Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

General

When will thisspace come to my city?

In the near term, we are focusing our operations on the San Francisco Bay Area. thisspace is currently in “beta” mode, which means we are working closely with hosts and guests to learn and grow together. We are using these learnings to build a more robust platform which will enable us to expand to additional cities soon. If you are interested in thisspace, but live outside the San Francisco Bay Area let us know here. Your feedback will help shape our expansion strategy, so be sure to tell your friends as well! We’ll add you to our mailing list so that when we do come to your city, you’ll be the first to know.

What does it cost to be a host?

Nothing! It is 100% free to list on thisspace. We don't think it's right to charge hosts until they are making money from our platform. Instead, we charge a 20% service fee on each rental transaction. These fees help cover the cost of maintaining and improving our platform. In the future, high-volume hosts may have the option to switch to a subscription pricing option.

What kinds of spaces can be listed on thisspace?

We encourage hosts to be creative and re-imagine how their spaces can be shared and used for diverse purposes within their communities. We welcome a wide range of spaces on our platform, including: * Personal offices * Boardroom meeting spaces * Banquet halls * Kitchens * Classrooms * Multipurpose rooms (e.g. yoga/dance studios) * Conference/retreat centers

What kinds of people and organizations use thisspace?

While everyone is welcome on thisspace, we have built our platform to support the unique needs of nonprofits, civic spaces, and other mission-driven and community-oriented organizations.

Becoming A Host

How do I set pricing for my space on thisspace?

As a host, you have control over the pricing for your space on thisspace. You can set your own rates based on factors such as location, size, and amenities, and can adjust pricing as needed. If you are unsure how to set pricing for your space, thisspace can offer resources that can help you determine fair and competitive rates.

How do I list my space?

thisspace knows that your space is unique and vital to your community. This is why we personally onboard all of our hosts and can help with you setting pictures, policies, and pricing! You choose the spaces you want to list, then thisspace walks you through uploading photos, selecting the terms of use, designating the hours of availability and hourly rates. thisspace then finds like-minded, mission-driven short term guests. Requests for bookings come straight to your inbox and, upon your approval, thisspace collects the appropriate documents from the guest, processes the payments then sends you a check at the end of the month. Safe, simple, efficient.

What space can I list?

thisspace lists any & all spaces. We love sanctuaries for weddings and events, gardens for parties and pre-parties, classrooms, large rooms, small rooms, music rooms, offices, patios, terraces, labyrinths, party rooms, quiet rooms, cool rooms, rooms with couches, rooms without furniture, rooms with great acoustics, libraries, really nice hallways & kitchens for food! You choose which rooms, you approve the guests, & thisspace is there at every step.

How much does it cost to list my space?

Nothing! thisspace only collects a fee when your approved guests pay to book space - a 20% booking fee for service and support, and about 3% for secure processing.

Payments

How and when do I get paid for bookings?

thisspace uses Stripe to process payments, so you will need to set up a Stripe account. Hosts receive payment for bookings via direct deposit to their bank account. Payment is typically made within 7-10 days after the booking date.

Does thisspace collect a security deposit for bookings?

We do not collect a security deposit. When a guest requests to book space, they are agreeing to the space use policies. Inside these policies, they are assuming responsibility for any damages they incur during the duration of their booking.

Cancellations

What happens if a guest cancels their reservation?

We understand that every space is different and that a single cancellation policy does not fit all Booking circumstances. That’s why we provide a spectrum of options so that Hosts can choose the policy that works best for their space and business: 1. FLEXIBLE: Full refund up to 24 hours before event. Tenants may cancel their Booking until 24 hours before the event start time and will receive a full refund (excluding Booking Fees) of their Booking Price. Bookings cancellations submitted less than 24 hours before the Event start time are not refundable. 2. MODERATE: Full refund 7 days before event, 50% refund until 24 hours before event.Tenants may cancel their Booking until 7 days before the event start time and will receive a full refund (excluding all Fees) of their Booking Price. Tenants may cancel their Booking between 7 days and 24 hours before the event start time and receive a 50% refund (excluding Booking Fees) of their Booking Price. Booking cancellations submitted less than 24 hours before the Event start time are not refundable. 3. STANDARD: Full refund 30 days before event, 50% refund until 7 days before event. Tenants may cancel their Booking until 30 days before the event start time and will receive a full refund (excluding all Fees) of their Booking Price. Tenants may cancel their Booking between 30 days and 7 days before the event start time and receive a 50% refund (excluding Booking Fees) of their Booking Price. Cancellations submitted less than 7 days before the Event start time are not refundable. For more details please review our full cancellation policy.

Getting Started

What kinds of spaces can I rent on thisspace?

We partner with a wide array of host organizations so that we can offer space that meets the diverse needs of our tenant community. Our spaces include: * Personal offices * Boardroom meeting spaces * Banquet halls * Kitchens * Classrooms * Multipurpose rooms (e.g. yoga/dance studios) * Conference/retreat centers * Outdoor event space Each space on thisspace is unique, so please refer to the listing page for specific details and amenities. If you have unique needs for your event and are having trouble finding a suitable space, send us a message and we'll do our best to help you find your space.

What cities does thisspace currently operate in?

thisspace is currently operating in the San Francisco Bay Area. We chose to focus on a single market for our beta launch so that we could work closely with hosts and guests, deepen our understanding of their needs, and optimize our platform and services before expanding to new markets. If you are interested in thisspace, but live outside the San Francisco Bay Area let us know here. Your feedback will help shape our expansion strategy, so be sure to tell your friends as well! We’ll add you to our mailing list so that when we do come to your city, you’ll be the first to know.

Do I need to create an account?

No, you can browse all of our spaces as a visitor. An account is only needed when you try and book a space. When you do create an account, all of your information is securely stored and will never be sold.

Can I visit the space before booking?

Most of the information you need is available online. If it’s really necessary, we will do our best to accommodate. Reach out to us at hello@thisspace.com Also, once you book, you can communicate directly with the host.

Is there a lease?

thisspace is not a real estate agent and does not provide leases. The booking fees go toward the upkeep of the space and furthering the mission of the non-profit host.

Do I have to be religious?

No. Religious buildings are often the centers of the communities wether for study, charitable endeavours, or meetings and they also often have some really cool spaces. thisspace supports communities by connecting mission-driven individuals and groups with the available space in their community, and often that’s in a spiritual place.

I have some questions about a space. How can I contact the host to learn more?

Use the black "Contact host" button on the listing to message the host with your inquiry.

I'm interested in renting space for a month or longer. Can thisspace help with that?

Depending on the host venue, discounted rates for bookings for long-term rentals may be available, please contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Booking A Space

How do I book space?

1. Go to the thisspace website (https://thisspace.io/) and create an account. 2. Use the search function to find available spaces in your desired location. 3. Select the space that meets your needs and check the availability calendar to ensure that the space is free for your desired dates and times. 4. Click on the "Book Now" button and fill out the booking request form. 5. Once your booking request is submitted, the space owner will review it and confirm the booking if it's accepted. 6. Make the required payment to secure your booking.

Can I modify my booking after it has been confirmed?

To modify your booking, you should reach out to the host as soon as possible to discuss your options. Any modifications to your booking are subject to the host's approval and may be subject to additional fees or charges. The ability to modify your booking may depend on the specific policies of the host and the availability of the space.

How do I know if my booking request has been approved by the host?

After you submit a booking request on thisspace.io, the host has 24-48 hours to either approve or decline your request. You will receive an email notification once the host has made a decision. If your request is approved, the email will include the details of your reservation If your request is declined, the email will explain that your request has been declined, and you may need to search for another space or contact the host to discuss alternative options. It's important to check your email regularly and follow up if you haven't received a response within 48 hours.

Can I rent a space overnight?

Right now, thisspace spaces are not available for overnight bookings.

Can I book the space for someone else?

If you’re booking the space you are responsible for the space, including but not limited to the payment, the care, the insurance, and all legal obligations and ramifications

Can I call the space directly to ask some questions?

Sure! Once you book, you can communicate directly with the host. If you wish to speak with them prior to a booking please contact us at hello@thisspace.com.

What if I need the space for only 30 minutes? Or for 90 minutes?

thisspace works in 60 minute increments. If you need the space for only 30 minutes or for 90 minutes, you will gain a 30 minute cushion for set-up and clean-up!

Can I book the same space, at the same time, on the same day every week?

Sure! To inquire about scheduling a recurring booking, contact the host via the thisspace.io platform or through contact information provided on the space's page or your booking confirmation email. Then, we can even set up automatic billing with ACH which will make it easy for you and save the space processing fees.

What if I have a space I want to rent?

Right now, thisspace is working directly with churches and other community buildings. If you have such a building, we’d love to hear from you. Reach out to hello@thisspace.com

How long does a host have to respond to my booking request?

Hosts are expected to respond to booking requests within 72 hours. Repeated violations may result in removal of the space from the platform.

Can I have the email or phone number for the host?

thisspace has a messaging feature built directly into the platform to make communicating with hosts as easy as possible. For the safety and security of our users, we do not provide contact information for a host until after a booking is confirmed. thisspace is not responsible for, and disclaim all liability resulting from, any losses or harm to you resulting from sharing personal or sensitive information with other users, or communicating or engaging with users outside of the Platform. Please read our Services Agreement for more information.

What do I do if a host is being unresponsive?

We have built our platform to make it easy for hosts and guests to communicate with each other, however you may encounter a scenario where a host is being unresponsive. Prior to a confirmed booking, hosts are required to respond to booking requests and inquiries within 72 hours. Repeated violations can result in removal from the platform. Most hosts respond within 24 hours, however, if you are having trouble getting in touch with a host please contact us directly to resolve the issue. After a booking is confirmed. If you are having trouble getting in touch with a host, please reach out to us and we'll contact the host on your behalf.

Payments

When will I be charged for my rental?

You will be charged the full price of the rental, including all applicable fees, at the time of booking. You can book worry free thanks to the thisspace Grace Period policy, which provides a full-refund to any cancellations that occur within 24 hours of booking. For more information about the thisspace Grace Period policy, please view our cancellation policy.

Who do I pay?

Payment information is requested when your booking is confirmed and is processed securely through stripe.com Less a small percentage for processing fees, your booking fee will go entirely to your non-profit host to help further their good work.

When do I pay?

Payment information is requested when your booking is confirmed. All payments are processed securely through stripe.com

How do I pay?

thisspace accepts credit cards, debit cards and ACH securely through stripe.com. The booking fees go toward the upkeep of the space and furthering the good work of the non-profit host.

Can I pay in cash once I arrive at the space?

No. Payment must be completed when your booking is confirmed. thisspace accepts credit cards, debit cards and ACH.

What forms of payment do you accept?

At this time thisspace currently accepts payments from valid, non-prepaid credit and debit cards.

Pricing And Discounts

How much does it cost to use?

There’s no cost to join. Each non-profit host determines the fee for an hours use of each of their spaces. Once your booking request is approved, there will be no other, extra or hidden charges.

Are there any discounts if I need the space for the same time every week for many weeks?

Maybe. Some hosts may offer discounts for repeat bookings. Once you book a space through thisspace you’ll be able to communicate directly with the host. All booking fees help your non-profit host continue their good work.

Are there any discounts if I need the space for several hours in a row?

Maybe. Some hosts may offer discounts for multi-hour use. Once you book a space through thisspace you’ll be able to communicate directly with the host. All booking fees help your non-profit host continue their good work.

Are there any discounts for non-profits?

Maybe. Some hosts may offer discounts for non-profits and it will be clearly stated on the listing page. Some hosts only allow non-profits to book their space so their hourly rates reflect that commitment. All booking fees help your non-profit host continue their good work.

How does thisspace determine the space booking rates?

Each non-profit host determines the fee for an hours use of each of their spaces. Once your booking request is approved, there will be no other, extra or hidden charges.

I need space for a full day or longer. Can I get a discount on the hourly rate?

Due to the current limitations of our beta platform, spaces can only be listed as either pay-by-the-hour or pay-by-the-day, but not both. However, hosts have the ability to configure custom rates upon request. Many of our venue partners offer discounts for full-day or multi-day bookings. To inquire about a discount, use the "Contact host" feature on the listing page. We are actively working to enable more flexible booking options on our platform. In the meantime, if the available options don't meet your needs, please contact us to discuss the specifics of your event, and we may be able to provide an accommodation.

Cancellations

What is the cancellation and refund policy?

You can book worry free thanks to the thisspace Grace Period policy, which provides a full-refund to any cancellations that occur within 24 hours of booking, including all thisspace fees. After the 24-hour grace period the specific terms will vary depending upon the cancellation policy set by the Host and the amount of time left until your reservation. Hosts may select among three standardized cancellation policies: 1. FLEXIBLE: Full refund up to 24 hours before event. Tenants may cancel their Booking until 24 hours before the event start time and will receive a full refund (excluding Booking Fees) of their Booking Price. Bookings cancellations submitted less than 24 hours before the Event start time are not refundable. 2. MODERATE: Full refund 7 days before event, 50% refund until 24 hours before event.Tenants may cancel their Booking until 7 days before the event start time and will receive a full refund (excluding all Fees) of their Booking Price. Tenants may cancel their Booking between 7 days and 24 hours before the event start time and receive a 50% refund (excluding Booking Fees) of their Booking Price. Booking cancellations submitted less than 24 hours before the Event start time are not refundable. 3. STANDARD: Full refund 30 days before event, 50% refund until 7 days before event. Tenants may cancel their Booking until 30 days before the event start time and will receive a full refund (excluding all Fees) of their Booking Price. Tenants may cancel their Booking between 30 days and 7 days before the event start time and receive a 50% refund (excluding Booking Fees) of their Booking Price. Cancellations submitted less than 7 days before the Event start time are not refundable. Please see our full cancellation policy for additional details.

What if I book a space then need to cancel?

Although each space decides their cancellation policies, the standard thisspace cancellation policy is as follows: Guests may cancel their Booking until 30 days before the event start time and will receive a refund of their paid booking, excluding all processing fees (about 5%). Guests may cancel their booking up to 7 days before the event start time and receive a 50% refund of their paid booking, less processing fees. Cancellation requests submitted less than 7 days before the event start time are not refundable. Read the cancellation policies at the bottom of every space listing for specific details.

How do I cancel my booking?

To cancel your booking, you must send a message to the host to inform them of the cancellation. If you are eligible for a refund under the terms of your cancellation policy, thisspace will confirm your cancellation and initiate a refund within 48 hours. You will receive an email update when the refund has been initiated. Please allow 5-7 business days for the funds to show up in your account. Cancellations must be communicated through the thisspace platform in order to receive a refund. Please note: in some cases, the booking may still appear in your inbox after the cancellation has been confirmed. This is a known bug in our system which we are actively working to resolve, and it will not have any impact on your refund.

What happens if a host cancels my reservation?

In the event of a host-initiated cancellation, you will receive a full refund, including all thisspace service fees.

Using The Space

Do I have to clean the space after use?

Guests are generally expected to leave the space in the same condition as it was in when they arrived. The specific cleaning requirements may vary depending on the host and the space you are renting: Some hosts may include cleaning fees in the booking cost, which covers the cost of a professional cleaning service after your use. Other hosts may require you to clean the space yourself before leaving. It's important to review the specific cleaning requirements and expectations of the host before booking the space.

What are the covid precautions?

Appropriate covid policies are listed with each space, are determined by the space, and compliant with state and federal policies.

Are there restrictions as to what I can do in a space?

thisspace offers a wide range of space types and we encourage you to be creative in your use of space. While we aim to provide spaces that can serve your diverse needs, we also urge guests to be respectful of host rules and consider safety at all times. Specific restrictions may vary from space to space, depending on the usage rules set by the host, which can be found on the space listing page. These rules vary from host to host, so please read them carefully before booking to ensure your event complies with all host policies. By booking through thisspace, you agree to follow thisspace's policies as well as the Space Rules. You will also be responsible for any damages to the space caused by you or any of your invitees during the booking. thisspace does not tolerate illegal or inappropriate uses of space, as outlined in our Terms of Service.

I see there is a sanctuary available, can I book that room to play soccer?

Each space has their own set of rules. Check out the specific space for use allowance and restrictions.

Can I bring my pet?

Each space has its own set of rules that can be found in the listing.