Frequently Asked Questions

We know you have some questions and hopefully we have the answers! Here are set of common questions our users have asked us in the past. If it does not answer your concerns then please contact us with any questions and we will be happy to address them.

Renter Questions

How do I rent a storage listing?

How are hosts verified by the service?

  • Our service screens every host with the “verified” stamp on the listing page to prove they are who they say they are and they are the owner of the listing. All verified hosts with the verified stamp on their listing are required to provide proof of identification such as driver’s license, passport photos, or other forms of identification. Hosts also provide their phone number, email, address, and even a selfie photo.
  • We also ask our renters to review the listing to verify all information about the listing is correct. This will help provide a more trusted service for our renters and help good hosts with occupying their rental space.

How are hosts verified by the service?

  • Our service screens every host with the “verified” stamp on the listing page to prove they are who they say they are and they are the owner of the listing. All verified hosts with the verified stamp on their listing are required to provide proof of identification such as driver’s license, passport photos, or other forms of identification. Hosts also provide their phone number, email, address, and even a selfie photo.
  • We also ask our renters to review the listing to verify all information about the listing is correct. This will help provide a more trusted service for our renters and help good hosts with occupying their rental space.

What is the Service Fee charged by PeerStorage?

In order to keep PeerStorage running, we charge a 10% Service fee on every transaction. This is to cover the cost to operate the platform and to upgrade features to better serve our users. This service fee is what we use to provide the best platform and service we can for our customers.

How are payments handled?

PeerStorage makes payments easy, automatic, and secure. Payments are handled through our platform using a third-party payment system, Stripe. Stripe is the industry-leading payment system for marketplaces and businesses making it easier for all our customers.

Renters will pay for their booking after the host has accepted their reservation with a debit or credit card. Renters have two options for payment schedules. They can either pay for the full-rental upfront, or they can indicate to PeerStorage that they want to pay month-to-month payments. If renters choose to do month-to-month payments, they agree that PeerStorage will automatically charge their card each month on the same day the rental started until the renters cancel their reservation through PeerStorage and the Host.

Cash payments are not allowed at this time.

Can I choose month-to-month payments?

Renters do have the option to pay for their rentals on a month-to-month basis. In order to set up month-to-month payments, you must notify the Host and PeerStorage that you do not have an official move-out date and would like to do month-to-month. Renters will have to proceed to book a month-long rental with the listing of their choice, then PeerStorage will automatically charge their card each month on the same day the rental started until the renters cancel their reservation through PeerStorage and the Host.

If renters were required to pay first and last months’ rent upfront upon the booking, renters will have to notify PeerStorage and the Host at least 30 days in advance when you want to cancel your booking.

How do I know my items are safe?

  • All verified hosts have provided their driver’s license or another form of identification, phone number, email, and address. We make it our due diligence to verify all hosts are who they say they are so our rental customers feel safe using our service. A majority of the PeerStorage listings have lockable entrances to storage spaces that only you and the host will have access to. Renters may view the space before booking so you can make sure the space is right for you. There is nothing safer than someone watching over your stuff like it’s their own home. Our hosts will take good care of your belongings because they care for them as much as you do.
  • PeerStorage also provides a review system so you can see how others view the host or their space. This feedback system lets us know if the space is as it’s described in the listing.

How much does storage cost?

Hosts have control over how much they list their space per month. The rental rate is based upon the location, and size (sq. ft.) of the space making it competitive in any area across the US. PeerStorage lets hosts choose their rental rates but suggest 33%-50% lower than traditional self-storage units.

Rental rates are fixed for the duration of the reservation, meaning there will be no increased rental rates within the reservation period (move-in date – move-out date). No more being blindsided by rate hikes like traditional storage facilities!

How do payments work when the host requests first and last months rent upfront?

If a host requires the first and last month’s rent upfront upon booking, the first month’s payment will be paid, and the last month’s payment will be paid. The renter will book a one-month’s period to reserve the space and automatic month-to-month payments will begin the following month of the move-in date. The space will be reserved for as long as the space is being rented by the renter.  It is the renter’s sole responsibility to notify PeerStorage and the host 30 days in advance when they need to move out. PeerStorage will stop the next payment and cancel the reoccurring payments for the last month’s rent.

What is not allowed in storage?

It is the responsibility of the Renter to ensure that the items being stored will not cause any damage or harm to the space or to the owners of the space. Restricted items include:

  • Any hazardous or illegal items
  • Guns and ammunition
  • Fireworks
  • Hazardous waste or chemicals
  • Living or dead organisms
  • Pesticides and toxins
  • Drugs
  • Flammable materials
  • Stolen goods
  • Perishable food items

The Storage Host may specify additional restricted items, and will be listed in their posting. When placing a reservation, we recommend the Renter to disclose the types of items being stored. For additional information on storing possessions, please read through PeerStorage’s Terms & Conditions.

When and how often can I access my stored items?

Access to your belongings depends on the “Access times” displayed on the listing. There are also daily, weekly, or monthly listing types where renters can access their items a few times during those periods. Renters can always communicate with their hosts through the platform messaging service in your dashboard in times of need to access one belongings’s. We ask that you give your host at least 24-hour notice on when you need to access your things.

How do I cancel my booking while on month-to-month payments?

Renters who are on month-to-month payments, are required to notify PeerStorage and the host that you would like to end your rental. This shall be done through the PeerStorage messaging system with your host, through email at [email protected], or through our Contact Us page.

Renters who have paid the first and last month’s rent upfront, are to cancel their booking at least 30 days in advance before their next month’s payment.

Does the home owner have access to the rented storage space?

Access control depends on the listing and agreement by the Storage Host and Renter. Listings on PeerStorage are only meant for storage rental and are not intended for any other purposes. The Renter has the right to request control of access to the storage space within the terms of access times on the listing. There may be certain instances where the Storage Host needs access to the area, but this should always be written out in the listing before reserving their space. In the case of an emergency, the Storage Host has the right to access from the Renter to access the space. It is typical for hosts to control the access to the area and only allow access to the renter.

What if a host goes on vacation or isn’t home while I need to move out my stuff?

The Storage host should use PeerStorage’s messaging system to communicate with the Renter on any unforeseen absences from their property. A Storage host must notify the Renter if they will be gone from their property for at least 7 days or over the period of the Renter’s move-out date. If the Renter is denied access to their stuff due to the Storage host not being present on the property at the time of the Renters move-out date, the Renter will not be charged extra for extended storage, and the Storage host is liable to pay a fee to PeerStorage.

What happens to my stuff if it's not moved out by the move out date?

If a renter needs to extend their booking they need to re-reserve the space through PeerStorage. This will have to be communicated with the host and may be re-booked in the storage listings page if it’s still available. Our policies state the renter’s items have to be moved out by their selected move out date so the host can find other renters to occupy the space. In the event that PeerStorage cannot collect fees owed to PeerStorage and the host, or the renter is unable to move out their items by the move-out date, they will either be charged for another month’s rent, or face eviction or seizure of their stuff.

If the renter is on month-to-month payment terms with no set move-out date other than what was needed for the booking, the renter will continue automatic payments as necessary. If the renter notifies PeerStorage and the host that they would like to cancel payments and will move out, they must move out their stuff by the given move-out date or face another month’s payment charge.

If the items are not moved out by the move-out date and another renter has the space reserved, movers will have to be hired and the renter will be charged the cost of the movers in order to receive their items. If the renter does not pay for moving out their items for 60 days, their items are susceptible for auction or to be sold to cover the cost of the move out.

Does PeerStorage provide insurance for the Renter?

PeerStorage does not provide Renter insurance through our service. For your benefit and protection, insurance for your stored items is required. We encourage all Renters to check their home or renters insurance policy to determine if storage insurance is covered under their policy. If not, you may find affordable insurance coverage through Orange Door Insurance, Progressive Insurance, GEICO, amongst many other providers.

Are my items insured?

We recommend having comprehensive car insurance for vehicles, trailers, boats, RV’s, and other items on wheels. If you have insurance coverage, your item should be covered in one of our hosts’s locations. If you are storing items such as furniture, collectibles, business products, household goods, or the like, we recommend having renter’s insurance or collectibles insurance. The type of insurance will vary based on the types of times you are storing. Hosts are not liable for damages not directly caused by the host, themselves, If you have questions about your items, we recommend contacting your insurance agent to confirm your coverage. PeerStorage does not currently provide insurance for purchase. If you believe your items have been damaged and you need to file an insurance claim, please contact PeerStorage immediately at [email protected] or file a claim. 

Storage Host Questions

How do I make money as a Storage host?

List your unused space on our marketplace and provide your banking information, Paypal, or Stripe accounts. Renters will be able to pay for the rental in full or as month-to-month payments. Funds paid by renters will be held in our service until the host requests a payout which is located in your Dashboard Profile under “Payment Method”. To receive a payout, hosts must set up and connect their Stripe account, or bank account information where payments can be automatically deposited. All banking and credit/debit card information is stored securely by our service and not used for any other purpose. Once a listing is reserved and the renter has paid, the host will receive the first payout on the first day of your second billing period.

If a renter is on month-to-month payments to the host, PeerStorage will automatically deposit the host’s payment through the payment method they have chosen.

As a Storage host, what am I liable for?

Storage hosts are not liable for any damage that may occur to the Renters items unless the Storage host directly caused the damage. Storage hosts are liable for providing a clean, safe, and secure lockable space approved by the Renter. Please visit our Terms & Conditions page for further clarification on liability.

As a Storage host, do I pay to rent out my space?

Nope! Its free to list your space on our service! You can upgrade your listing to be featured on the home page to optimize occupancy for a small fee.

Can Storage hosts see or know the items being stored prior to reservation?

Storage hosts are encouraged to request what is being stored ahead of the move-in date. Use PeerStorage’s messaging system to communicate with Renters to provide a list of items that they need to store. The Renter may choose to not show the Storage host the particular items, but Storage hosts can assure that all items being stored must abide by our Terms & Conditions. Storage hosts may also show the space to the Renter to determine if it fits their needs as a storage space.

How should I charge my space?

PeerStorage provides a guide to pricing your space. Ultimately, it’s up to you, the Host, to list your space for whatever price you think it’s worth. The average price for different types of spaces below:

  • Bedroom: $155/month
  • Garage: $201/month
  • Shed: $104/month
  • RV Parking: $507/month
  • Closet: $60/month
  • Carport/Driveway: 268/month

As a Storage host, what if I am not at the property due to an emergency to let the renter access their items?

Storage hosts should designate a family member or close friend to provide access to property in the case of an emergency and the Storage host cannot be present to provide Renter access. Storage hosts must notify Renters if any emergency takes place during the Renters move out date. If the move out date is already established and the Storage host cannot provide access to the Renter, the Renter will not be charge for additional storage time. The Storage host may be liable to fees associated with not providing the Renter access to their stuff on the move out date.

As the Storage host, what if I need to access or use to the rented space?

As the Storage host, you agree to give up access to the space when a Renter reserves the space to store their items. In case of an emergency, the host may request access from the Renter if the Renter controls access to the space. If the Storage host needs the Renters items out of the storage space, we recommend they communicate this with the Renter to cancel the reservation through the service themselves. Storage hosts are required to provide a 30 day advanced notice, otherwise you will be charged a $75 fee (except in case of Terms & Conditions violations by the renter).

What are the requirements for being a Storage host?

Below is the list of requirements for listing your space on our marketplace:

In the case of home, shed, or property storage:

  • Must own or live on the property with a valid physical address. Must provide valid documentation of proof such as valid driver’s license, deed, or other valid proof of ownership or renter.
  • Provide email, phone number, and address
  • Clean space free from mold, mildew, water, and fire damage
  • Photos of space
  • Space that is not occupied by anyone or anything
  • If it’s a property that you don’t live in, then other proof of ownership shall be provided
  • No leaks, or previous damage
  • Must be older than age 18+ to sign up

In the case of vehicle storage:

  • Must own the property, parking lot, parking spot, or any other vehicle parking/storing areas
  • Must be clean of all debris, or obstructions which wouldn’t allow the vehicle to be safely stored

In the case of large spaces being rented out to multiple rental customers. Large spaces would preferred to be separately partitioned and secured. If the space is already being rented out and another Renter wants to rent the other half of the space, PeerStorage won’t stop them. Storage hosts must provide this information to both Renters ahead of time before renting out the same space to multiple Renters.

What if I have to remove the Renter’s items before their scheduled move out date?

  1. If a Storage host has to remove the Renter’s items for any reason before the scheduled move out date, the Storage host may be charged for any moving service that is needed for this unscheduled move. The Storage host will also have to refund the Renter for the days which they did not store in the Storage host rental space.
  2. If a moving service is not used, then the Storage host will only have to refund the Renter for the days which they did not store in the Storage hosts rental space.

What space can I rent out?

You may rent out all unused spaces which you believe someone will rent out for storage. Spaces may include:

  • Garage space, including space in the overhead
  • Closets
  • Parking spaces
  • Lots
  • Basements
  • Attics
  • Bedrooms
  • Storage sheds
  • Commercial real estate
  • Warehouses
  • Storage within an apartment complex

How does PeerStorage protect me from liability issues as a host?

PeerStorage exists to connect you to renters, generate passive income, and protect you from harm. Our goal is to help you rent out your unused storage space without fear of negative consequences such as damage.

PeerStorage provides you with protection with a $1,000 Damage Guarantee and our Terms and Conditions

We also help find and screen renters to make sure they’re the right fit for your space.

How do payouts work as a Host?

PeerStorage takes the work out of Hosts having to collect payments from each renter by either collecting the full payment upon booking or automatically charging the renter’s credit card on the same date each month as their start date. The renter pays after the host accepts their booking so when you receive a booking request and prior to moving their stuff in.

After a renter has paid, in order for a host to receive their payments, they have to request a payout through their dashboard. Payouts occur in 30-day billing periods, with the first payout on the first day of your second billing period. We hold payouts this way to protect both renters and hosts in the event that either party cancels prematurely.

For periods less than 30 days – shorter bookings or bookings with partial periods at the end (e.g a 40-day Booking will be broken into a 30-day initial period and a subsequent 10-day partial period). A partial period payout occurs at the conclusion of the booking. If a payout is requested prior to this 30-day period, payouts will be held until the end of the period.

What is the Host fee charged by PeerStorage?

In order to keep PeerStorage running, we charge a 3% Host fee on every transaction. This is to cover the cost of the transaction fee from Stripe that they charge on every transaction. Host receives 97% of their listing price.

How do I list my space on PeerStorage?

PeerStorage makes it simple and easy for you to get started hosting in just a few minutes. Check out our YouTube video on How To: List Your Space

  1. First, you must sign up for the service by clicking “Sign Up” at the top right corner.
  2. Then click Add New Listing
  3. Then answer a few questions about your listings such as:
    • Pricing
    • Space address
    • Listing type (Storage unit, parking, ect.)
    • Title
    • Description
    • Space size (W x L)
  4. Then click submit, and that’s it! Your listing will be reviewed and approved by PeerStorage.

Can I choose which reservations I want to approve?

Yes! Hosts review the details of every request under your My Reservations page. A pending reservation shows the renter’s name and profile, what they want to store, and how long they would like to rent out the space.

In order to provide quick and easy storage for our renters, hosts have a 48-hour approval window for all reservation requests. If you are unable to approve pending reservation requests, it will expire after 24 hours.

How do I view and respond to a PeerStorage message?

You received a booking request and new message from someone interested in your space on PeerStorage! What do I do now?

How to read your existing messages:

  1. Visit your PeerStorage Messages page
  2. Click the left arrow icon on the right side of the message to “View” and respond to the message.
  3. Write your message and click “Send”

Help on your reservation

What happens if my Storage host cancels my reservation?

Do not worry your money will be safe with us and a full refund will be provided.

What is the resolution center?

You can get in touch with us from our contact us section or you can email us about any questions or issues at [email protected].

What should I do if I forgot something at a place I rented?

Do not worry your item will be safe with your host. We also encourage you to provide a basic list of items you will be storing so they host knows what items are yours. We take pride in having the most trustworthy hosts who can contact you if they find one of your items. You can always contact us about your lost items, and we will contact the host to have a mutual visit time to collect items left behind.

Should I book if I have not heard back from the Storage host?

No you should not book your reservation. Better option is to  get in touch with us and we will provide you with the best possible solution for your storage needs.

Need to file a claim?

What are the steps to file a claim?

There are a few steps prior to filing a claim once you have discovered your property is damaged. Please follow the guidelines below:

  1. If your property has been stolen, contact law enforcement immediately and obtain a copy of the police report to submit with your claim.
  2. Document the property damage by taking videos and photos of the damage. This will help us better assist you in recovering your damaged property.
  3. Fill out our claims form at the link below as soon as possible. Make sure you submit the form no later than 14 days after you find your property was damaged or stolen. Feel free to also contact [email protected] or through our Contact us page.
  4. Include your current property or renters insurance.
  5. We may need proof of ownership, receipts, valuation or appraisal forms for certain items so please gather all the documentation related to ownership of the items.
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