Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about PrivatePads.
Booking
Browse listings, select your dates, and click 'Reserve'. You'll see a full price breakdown before confirming. Payment is processed securely through Stripe.
Yes. Once you're signed in and verified, you can message any host directly from their listing page.
Each host sets their own minimum stay requirement, which is shown on the listing. Most properties have a 1-night minimum.
Bookings should be made by the person who will be staying. This ensures our verification system works as intended.
Payments
Payments are processed securely through Stripe when you confirm your booking. The total includes the nightly rate, any cleaning fee, and the platform service fee.
You're charged the full amount when you confirm your booking. If you cancel within the listing's cancellation policy, you'll receive the applicable refund.
We accept all major credit and debit cards through Stripe. Some listings also offer direct payment options.
Hosts receive payouts directly to their connected bank account via Stripe after the guest checks in.
Privacy
Yes. We never share your personal details with other users or third parties. Communication happens through our secure messaging system.
No. Your email and phone number are never displayed publicly. Hosts can share their phone number with verified guests at their discretion.
We use minimal analytics to improve the platform. We do not sell or share your browsing data with third parties.
Yes. Contact us and we'll remove your account and associated data in accordance with data protection regulations.
Hosting
Sign up, navigate to the host dashboard, and click 'List your space'. Add photos, set your price, and publish. The process takes about 10 minutes.
PrivatePads charges a small service fee on each booking to cover payment processing and platform costs. The fee is transparent and shown in your earnings breakdown.
Absolutely. You have full control over your house rules, check-in/check-out times, minimum stay, and cancellation policy.
Use the 'Blocked Dates' section in your listing editor to block any dates when your property isn't available.
Yes. You can list as many properties as you like from a single host account.
Verification
Verification helps keep the platform safe for everyone. Verified guests can view full listing details and book spaces. Hosts can trust that their guests are genuine.
Submit your verification through your profile page. Our team reviews submissions and you'll be notified of the outcome.
Most verifications are reviewed within 24-48 hours. We'll notify you by email once your status is updated.
If your verification is rejected, you can re-submit with updated information. Contact support if you need help.
Cancellations
Hosts choose from three policies: Flexible (full refund up to 24 hours before), Moderate (full refund 5+ days before, 50% 1-5 days before), or Strict (full refund 14+ days before, 50% 7-14 days before).
Go to your bookings page and select the booking you want to cancel. The refund amount depends on the listing's cancellation policy and how far in advance you cancel.
Hosts can cancel bookings, but we discourage this. If a host cancels, you'll receive a full refund.
Refunds are processed within 5-10 business days, depending on your bank or card issuer.