What is Rentaverse?
Rentaverse is a local gear-sharing marketplace that connects you with individuals in your community who are renting out their personal kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Think of us as the easy way to find the perfect boat for your next adventure without having to buy one!
Where can I rent gear through Rentaverse?
We’re currently focused on hyper-local rentals in Vermont, starting in the Burlington / Lake Champlain area. All listed rentals are located within the state.
Do I need an account to rent?
Yes, you’ll need to create a free Rentaverse account to browse listings, send inquiries, and book rentals. It’s a quick and easy process!
How do I find a rental?
Simply use the search bar on our homepage! You can browse available kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards. You can filter results by date, location, equipment type, and other features to find exactly what you need.
How do I book a rental?
nce you find the perfect piece of gear:
Select your desired dates and times.
Click “Request to Book.”
The owner will review your request. You’ll receive a notification when the owner approves your booking.
What happens after I book?
Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details, including the owner’s contact information via our secure messaging system. This is where you will actively communicate with the owner to coordinate all the specifics for pickup and return.
How do I communicate with the owner?
All communication regarding your rental – including specific pickup locations, precise times, and any questions you have – must be done through Rentaverse’s secure messaging system. This ensures a clear record for both parties and helps keep your rental experience smooth and organized.
Why is communication through the platform so important?How do I communicate with the owner?
Using the platform’s messaging system is crucial. It creates a reliable log of your agreements and helps ensure a secure and efficient transaction. You and the owner will actively use this messaging system to coordinate all the logistics.
How do I pick up and return the equipment?
You and the owner will actively coordinate the specific pickup and return details (exact time, precise location) using the Rentaverse messaging system. Be sure to arrive on time and return the equipment as agreed.
What should I do at pickup?
We highly recommend doing a quick inspection of the equipment with the owner at pickup to note any existing wear and tear. This helps ensure a smooth return process for both of you.
What if the equipment is not as described?
If the equipment significantly differs from the listing description or is not in safe, functional condition, contact the owner immediately through the platform’s messaging system. If you cannot resolve it directly, contact Rentaverse support before taking the equipment.
What should I do before returning the equipment?
Please return the equipment clean and in the same condition you received it, accounting for normal wear and tear. Double-check for any personal items you might have left behind.
How do I pay for my rental?
Rentaverse accepts all major credit cards. Your payment is processed securely through our platform when you confirm your booking.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full Refund Window: You can cancel your booking for a full refund at any point before the scheduled pickup time of your rental.
No Show / Late Cancellation: If you fail to pick up the equipment at the agreed-upon time, or if you attempt to cancel after the scheduled pickup time has passed, no refund will be issued.
How to Cancel: To cancel a booking, log into your Rentaverse account, navigate to your “My Bookings” section, and hit “cancel”. We recommend communicating with the owner through the platform’s messaging system if you need to cancel close to the pickup time.
Is the equipment safe?
Owners on Rentaverse are responsible for ensuring their equipment is in good, safe, and functional condition. We encourage owners to provide necessary safety gear like PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) and paddles. Always wear a PFD when on the water.
Am I responsible for damage to the equipment?
Yes, you are responsible for returning the equipment in the same condition you received it, beyond normal wear and tear.
What if I accidentally damage or lose the equipment?
If damage occurs, or if the equipment is lost or stolen, please immediately contact the owner through the Rentaverse messaging system and then Rentaverse support. It’s crucial to document the incident (e.g., with photos of damage). You will be responsible for the cost of repairs or replacement of the equipment.
What if I have an emergency on the water?
In case of an emergency, prioritize your safety and call 911 immediately. Then, notify the owner and Rentaverse support as soon as it is safe to do so.
What if there's an issue with my rental or the owner?
If you encounter any problems during your rental or with the owner, please contact Rentaverse support. We’re here to help facilitate communication and resolve issues.
How can I get help or support?
f you have any questions, encounter an issue, or need assistance, please contact Rentaverse support at [email protected]
How do I become an owner on Rentaverse?
It’s simple! When you sign up for an account on Rentaverse, you automatically gain access to our owner features. There’s no separate registration process to become an owner – just sign up and you’re ready to list your gear.
What kind of equipment can I list?
Rentaverse is currently focused on personal watercraft: kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. In the future, we plan to expand to other outdoor gear categories.
Is there a cost to list my items?
No, it’s absolutely free to create a listing! Rentaverse only earns a commission when your equipment is successfully rented through our platform.
What information do I need to create a listing?
High-quality photos: Show off your gear clearly from different angles.
Detailed description: Include make, model, year (if known), condition, dimensions, weight capacity, and any included accessories (paddles, PFDs, roof rack straps, etc.).
Clear pricing: Set your daily rental rate.
Availability: Use our calendar to mark when your gear is available for rent(By default it is always available and you can block off dates you do want to rent it).
Pickup/Return Instructions: Clearly communicate how and where renters can pick up and return the gear.
How do I set my prices?
You have full control over your rental rates. We recommend researching what similar equipment rents for in the Burlington/Lake Champlain area to stay competitive. Consider the condition, brand, and included accessories when setting your price. Our platform also includes an income calculator to help you estimate potential earnings. (The range for most kayaks, paddle boards and canoes should be $40-$60/day)
How do I receive and manage rental requests?
When a renter requests your equipment, you’ll receive a notification via email, SMS, and through your Rentaverse dashboard. You can then review the request and choose to approve or decline it.
How do I communicate with renters?
Once a booking is confirmed, Rentaverse provides a secure messaging system within the platform. This is your primary channel to coordinate pickup and return logistics, answer any renter questions, and ensure a smooth handover.
How does Rentaverse make money?
We take a competitive commission of ~20% on each successful rental. This commission helps us cover platform development, marketing, payment processing fees, and customer support.
How do I get paid?
You’ll receive your earnings, minus our 20% service fee and applicable taxes, after the rental period is successfully completed. We’re currently finalizing the most convenient and secure payment methods, including bank transfers (ACH), and will reach out to you after your first successful booking to confirm your preferred payout details.
Can I cancel a confirmed booking?
While we understand emergencies can happen, owners are strongly discouraged from canceling confirmed bookings. Canceling a confirmed rental can significantly inconvenience renters and negatively impact their plans.
What happens if I need to cancel?
If you must cancel a confirmed rental, please do so as early as possible through your owner dashboard and communicate directly with the renter using the platform’s messaging system. In such cases, the renter will receive a full refund for their booking.
Are there penalties for owner cancellations?
Frequent or last-minute owner cancellations may negatively affect your listing’s visibility and could result in account review or temporary suspension. Our goal is to ensure a reliable marketplace for renters, and repeated cancellations undermine that trust.
What about cancellations due to unforeseen circumstances (e.g., extreme weather)?
In rare cases of extreme weather conditions (e.g., severe thunderstorms, high winds) that make water activity unsafe, either you or the renter may initiate a cancellation. We encourage open communication between both parties. If an agreement cannot be reached, please contact Rentaverse support, and we will review the situation on a case-by-case basis.
Does Rentaverse still take its commission if I cancel?
No. Our commission is only applied to completed rentals. If a rental is cancelled (by either you or the renter) before pickup, no Rentaverse service fee will be charged or retained.
Is my equipment insured through Rentaverse?
No. Rentaverse does not currently provide insurance coverage for owners’ equipment or liability. As the owner, you are solely responsible for ensuring your equipment is adequately insured for peer-to-peer rental activities, and that you are covered for any potential liability.
What should I do about insurance?
We strongly recommend that you contact your personal insurance provider (homeowner’s, renter’s, or specialized marine/equipment insurance) to understand your current coverage for renting out your gear. Many standard policies have “commercial use” exclusions, so it’s crucial to verify your coverage before listing. Consider consulting with an insurance professional to explore options for additional coverage if needed.
What if my equipment is damaged, lost, or stolen during a rental?
While Rentaverse facilitates the connection between owners and renters, you are primarily responsible for your equipment. In the unfortunate event of damage, loss, or theft:
Document Immediately: Take photos or videos of any damage as soon as the equipment is returned. Note the date, time, and specific issues.
Communicate with the Renter: Attempt to resolve the issue directly and amicably with the renter first, using our secure messaging system.
Notify Rentaverse Support: If you can’t reach a resolution, contact Rentaverse support immediately. Provide all documentation and details of your communication with the renter. We will help facilitate dialogue and provide guidance, but please remember we do not act as an insurer or guarantor for damage costs.
Consider a Police Report: For significant damage, theft, or non-return of your equipment, we recommend filing a police report. This can be crucial for your own records and for any potential claims you might make with your personal insurance provider. Renters are responsible for returning equipment in the condition it was rented. However, the ultimate responsibility for recovery, repair costs, or replacement lies with the owner and their personal insurance.
What about liability?
Renters are required to agree to Rentaverse’s Terms & Conditions, which include acknowledging their responsibility for the equipment and their own safety. However, this does not absolve owners of potential liability. It is your responsibility to ensure your equipment is safe, well-maintained, and suitable for its intended use. We encourage owners to consult legal counsel regarding personal liability and to ensure they have appropriate insurance coverage.
How do I ensure safety?
Always ensure your equipment is in excellent, safe, and functional condition before each rental.
Provide essential safety gear like properly sized PFDs (Personal Flotation Devices) and paddles.
Clearly communicate any specific operating instructions or limitations for your gear.
Encourage renters to check weather conditions and wear PFDs.
How can I get help or support?
If you have any questions or encounter an issue, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Rentaverse support at [email protected]
Is there a community for owners?
We’re building one! Follow our social media channels and look out for future communications about community features where owners can share tips and experiences.
What are some tips for a Successful Rentaverse Experience
Be Responsive: Promptly respond to rental requests and messages to ensure satisfied renters and more bookings.
Maintain Your Gear: Regular cleaning and maintenance not only extends the life of your equipment but also ensures a positive experience for your renters.
Accurate Listings: Be honest and detailed in your descriptions. Clear photos and accurate information lead to fewer misunderstandings.
Provide Helpful Extras: A brief note with local launch points, safety tips, or recommendations can significantly enhance a renter’s experience and lead to repeat business.
Ask for Reviews: Positive reviews build trust and attract more renters to your listings.