Guest FAQs

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Can everyone be a guest?

A.Yes of course! It's a free world.

What are the different privacy types of spaces available?

A.We have different categories for the spaces available.
Shared rooms – where rooms are shared by guests i.e. you could have people staying in the same room. Think of it as a dormitory.
Private rooms – where the guests can have their own space and share other facilities such as kitchen, toilet/bathroom, living room and a garden (if they are lucky!)
Couch - the name says it all
Entire Space – where guests have the whole space, be it a flat/apartment, a boat or a castle!

What are the costs?

A. Registering as a member on FlatNav is free.
FlatNav charges guests a flat rate of 11% on all bookings. We like transparency hence a fixed service charge. This helps pay our small salaries to make sure you get the crème de la crème of the spaces available.

How do I use Launchpad?

A. Launchpad is your control panel where you see your bookings, change your personal details, see previous bookings/stays and do all the things to optimise your experience. It is very straightforward to use. After logging in, on the top of the homepage, you will see your name. Please click there and press Launchpad which will take you to the Control Panel. From there on, it's pretty simple to navigate around. If you need help using it, please contact us and we will be happy to walk you through it.

Shall I upload a profile picture?

A.You will need a profile picture to request a booking and it helps the host to identify you. Profile pictures also foster the very trust needed for communities like FlatNav to flourish. So let's all say cheeeeeese! and take that picture!

Is FlatNav safe?

A.On joining FlatNav, you become part of a community that is based on trust and sustainability, the very characteristics that define the new and emerging concept of Collaborative Consumption.

We believe that staying at a host's empty space will be mutually beneficial for the members and the community itself.

FlatNav endeavours to help optimise this experience of sharing by providing our members features which help them to make informed decisions.

Our portal is linked to social networks such as Facebook and has a very strong and robust internal review system. Both these features aid the vetting process, which in any community is done by the members themselves.

We have also set aside a section of the website which gives tips and advice on how to be safe. Flatnav.com/safety

But there is only so much an online community can do. In the end, the hosts and users remain fully responsible for their listing and bookings. We believe in you guys, so let's just help each other. Please don't forget to read the Terms and Conditions for more information.

What about fake properties?

A. All communities are based on trust and so is FlatNav. We believe people use our service in good faith, however we do understand that there are people (very few) who don't respect this concept and might leave a bitter taste in everyone's mouth.

FlatNav's robust review system and connections to social networks enables both guests and hosts to analyse and make informed decisions.

In the future, we plan to take pictures of most of the listings ourselves, thus helping our community to trust each other even more. We are also planning an address verification process which will help to identify any fake properties.

How do I contact a host?

A. Just go to host's property page and click the "talk to me" button. Write your message and voila!

Are there any maps of the listing?

A. Of course, you can see the location of every space on the listing page. For the privacy of our hosts, we only show the local area in the maps.

How do I review a property?

A. Once you stay at a property, you will be sent an email with a review request. You can also go to Launchpad>My Stays>Previous Stays and click the "leave review" button. Leaving a review increases trust within our community and we strongly encourage doing so.

Where can I find my booking details?

A. You can find them in your email mailbox ☺ or just go to Launchpad>My Stays

How about key and cleaning management (NAV+)?

A. We are proud to offer these services before anyone else in the industry. We believe in taking all the hassle out of finding the perfect place to stay. We will be helping the hosts manage their keys and arrange for the cleaning of the place when the guests leave. Guests should know the following details of NAV+ in order to help the process You will be asked the following at the time of the booking.


(1) When do you want the keys to be delivered to the property? You will need to call the key delivery department once you arrive in the country or when you are an hour away from the property.
ecourier
Phone: 0044 (0) 207 877 6500
You will need the some information when you call to arrange the delivery slot. This will be sent to you on the Booking Confirmation email
You will need the same information when you call to arrange the delivery slot. This will be sent to you on the Booking Confirmation email (2) The time you expect to vacate (check-out) the property. This is important as this helps the cleaner to come on time and get the keys from you.
If you wish to leave before your check out time, please call Kita Cleaning on 07557387385 (London) at least 3 hours before vacating the property

• The keys will be delivered to you by ecourier at the time you settle when you call them upon your arrival.

• After you have had that memorable stay, the cleaner will arrive just before you planned time to vacate and collect the keys from you.

Simple! (We know we say that a lot!)

How would I know if the property I booked has NAV+ on it?

A. If the space you booked has NAV+ on it, you will be asked for some extra details when you confirm your booking. These details include: Key delivery date and Expected time to vacate. You will also be told if your booking had NAV+ or not in your Booking Confirmation email.

What are the contacts for NAV+?

A. For key delivery/check in (please call at least an hour before arrival at the property) - 0044 (0) 0207 877 6500 or 0044 (0) 845 145 1000. You will need the following information when calling and arranging the delivery:
1. The name of the account : FlatNav
2. The account code : FN001
3. The FlatNav booking reference number : Found in your booking confirmation
4. Your name : You know it!
5. The full delivery address and the time for delivery

For cleaning/check out (its pre arranged as selected on the booking page by you but if you wish to change please give a 3 hour advance notice) - info@kitacleaning.co.uk or 0044 (0) 7557387385

How much does NAV+ cost?

A. Costs vary in different cities and also depend on the size of the listings.
NAV+ plus has two aspects of costs:
1-The delivery of the keys which is incurred by the host
2-The cleaning which is always paid by the guest
For an example: A 2 bedroom flat in Central London would cost the host £15 pounds and the guest £30 pounds.
Please note if NAV+ is selected for a property by the host, the cleaning charges shown at the booking process will be as suggested by Kita Cleaning Services, our partners for NAV+.

Does FlatNav plan to expand NAV+ coverage?

A. Of course we will! We plan to introduce this service everywhere and anywhere in the world!

So are NAV+ services provided by FlatNav?

A. FlatNav only arranges these services for you through third party companies.
We do keep your keys with us but the courier and cleaning companies are not owned by us.

What if my host has chosen NAV+ and I decide to change my check out time?

A. If your host has booked NAV+, your will hand over the keys to the cleaner who will to come at a specific time. Should you wish to change the time to vacate, please contact info@kitacleaning.co.uk or 0044 (0) 7557387385 with your address, name and booking ref number at least 3 hours before the time you want to leave.
If there is an emergency, please call us but don't leave without leaving the keys with somebody.

Who decides the check-in/check-out time?

A. It is up to hosts to decide the check-in and check-out time. Of course, should you require an earlier check-in or later check-out, it is better you talk to your host about it and agree on a time that will suit you both.
The cancellation policies also work in accordance to your check-in and check-out times.

How do I change my check-in time?

A. If, for some reason, you need a different check-in time than what was initially agreed, please talk directly to your host about it. As long as you agree on a time, it's all good!

NAV+
In case your host opted for NAV+ services and you gave an expected date of key delivery and departure time on the booking page, then please contact the following.
For check-in time: contact 0044 (0) 0207 877 6500 or 0044 (0) 845 145 1000

For check out time: contact info@kitacleaning.co.uk or 0044 (0) 7557387385

It is very important that you give a notice of at least 3 hours to change these details.

We kindly remind you that the cancellation policies also work in accordance to your check-in and check-out times.

How do I change my booking?

A. If you want to change the dates of your stay, you will have to talk to your host about it, and agree with her/him on different dates.

A change in property/space may count as a cancellation and the apt policy will apply.

What should I do if I change my check-out time?

A. If your host has opted for NAV+ services, you need to notify Kita Cleaning Services at info@kitacleaning.co.uk or 0044 (0) 7557387385 at least 3 hours before the time you plan to vacate. Please note, in no circumstances should you leave the property without handing the keys over to the cleaner.

If for some reason you can't sync the time with the cleaner, please contact us and we will sort it out for you.

If your host hasn't selected NAV+ then no problem, just contact your host regarding your check-out time.

What if my check-out time is late at night?

A. If this is the case, then your host would have already arranged something with you.
There will be someone to pick the keys up from you, either the host or the cleaner (If NAV+ were selected)

I confirmed and paid for a booking, now what?

A. Once you pay and receive a confirmation email, it means your booking has been confirmed. If you want to contact your host and confirm this with him/her for additional peace of mind you are more than welcome to do so.

My number of guests has changed what should I do?

A. Please contact your host in that case. He/she will be able to advisee if he/she can accommodate.

What happens if I turn up and there is no host?

A. We hope and believe this won't happen with anyone! However, if you do find yourself in such a situation please contact your host as they might be delayed somewhere. If you can't get hold of host, please contact us and we will help you.

Do I have to request for all bookings?

A. Yes. We have to build a certain amount of trust on FlatNav before we open "One Click Bookings"

When should I arrive at the property?

A. During the booking process you would have had a chat about this with your host. So please arrive on time.

If you do get delayed, please notify your host ASAP.

If your host has chosen NAV+ then please arrive at the time you notified the courier company when you called them. Please keep in touch with them if you are getting late. Please note failure to notify can lead to extra charges being incurred by you.

When I search why can't I see the exact address of the property?

A. For privacy purpose we only show the nearby area rather than the exact location.

When do I get the full details about the property and the host?

A. When your payment is processed and your booking is confirmed. You will receive an email with your host's details.

Should I book a property without any reviews?

A. There is always a start! If you like the place and if you are satisfied after talking to the host – why not! But don't forget to leave a review after you have stayed there, so others don't have to go through the same dilemma.

How does the booking process work?

A. A guest finds a property he/she likes and requests a booking. The host then reviews the guest's profile and makes a decision in 24 hours. Once the decision is made, the guest is asked to either pay and get the booking confirmed or find alternative accommodation, if the host rejected the request.
The host is paid 24 hours after the check in time.

Please go to How it works page and see the interactive video which will explain in detail.

Why should I use FlatNav for payment and transactions?

A. A few reasons – of course!

1. It's a safe and secure way to transact
2. We can also manage your keys and cleaning (in some cities to start with)
3. You can easily screen your guests using all the features we have built in the system
And its fun! You get to meet new and exciting people while helping to create a green and sustainable future.

How do I pay?

A. You can pay either using your Paypal account or a using any major credit card.

What about any taxes i.e. VAT or GST?

A. UK based companies have to charge VAT on the commission they charge from UK based customers.
Flatnav charges VAT on their commission from UK hosts or guest. Please note that the VAT is only payable on the services charges of FlatNav and not on the whole value of the rental.

hat about invoices?

Invoices will be emailed once your payment is through and your booking is confirmed.

Does FlatNav keep a security deposit?

FlatNav can only process a security deposit on behalf of the host when NAV+ services are selected (currently available in London, UK only). FlatNav returns the deposits 48 hours after the check-out, if no contact/complaints have been made by the host. Hosts, however, can always request for a security deposit from their guest. This is normally paid in cash when the guest arrives at the property but any other means of transferring these funds should be agreed between the two parties. Please see properties page for any deposits demanded by the host. This deposit acts as a mini insurance for the host, should anything goes wrong with the property.

How is security deposits handled?

A. If NAV+ services are not selected then it is the responsibility of the host and guest to sort out the security deposits amongst themselves. Most of the time, the host would expect the deposit to be paid in cash when the guests arrive.
Please make sure you, as a guest, have agreed with the host regarding the submission and return of deposit, prior to the arrival.

What about cancellations?

A. The hosts are given a choice of 4 policies to choose from, when uploading a new property. They are as follows:

One Day
If guest cancels 24 hours prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 100%.
If guest cancels within 24 hours of the check-in time, the guest would be charged monies equivalent to the first night and refunded the rest. If the guest decides to leave early, guest would be charged for the night guest is giving such a notice plus 1 night, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rest of the nights would be refunded.

Five Day
If guest cancels 5 days prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 100%.
If guest cancels within 5 days to the check in, the guest will receive 50% refund.
If the guest decides to leave early, guest would be charged for the night guest is giving such a notice plus 2 nights, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rent of the nights would be refunded.

Seven Day
If guest cancels 7 days prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 50%. If guest cancels within 7 days to check in, the guest receives 25% refund. If the guest decides to leave early, guest would be charged for the night guest is giving such a notice plus 3 nights, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rent of the nights would be refunded.

Fourteen day
If guest cancels 14 days prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 50%. If guest cancels within 14 days to check in, the guest receives 25% refund. If the guest decides to leave early, guest would be charged for the night guest is giving such a notice plus 4 nights, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rent of the nights would be refunded.

If you think these are too hard or too lenient, don't hesitate to write to us. We are here to listen to you!

Q. What about refunds?

A. Refunds are calculated in accordance with the cancellation policies.
We will contact you and the host directly should a refund be due.
If you need any help regarding your refund process please don't hesitate to contact us at info@flatnav.com
If you want to issue a refund to your host, we would recommend you settle this amongst each other. If for some reason, this is not possible please contact us and we will help you out.

How long does the host have to respond to my booking request?

A. The Host has to respond to a booking request in 24hours.
If she/he accepted your booking request, then you have to pay through our secure server to get the booking confirmed.
If the host rejected your booking request, then FlatNav will help you find an alternative accommodation!

Are pets allowed in the properties?

A. Each host can decide if they accept pets or not. Just look at the amenities on the listing page, or contact the host by using the Talk To Me button on the listing page.

I changed my mind and I want to cancel a pending reservation, is it possible?

A. If your reservation has not been accepted by the Host, please go on your Launchpad > Your Trips > Pending Confirmations> Cancel Request. There is no charge to do this. If the booking is accepted and you want to cancel, the Cancellation Policy of the property applies. This means you will be refunded/charged accordingly.
Please contact info@flatnav.com or see the cancellation policy details on the property listing page.

When do I know my reservation request has been accepted?

A. When the Host has accepted your reservation, you will receive an email and message in your mailbox. You can also check it on your Launchpad > My Trips > Pending Reservations. If the button "Review and Pay" has appeared, your reservation is accepted! Just click it, make the payment and voila! All done!

How do I cancel?

A. You can cancel your bookings by sending an email to cancel@flatnav.com
Please note that you may be charged according to the cancellation policy of the listings. Please also note cancellations are not confirmed unless FlatNav contacts you.
Please check the cancellation policy before cancelling your booking.

Can a host cancel on me?

A. Normally hosts don't cancel unless they really have to. But yes, they can cancel as in the end it's their property and their space.
We do penalise the host if they cancel un-necessarily and also refund all (including our service charge) to you.
We will also help you to book alternative accommodation, should you require any assistance.
Don't hesitate to contact us!

What's the minimum length of stay?

A. This is set by your host and would be included in the property listing page. It varies for every property.

How does reviewing work?

A. Each guest is invited to leave a review about the property after their booking has finished. The reviews will show on your host's property listing page. Your hosts will also be invited to leave reviews about you. This will help the other hosts when accepting you as a guest.
Please leave a review as soon as your stay is over. This helps us strengthen the trust within the FlatNav community!

What shall I include in "About me" Section

A. You should tell how awesome you are and why you will make a great host! (if you are listing your space)
Simple!

How much time do I get to pay once the booking is accepted?

A. You got 24 hours to respond once the booking is accepted. If you don't pay within that time, your booking request will be automatically deleted and you would have to make a booking request again.

Guest FAQs

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Can everyone host?

A. Anyone who has a spare couch, extra bedroom, an empty apartment or who is travelling and want to make their space pay for itself, can host. You should, however, check with your mortgage providers, landlords or any authorities responsible for regulating your space, that being a short term host is fair and legal.

Can professional property managers and Bed and Breakfast owners list on FlatNav?

A. Yes of course – we actually foster property managers and BnB owners to advertise their flats and apartments on FlatNav. Its FREE so can only be beneficial for their business. There will also be perks for them in due course!

What are the costs?

A. Listing on FlatNav is free. FlatNav charges Hosts only 3% of the total rent to process the payment on their behalf.

Do I have to pay to list my space?

A. NO. You only pay a service charge of 3% when a booking takes place.

What are the different privacy types of spaces available?

A. We have different categories for the spaces available. Shared rooms – where rooms are shared by guests i.e. you could have people staying in the same room. Think of it as a dormitory.
Private rooms – where the guests can have their own space and share other facilities such as kitchen, toilet/bathroom, living room and a garden (if they are lucky!)
Couch - the name says it all
Entire Space – where guests have the whole space, be it a flat/apartment, a boat or a castle!

What is the minimum length of stay?

A. That depends on you as a host! You will be given the option when you upload your property on FlatNav.

How easy is the listing process?

A. One word – Very! Just click on "list your space" at the top of this page and see for yourself.

Do I have to add my property myself?

A. Yes – FlatNav doesn't manage any properties so all listings have to be uploaded by either hosts or property managers.

What should my property description/details include?

A. This is a very important aspect and we expect the hosts to give as much information as possible to make the process easy for both parties. It should include details such as:

• The entrance code if any
• The condition of the property
• If toiletries will be provided or no
• If the guest can help themselves with the breakfast
• Any house rules
• Any electricity, heating, hot water problems or details.
• Description of the general area and the neighbours.
• Description of the building i.e. private block, ex council, co-op.
• List of some of the amenities
• Telling a little about yourself

It is very important that you input correct information. FlatNav reserves the right to hold back any funds towards a booking if the guest complains about the discrepancies between the descriptions/listing and the actual place. Please remember the guests have only read and seen your place on the web so they are fully trusting you (and so is FlatNav!)

What about pictures of my space?

A. We encourage hosts to upload at least five pictures of their space. Here are some of the tips:

Take the pictures from a slight height and from a corner
Use good lighting (or day light)
Take pictures of the exterior of the property
Make pictures clutter free

If you need anymore tips and help with regards to picture quality please contact us.

How many photos can I have for my property

A. The more the merrier.

How do I use Launchpad?

A. Launchpad is your control panel where you see your bookings, change the property details, add a new availability, manage your funds and do all the things to optimise your experience. It is very straightforward to use. Click on the drop down (next to your name once logged in) on the main page, and select Launchpad which will take you to the Control Panel. From there on, it's pretty simple to navigate around. If you need help using it, please contact us and we will be happy to walk you through it.

Should I have a profile picture?

A. Yes, we encourage both hosts and guests to have a very clear (and smiling!) profile picture. This helps the guest to identify you, should you chose to manage your keys yourself. It also has an impact on the rentability of your place.

How do I make a property available?

A. We have made it very simple. You can do this with a few clicks in your Launchpad>My Listings>Listings menu. A very user friendly menu awaits you there.

How do I come at the top of the search results?

A. 1- More pictures and details 2- Good description 3- More bookings 4- Good reviews Simple!

I want to change my password, how do I do that?

A. Simple! Go to Launchpad>My Account

I forgot my password, what should I do?

A. We all do it from time to time! Click Forgot Password on the Login Page, and we will send you an email with instructions on how to get a new one.

What are NAV+ services?

A. We are proud to offer these services before anyone else in the industry. We believe in taking all the hassle out in renting or finding the perfect place to stay.
We will be helping the hosts manage their keys and arrange for the cleaning of the place.
There are a few things to be taken care of:
• Your guest will be asked the following at the time of the booking.
• (1) When do you want the keys to be delivered to the property?
• (2) When do you expect to vacate (check-out) the property

• The keys will be delivered to your guest through a courier service.
• After your guest has had that memorable stay, the cleaner will arrive just before their planned check-out time and collect the keys from them. Clean the flat and return the keys to us. Simple! (We know we say that a lot!)

Why should I use NAV+?

A. Nav+ allows you have the peace of mind of not worrying about the hassle of delivery of keys and cleaning. This mean you can rent your space out when you go away travelling (read free holidays!)

Will FlatNav manage keys of my space?

A. FlatNav aims to provide Value Added Services to its customers and Key Handling is one of them. We call them NAV+.

Once you update your availabilities, you will have a choice to select NAV+ for a small cost. The key handling charges are paid you the host while the cleaning is charged from the gusts.

We will keep the keys securely for you, and get them delivered to the property at the time of the check-in. We will also get the space cleaned and the keys back from the guest, at the end of the stay. This way, you don't have to align your schedule to that of your guests'. Initially, we will only be handling keys in London, and then, expand our coverage as we go.

How to i get NAV+?

A. Once you update our calendar, you will see an option to add NAV+ slots (only if your areas comes under our service area). Just select the dates you want the keys and cleaning to be managed and put in a check in check time for the whole slot.
For example, if you want NAV+ from 1st to 10th March, select the check in time on March 1sth and check out time on March 10th. Once you have done that, please send a PAIR of keys to FlatNav, 408 Hackney Road, E2 7AP, Londonm with you Name and Property Title.
Leave the rest to us!
Please also note that the dates while lie in between NAV+ will automatically have a check in time of 15:00 and check out time of 12:00.

How much does NAV+ cost?

A. Costs vary in different cities and also depend on the size of the listings. NAV+ plus has two aspects of costs: 1- The delivery of the keys which is incurred by the host
2- The cleaning which is always paid by the guest

For an example:
A 2 bedroom flat in Central London would cost the host £15 pounds and the guest £30 pounds.
Please note if NAV+ is selected for a property by the host, the cleaning charges shown at the booking process will be as suggested by Kita Cleaning Services.

Does FlatNav plan to expand NAV+ coverage?

A. Of course we will! We plan to introduce this service everywhere and anywhere in the world!

So are NAV+ services provided by FlatNav?

A. FlatNav only arranges these services for you through third party companies. We do keep your keys with us but the courier and cleaning companies are not owned by us. When you select NAV+ in your Launchpad, you will be advised to read and agree to the terms and conditions of these third party services.

Who decides the check-in/check-out time

A. As it's your space, you decide the check-in and check-out time. Of course you can always be flexible about it, should your guest requests an earlier check-in or a later check-out. Whenever you submit a new availability, you will be asked to submit the check-in and check-out details. The cancellation policies also work in accordance to your check-in and check-out times. If you select NAV+ services, you will be asked the check-in time for the first day and the check-out time for the last day of the NAV+ slot. The rest of the days which falls under the NAV+ slot will have a default check-out time of 15:00 and check-in time of 12:00. Please note all times are local.

How does the review system work?

A. Each guest is invited to leave a review about the property after their booking has finished. These reviews will show on your property listing page. The better your reviews are, the higher your property appears in the search results.
You, as a host, will also be invited to leave reviews about the guest. This will help the other hosts when accepting guests.

Can I share my listing on external social networking sites?

A. Of course you can! It's your space so wherever (almost!) you want to…

Does FlatNav check the identity and validity of users?

A. FlatNav doesn't formally do any check on either hosts or guests. We, however, endeavour to provide members of our community with enough information for them to make informed decisions. Please visit "Safety Zone" page from the Home Page for more tips on how to make the whole experience amaxing!

Is it safe?

A. On joining FlatNav, you become part of a community that is based on trust and sustainability, the very characteristics that define the new and emerging concept of Collaborative Consumption.
We believe that sharing your empty space will be mutually beneficial for the members and the community itself.
FlatNav endeavours to help optimise this experience of sharing by providing our members features which help them to make informed decisions.
Our portal is linked to social networks such as Facebook and has a very strong and robust internal review system. Both these features aid the vetting process which in any community is done by the members themselves.
We have also set aside a section of the website which gives tips and advice on how to be safe. Flatnav.com/safety

But then there is only so much an online community can do. In the end, the hosts and users, remain fully responsible for their listing and bookings. We believe in you guys, so let's just help each other.
Please don't forget to read Terms and Conditions for more information.

How much should I charge a guest?

A. You know your place best, and you know, in the area you live in, the going rate.
We suggest you start with a lower rate and build up positive reviews and once your property stands out, you can alter your prices.
You can also go through other listing on FlatNav to get an idea of what you can charge.

What about taxes?

A. It is the host's responsibility to check their Tax and Revenue authorities for tax implications.
In the UK, if you already have a lodger or are thinking about letting furnished rooms in your home, you can receive up to £4,250 a year tax-free (£2,125 if letting jointly). This is known as the Rent a Room scheme.
More information can be found at:

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/MoneyTaxAndBenefits/Taxes/TaxOnPropertyAndRentalIncome/index.html

Does FlatNav keep a security deposit?

A. FlatNav can only process a security deposit on behalf of the host when NAV+ services are selected (currently available in London, UK only). There is a 3% charge to the host for the management of the deposit. FlatNav returns the deposits 48 hours after the check-out, if no contact/complaints have been made by the host. Where selected we keep the deposit securely for you. Hosts, however, can always request extra security deposit from their guests. This is normally paid in cash when the guest arrives at the property but any other means of transferring these funds should be agreed between the two parties. This deposit acts as a mini insurance for the host, should anything goes wrong with the property.

What about cancellation policies?

A. The hosts are given a choice of 4 policies to choose from, when uploading a new property. They are as follows:

One Day
If the guest cancels 24 hours prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 100%.
If the guest cancels within 24 hours of the check-in time, the guest would be charged monies equivalent to the first night and refunded the rest. If the guest decides to leave early, the guest would be charged for the night the guest is giving such a notice plus 1 night, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rest of the nights would be refunded.

Five Day
If guest cancels 5 days prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 100%.
If guest cancels within 5 days to the check in, the guest will receive 50% refund.
If the guest decides to leave early, the guest would be charged for the night guest is giving such a notice plus 2 nights, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rent of the nights would be refunded.

Seven Day If the guest cancels 7 days prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 50%.
If the guest cancels within 7 days to check in, the guest receives 25% refund
If the guest decides to leave early, the guest would be charged for the night the guest is giving such a notice plus 3 nights, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rent of the nights would be refunded.

Fourteen day
If the guest cancels 14 days prior to the check-in time, the guest will be refunded 50%.
If the guest cancels within 14 days to check in, the guest receives 25% refund
If the guest decides to leave early, the guest would be charged for the night the guest is giving such a notice plus 4 nights, or the remaining nights in the booking (whatever is smaller). The rent of the nights would be refunded.

If you think these are too hard or too lenient, don't hesitate to write to us. We are here to listen to you!

What about refunds?

A. Refunds are calculated in accordance with the cancellation policies.
We will contact you and the guest directly should a refund be due.
If you need any help regarding your refund process please don't hesitate to contact us at info@flatnav.com
If you want to issue a refund to your guest, we would recommend you settle this with your guest. If, for some reason, this is not possible, please contact us and we will help you out.

How am I paid?

A. You will be paid either through Paypal, direct bank transfer or international wire. There might be some charges depending on the country you are based. In some cases where these ways are not available, we will send a check to your address.
Please go to Launchpad>My Account to select your payout method.

Why should I use FlatNav for payment and transactions?

A. A few reasons – of course!

1. It's a safe and secure way to transact
2. Many visitors from abroad prefer paying through a web portal
3. We can also manage your keys and cleaning (in some cities to start with)
4. You can easily screen your guests using all the features we have built in the system

And its fun! You get to meet new and exciting people while helping to create a green and sustainable future.

Is it safe and how can I help myself?

A. The concept of "Collaborative Consumption" is built on trust and fairness. We believe people just want to have some good time and save/make some money. The online world is giving us a platform to share things we have while making sure we remain safe.
Please visit the Safety Zone to see tips on how you can make sure you have a positive and enjoyable experience.

Any other things which I should consider?

A. Security deposit – you have an option to charge a deposit, which can help if things go a tad wrong.
Insurance – you should contact your current insurance provider, and most of them are happy to extend the cover for short term accommodation.
Do I need some agreement as a host? FlatNav's terms covers it all but hosts in some countries, get their guests to sign a "rental agreement" before they arrive. This could be a good way to ensure that everyone has a legally binding contract.

How do I contact FlatNav?

A. Call us, email us, tweet us or simply drop by. More details on the bottom of this page.

Why do you need my payment details?

A. We need to pay our micro-entrepreneurs (YOU!) so we need your details. Be assured that your details are safe and secure with us.

Can a property be booked instantly?

A. At the moment, properties can't be booked instantly. We want all our hosts to be sure of the guests they are accepting hence guests have to request for bookings when they like a property. All guests have to apply for a booking.

How does the booking process work?

A. A guest finds a property he/she likes and requests a booking. The host then reviews the guest's profile and makes a decision within 24 hours. Once the decision is made, the guest is asked to either pay and get the booking confirmed or find alternative accommodation (if the host rejected the request)
The host is paid 24 hours after the check in time.
Please click on the How it works page and watch our interactive video which explains it all.

I accepted a request but didn't receive a confirmation of booking, what should I do?

A. When you accept a booking request as a host, your guest is notified to pay and get the booking confirmed. He/she has 24 hours to do so, from the time of you accepting the booking.
Give your guest a little time to pay but if you want to speed the process up, just send a sweet little message to your guest requesting to expedite the payment.
Your property is always available for those dates until the booking is paid for.
All guests have to go through the process of requesting a booking again if they dont pay in time.

How do I cancel a booking?

A. Oh no! We hope that everything is fine and you have already done the most to assure that a cancellation can be avoided.
Host cancellations can lead to a lot of problems for the guests, as you can imagine. We strongly advice against any unnecessary cancellations by the hosts.
However, in the event where a cancellation is inevitable, please contact your guests and let him/her know. You can cancel and communicate with the guest in your Launchpad>My Listings>Bookings menu.
Cancellations will lead to an automatic review to be written about you on your listing page and your listing may suffer in the search results.
Please note FlatNav does keep the right to penalise the host of amounts up to 10% of their next booking.

Can a guest cancel on me?

A. Yes a guest can cancel a booking and he/she would be refunded according to the cancellation policy.
You will be also paid according to the policy selected.
Details of the cancellation policies can be found here

Am I charged VAT?

A. UK based companies have to charge VAT on the commission they charge from UK based customers.
FlatNav charges VAT on the commission from UK hosts or guest. Please note that the VAT is only payable on the service charge of FlatNav and not on the whole value of the rental.

When and how am I paid out as a host?

A. Hosts are paid 24 hours after the check in. You can select your desired method of payment from Launchpad>My Account.

What details do I need to give to be paid?

A. It depends on the country you dwell in and your preferred pay-out method. Some countries would require SWIFT Codes and other will need IBAN numbers. Once you go to Launchpad>My Account and enter the country you live in, our database will ask for all the required details.

How long does it take for the payment to get to me?

A. Provided that your guest doesn't complain at check in, your payment is processed 24 hours after the check-in time. The payment might take anything from a few minutes to a few hours to reach you, as it depends on the country you reside in and the payment method you have selected.

How much time does my guest get to pay once I accept the booking?

A. Your guest gets 24 hours to pay once the booking is accepted. If the guest fails to pay within 24 hours of booking being accepted, the booking is void. Bookings dates wouldnt be blocked until a payment is made and a booking is confirmed.

Can I get more than one requests for the same dates?

A. Yes you will be able to get as many requests as possible for the same dates/times. It's up to you to analyse who best suits you and your property. Once you accept one booking, all overlapping requests will be automatically rejected.