What should be in my Custom Host Rules?
Last updated on April 17, 2026
Guests booking on Spare Space are required to follow both our Terms of Use and your Custom Host Rules. These rules help guests understand what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to best use your space during their booking.
When listing your space, you can add Custom Host Rules directly in the listing form. Each listing can have its own rules depending on the type of activity (for example, a residential space may have different rules than a café or studio).
Your rules cannot be left blank - they’re an essential part of a complete listing.
What to include in your Custom Host Rules
Add clear and specific guidelines around:
- Access & entry: e.g., “Guests will receive access instructions 30 minutes before booking start time.”
- Permitted activities: e.g., “Only approved activities such as photo shoots or workshops allowed.”
- Noise or timing limits: e.g., “No loud music after 10 PM.”
- Capacity limits: e.g., “Maximum of 20 people allowed at a time.”
- Food, alcohol, and smoking policies: e.g., “No smoking inside the premises.”
- Setup and teardown: e.g., “All setup and wrap-up must be completed within the booking hours.” Security or insurance requirements: e.g., “Guests must provide valid permits or insurance if required.”
- Space care: e.g., “Furniture must be returned to original position after use.”
- Lock-up instructions: e.g., “Ensure all doors and windows are locked before leaving.”
Important to note
- Cleaning and trash removal should not be added as a guest responsibility. As a host, you’re responsible for preparing and resetting your space between bookings.
- Custom Host Rules cannot contradict Spare Space’s Terms of Use or booking policies (such as cancellations, damages, or refunds).
- You cannot use this section to add separate contracts or clauses outside of Spare Space’s platform.
- All rules must comply with local laws, safety, and zoning regulations.
Examples of clear and effective Custom Host Rules
- No loud music after 10 PM
- No smoking indoors
- No pets allowed unless approved in advance
- All rentals include setup and teardown time
- Furniture must be moved back to original position
- Guests must remove their equipment by end of booking
- Front door must be locked before leaving (use key code provided)
5. Why is my listing still pending?
Once you’ve submitted your space on Spare Space, it goes through a short review process to make sure it meets our hosting standards before going live on the marketplace. If your listing is still showing as Pending, here are some common reasons and how you can fix them:
Phone verification Make sure your phone number is verified. You can do this in your Account Settings - we’ll send you a quick OTP to confirm.
ID & Account verification Every host must complete their ID verification (Aadhaar, Passport, or Driving License) and link a bank account for payouts. Without this, your listing can’t be activated.
Profile requirements Ensure your profile includes:
Your real full name (first and last name)
A friendly profile photo of yourself
A verified email address
Please note: Business names, logos, or brand handles cannot be used as your display name, profile photo, or in your listing title and description.
Photo quality & accuracy
Your listing photos must clearly show the actual space you’re listing.
We recommend:
10+ high-quality photos (well-lit, sharp, and clear)
Photos that reflect the entire space and amenities
No blurry, dark, or watermarked images
If your photos don’t meet these standards, your listing may be held for review.
Space setup & completeness
Make sure your listing details match the space type and category you’ve selected:
Work & Meeting Spaces Should include: tables, chairs, Wi-Fi, and any AV equipment. If your space fits 20 people, photos must show seating and setup for 20.
Event Spaces Must be at least 300 sq. ft. and accommodate 10+ guests comfortably. Event listings must include photos of tables, chairs, restrooms, and any furnishings that come with the booking.
Other categories (Residential, Creative, Fitness, Outdoor, etc.) Your listing should show how the space can be used for its chosen activities — e.g., a residential space with a dining setup or a studio with shooting equipment.
Incomplete details
Ensure your listing has:
A clear title and detailed description
Hourly price and availability calendar
Accurate capacity and amenities
Custom host rules
Once everything is complete and verified, our team reviews and activates listings within 24–48 hours.
If your listing still shows as pending after that, please contact our support team at support@booksparespace.com for assistance.