Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about renting and listing on RentNeighbors.
Getting Started
What is RentNeighbors?
RentNeighbors is a hyperlocal peer-to-peer rental marketplace. It connects neighbors who own things they rarely use with people nearby who need them — tools, camping gear, party supplies, electronics, sporting equipment, and more.
How does it work?
Owners list items with photos, pricing, and availability. Renters browse, search, and book items nearby. You meet in person to exchange the item. Payments are handled securely through Stripe.
Is RentNeighbors free to use?
Creating an account and browsing listings is free. When a rental transaction occurs, a 10% platform fee is applied to the rental price. Owners receive 90% of the rental fee.
Do I need to verify my email?
Yes. You can browse listings without verifying, but you must verify your email before posting listings, booking rentals, or placing bids.
For Renters
How do I rent an item?
Find an item you need, select your rental dates, and complete checkout through Stripe. The owner will approve your request, and you'll arrange a pickup time.
What is a security deposit?
Some owners require a refundable security deposit to cover potential damage. The deposit amount is listed on the item page. It's returned when the item comes back in good condition.
Can I make a custom offer?
Yes. You can place a bid with your preferred dates and price. The owner can accept or decline your offer.
What if the item isn't as described?
You can file a dispute from the listing page. We encourage both parties to take check-in and check-out photos to document the item's condition.
How do I cancel a rental?
You can cancel a pending rental from your dashboard. If you've already paid, a refund will be processed automatically.
Do I need identity verification?
Yes. Before your first booking, you'll need to complete identity verification through Stripe Identity. This is a one-time process that helps keep the community safe.
For Owners
How do I list an item?
Click "Post a Listing" in the navigation bar. Add a title, description, photos (up to 5), pricing, location, and condition. Your listing will be live immediately.
How do I get paid?
Payments are processed through Stripe Connect. You'll set up a connected account in your payout settings. After a rental is completed, your share (90% of the rental fee) is transferred to your account.
Can I set daily and weekly pricing?
Yes. You can set a price per day, price per week, or both. When both are set, the system automatically calculates the best rate for the renter based on the rental duration.
How do I block dates?
On your listing page, use the availability calendar to block date ranges when the item isn't available. You can add an optional reason for each blocked period.
What if a renter damages my item?
Take check-out photos when the item is returned. If there's damage, you can file a dispute. The security deposit (if set) helps cover damage costs.
Can I pause my listing?
Yes. Edit your listing and change the status to "Paused." This hides it from search without deleting it. You can reactivate it anytime.
Payments & Pricing
What payment methods are accepted?
We accept all major credit and debit cards through Stripe's secure checkout.
How is the rental price calculated?
The price is based on the number of rental days and the owner's pricing. If a weekly rate is available and the rental is 7+ days, the weekly rate is used. A 10% platform fee is added to the rental price.
When do refunds happen?
Refunds are processed automatically when an owner declines a rental request, when a renter cancels a pending rental, or when a date conflict is detected.
Trust & Safety
How do I report a listing?
Click the flag icon on any listing card, or use the "Report" button on the listing detail page. Select a reason and we'll review it.
How do reviews work?
After a rental, both the renter and owner can leave a 1-5 star review with an optional comment. Reviews are visible on the listing page and user profiles.
What happens if I have a dispute?
You can file a dispute from the listing page for issues like unreturned deposits, false damage claims, or items not matching their description. Our team reviews disputes and works toward a resolution.
Still have questions? Message us through the platform or email support@rentneighbors.com.