Terms of Service

1. Acceptance of Terms

Welcome to Hitch Hosts. By accessing or using our website and services, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service ("Terms"). If you do not agree to these Terms, please do not use our services.

2. Description of Service

Hitch Hosts is a peer-to-peer platform that connects recreational vehicle (RV) travelers with local hosts who offer unique experiences and hosted stays. Travelers can book stays at host properties (either in their RV on the host's property or inside the host's home if indoor hosting is permitted). The platform operates on a commission-based model where Hitch Hosts charges a 15% fee on confirmed bookings, with hosts receiving 85% of the booking amount.

3. Account Registration

3.1 Account Requirements

• You must be at least 18 years old to create an account
• You must provide accurate and complete information during registration
• You must complete identity verification as required by the platform
• You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials

3.2 Identity Verification

For safety and security, all users (both travelers and hosts) must complete identity verification using a government-issued ID. This verification is mandatory and helps ensure the safety of our community. Identity verification data is processed securely and may be shared with authorities in the event of incidents or legal requirements.

3.3 Platform Access

Hitch Hosts is free to browse and use. There are no membership fees or upfront costs. We operate on a commission model where we charge a 15% fee only when you successfully book a stay. Hosts receive 85% of each booking payment directly to their connected payment account.

4. Traveler Responsibilities

As a traveler using our platform, you agree to:

• Request and receive approval from hosts before arriving at any location
• Respect host property, rules, and guidelines
• Leave host locations in the same or better condition than you found them
• Comply with all local laws and regulations
• Communicate respectfully with hosts
• Pay booking fees as agreed when making a reservation
• Complete identity verification as required
• Provide accurate information about yourself and your travel plans

5. Host Responsibilities

Hosts participating in the Hitch Hosts platform agree to:

• Provide accurate information about their location, amenities, and experiences offered
• Respond to booking requests in a timely manner
• Maintain their listing information and keep it up to date
• Provide a safe and welcoming environment for travelers
• Complete Stripe Connect onboarding to receive payments
• Set clear pricing for their experiences and stays
• Manage their availability and update it as needed
• Communicate any special requirements, restrictions, or house rules to travelers
• Complete identity verification as required
• Comply with all local laws and regulations regarding hosting

6. Booking, Payment, and Cancellation

6.1 Booking Process

All stays must be requested and approved by the host before arrival. Hitch Hosts does not guarantee availability at any location. Hosts have the sole discretion to approve or deny booking requests. Once approved, payment is processed through our platform.

6.2 Payment and Commission

When a booking is confirmed, travelers pay the full booking amount. Hitch Hosts charges a 15% commission fee, and hosts receive 85% of the booking amount directly to their connected Stripe account. Payment processing is handled securely through Stripe Connect.

6.3 Cancellations and Refunds

Cancellation policies are set by individual hosts. Travelers should cancel bookings as early as possible if plans change. Hosts may also cancel approved bookings due to unforeseen circumstances. Refund policies will be clearly stated at the time of booking. Hitch Hosts is not responsible for any costs incurred due to cancellations beyond our commission fee.

7. Prohibited Conduct

You agree not to:

• Use the service for any illegal purpose
• Harass, threaten, or discriminate against hosts or other members
• Provide false or misleading information
• Attempt to circumvent the Hitch Hosts platform to arrange stays directly
• Exceed agreed-upon stay durations without permission
• Damage host property or cause disturbances
• Use another person's account without permission
• Interfere with the operation of the service

8. Limitation of Liability

IMPORTANT: Hitch Hosts acts as a platform connecting members with hosts. We do not own, control, or manage any host locations. To the maximum extent permitted by law:

• Hitch Hosts is not responsible for the actions, omissions, or conduct of hosts or members
• We do not guarantee the safety, quality, or condition of host locations
• We are not liable for any injuries, losses, damages, or expenses incurred during your stay
• Members use host locations at their own risk
• Our total liability shall not exceed the amount you paid for your membership

9. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify and hold harmless Hitch Hosts, its officers, directors, employees, and agents from any claims, damages, losses, liabilities, and expenses (including legal fees) arising from your use of the service or violation of these Terms.

10. Insurance

Members are solely responsible for obtaining appropriate insurance coverage for their vehicles and personal property. Hitch Hosts does not provide insurance and is not responsible for any losses or damages.

11. Termination

We reserve the right to suspend or terminate your account at any time for violation of these Terms or for any other reason at our sole discretion. You may cancel your membership at any time, but fees already paid are non-refundable except as required by law.

12. Intellectual Property

All content on the Hitch Hosts platform, including text, graphics, logos, images, and software, is the property of Hitch Hosts or its licensors and is protected by copyright and other intellectual property laws. You may not use, reproduce, or distribute any content without our express written permission.

13. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising from these Terms or your use of the service shall be resolved through good faith negotiations. If negotiations fail, disputes shall be resolved in accordance with the laws of Australia.

14. Modifications to Terms

We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective upon posting to the website. Your continued use of the service after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the modified Terms.

15. Severability

If any provision of these Terms is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

16. Contact Information

If you have any questions about these Terms of Service, please contact us:

• Email: support@hitchhosts.com
• Website: https://hitchhosts.com