The Guide to Being a Good Space Provider

If you're a space provider who has just found their first renter, congratulations! We are so excited for your space-sharing journey. You might be wondering what you can do on your end to make this process run as smoothly as possible.

We are so glad you're wondering that because we want to help. That's why we put together this guide. After observing renter-provider relationships for some time, we've figured out some of the most important aspects of this process—from both sides. We've got a whole separate blog post for the renters, so they can have an understanding of how to be good to you! But this one is designed and written just for our space providers.

Why is this important?

Unless you have a lot of experience renting your space prior to signing up with us, you're probably not all that familiar with the rules and etiquette that comes with space sharing. You might be wondering why it even matters. Well, it does, for a multitude of reasons. Being a good provider allows you to build awesome business relationships with growing business owners in your community, and it also cultivates a positive environment for your renter. Lastly, when you show how great of a provider you are, you'll receive a rating on our site. So, if your renter moves on to their own space, other renters can see that you're a good provider, increasing your chances of getting your space booked.

The Guide

• House rules: Setting house rules makes expectations clear, minimizing risk for confusion on your renters part.
• Equipment: Think about how you want your equipment treated. Can they drop weights (if you have a gym)? Should they clean after every use? What if they break something? Are they liable?
• Procedures: Will you have closing procedures? Cleaning procedures?
• Access: Based on their use type, will they have a key?
• Create a connection: The connection we are referring to is your agreement or contract.
• In your agreements, outline all liabilities and legal expectations to prevent yourself from getting into an uncomfortable situation.
• Be as specific and detailed as possible. Your renter will still probably have questions for you, but being detailed puts you at less of a risk.
• Honor your connection. Whatever it is that you're promising to do, make sure you stick with it regardless of whether or not you like the situation.
• Develop a relationship with open communication: Communication is the key to making this business relationship work.
• Be honest and open about your expectations, wants, and needs.
• On the other hand, be receptive to whatever your renter is trying to communicate to you. They could be intimidated, so try to cultivate the kind of environment that encourages easy honesty.
• If complications or issues do arise, communicate to the best of your ability. Treat the situation and renter with respect, so you can both move on satisfied and without resentment when the problem is resolved.
• See how you can help make the renter thrive in your space.
• Be available for property needs: Prepare to have more responsibilities if you're going to rent out your building.
• If you get a maintenance request, take it seriously and as complete it as soon as possible. For example, if the heating isn't working, take care of as soon as possible, not just when you'll be utilizing the space.
• Use SpaceTogether for payment.
• By allowing us to process the payment, you become protected. For more information on this process, check out this blog post.

Before you go

Following this guide puts you in the position to be the best provider you can be. Being a great space provider sets you up for success in future endeavors and allows you to create lasting business relationships. Thanks for reading this blog and letting SpaceTogether help your business grow!