether your insurance covers third-party use of your parking spot or storage cage.

A great listing helps you attract the right renters. Here's how to make yours stand out:

Write a Clear Title and Description

Your title should be descriptive and include key details. For example:

• "Secure Undercover Parking - B2 Level, Close to Lift"
• "Large Storage Cage - Ground Floor, Easy Access"
• "Covered Car Space - Suits SUV/4WD"

In your description, include:

• Exact location within the building (level, spot number)
• Size dimensions (especially for storage cages)
• Any restrictions (vehicle height limits, no motorcycles, etc.)
• Access hours and building security features

Pricing Tips

Competitive pricing helps you attract bookings. Based on Sydney market rates, we suggest:

Take Quality Photos

Good photos build trust and help renters understand what they're booking:

• Take photos in good lighting
• Show the full space from multiple angles
• Include photos of access points (lift, entrance, gates)
• Show any markers or signage (spot numbers, levels)
• Keep the space clean and empty for photos

Set Accurate Availability

Keep your calendar up to date to avoid double bookings. You can set recurring availability (e.g., weekdays only) or block out specific dates when you need the space yourself.

Responding to Requests

When you receive a booking request, you'll get a notification via email and in-app. We recommend responding within 24 hours to maintain a good host rating. Quick responses also help secure bookings before renters look elsewhere.

Accepting or Declining Bookings

You have full control over who uses your space. When reviewing a request, consider:

• The renter's profile and reviews from other hosts
• The booking dates and whether they work for you
• Any questions they've asked in their message

If you need to decline, you can provide a reason. Be respectful and consider suggesting alternative dates if available.

Calendar Management

Use the SpotMate calendar to block out dates you need your space, set recurring availability, and view all your upcoming bookings at a glance. Keeping your calendar accurate prevents disappointment for both you and potential renters.

Clear access instructions are essential for a smooth experience:

Clear Instructions

Provide detailed instructions on how to access the parking area or storage level. Include information about:

• Building entry points and after-hours access
• Garage entry codes or intercom procedures
• Lift access requirements for basement levels
• How to find your specific spot or cage

Key, Remote, or Access Card Arrangements

If your space requires a key, remote, or access card, arrange the handover before the booking starts. Options include:

• Meeting the renter in person for handover
• Using a secure key lockbox
• Arranging a spare remote through your building manager
• If your building uses app-based access, check if temporary access can be granted

Building Access Information

Include any relevant building-specific information such as visitor parking rules, security protocols, and who to contact if they encounter issues accessing the building.

Be Available for Questions

During the rental period, be responsive to messages from your renter. They may have questions about access, building rules, or other details. Quick responses help ensure a positive experience for everyone.

Handle Issues Promptly

If any issues arise during the rental, address them quickly. Whether it's an access problem, a question about building rules, or any other concern, prompt communication helps resolve issues before they become bigger problems. If you can't resolve an issue directly, contact SpotMate support for assistance.

Check Your Space's Condition

After each rental, take a moment to check that your space is in the same condition as before. For storage cages, ensure no items have been left behind. For parking spots, check for any damage or issues. If you notice anything concerning, document it with photos and contact SpotMate support immediately.

Leave a Review

Reviews help build trust in our community. After each rental, take a moment to leave an honest review for your renter. Mention if they were respectful of your space, communicated well, and followed any guidelines you provided. Good reviews help reliable renters build their reputation.

Payout Timing

Payouts are processed automatically after each successful booking completion. Funds are typically deposited into your nominated bank account within 3-5 business days after the rental ends. You can track all your earnings and payout status in your SpotMate dashboard.

Bank Account Setup

To receive payouts, you'll need to add your Australian bank account details in your profile settings. We require:

• Account holder name
• BSB number
• Account number

All payment processing is handled securely through Stripe. Your banking information is encrypted and never shared with renters.

Successful hosts on SpotMate follow these best practices:

• Respond quickly: Aim to respond to booking requests within a few hours. Fast responses lead to more confirmed bookings.
• Keep your calendar updated: Block out dates as soon as you know you'll need your space. This prevents awkward cancellations.
• Communicate clearly: Provide detailed access instructions and be available to answer questions.
• Be a good neighbour: Inform building security if you're expecting a renter to help smooth their access.
• Price competitively: Check similar listings in your area and price accordingly. Consider offering discounts for longer bookings.
• Maintain your space: Keep your parking spot or storage cage clean and well-maintained. First impressions matter.
• Build your reputation: Great reviews come from great experiences. Go the extra mile to help your renters.

Have questions or need help with hosting? Our support team is here for you.