10 Questions to Ask a Host Before You Book
By XtraSpace · Updated
Short answer
Before you book a space by the hour, ask the host what the rate includes, the exact access and end time, the headcount limit, noise and food rules, power, Wi-Fi and equipment, parking, setup and cleanup time, and the cancellation policy. Ask in the booking request, so the answers are on record.
The ten questions
Most disappointments with an hourly booking come from something nobody asked. These ten questions cover nearly all of them. Put the ones that matter for your booking into the request itself, or into the booking chat, so both of you can see the answers later.
- What exactly does the rate include: the whole space, furniture, equipment, AC?
- When can I get in, and when must I be out? Is setup time included?
- What is the maximum number of people?
- Are there noise limits, or quiet hours for neighbours?
- Can we bring food and drink? Is there a kitchen or water?
- How many power points are there, and is there Wi-Fi?
- Is there a screen, speaker, mirror or whiteboard I can use?
- Where can guests park, and how do they find the entrance?
- Who will be there to let us in, and how do I reach them on the day?
- What is your cancellation policy if my plans change?
Why cancellation matters most
XtraSpace leaves refunds to the host and guest, under the host's own cancellation policy, so this is the one answer you want in writing before you are confirmed. Ask it even when everything else is obvious.
If the answers change the price
Sometimes the answers show you need less than the listing offers, or more. You can send a new offer that reflects it, and the host can accept or counter. Nothing is agreed until the host accepts.