Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about renting and listing on Collect Sisu.
For Renters
How does Collect Sisu work?
Collect Sisu is a peer-to-peer marketplace where you can rent event decor, tableware, furniture, and bounce houses from neighbors in the New York metro area, or book skilled local providers for services like styling, florals, bartending, and photography. Browse listings on collectsisu.com or the iOS app, request a booking from a host, and pay securely through the platform. There are no rental minimums.
How do I book a rental or service?
Find an item or service you love, choose your dates, and send a booking request to the host. The host reviews and accepts the request, and you're charged at confirmation. If the listing offers Instant Book, you're confirmed immediately.
What happens after I book?
You'll get a confirmation with the host's contact info and pickup or delivery details. Coordinate the handoff directly with the host through the platform, enjoy the items at your event, and return them in the same condition at the agreed time.
Can I cancel a booking?
Yes. Cancellation terms follow the host's chosen policy. Most listings use the Moderate policy: 100% refund if cancelled 7+ days before the event, 50% refund if cancelled 3–7 days before, and no refund within 3 days. The 20% platform fee is non-refundable. Security deposits are always refunded in full on cancellation. If a host cancels, you receive a full refund.
How is pricing calculated?
Hosts set their own price per booking. The price shown on each listing is the host's rate. At checkout, a 20% platform service fee is added. If the listing offers delivery, a delivery fee may also apply. Some high-value or fragile items require a refundable security deposit.
Is there a security deposit?
Some listings require a refundable security deposit for high-value or fragile items. If a deposit applies, the amount and terms are shown before you confirm the booking. Deposits are released after the items are returned in the agreed condition.
What happens if items are damaged or missing?
Small signs of normal use are expected and not charged for. If an item is returned damaged beyond normal wear, missing, or incomplete, the issue is handled through Collect Sisu. We work with both parties to resolve it quickly and fairly. Clear communication and photos help. If a security deposit was collected, it may be applied toward damages.
What if I return items late?
Items should be returned at the agreed time. There's a 15-minute grace period after your scheduled return time. After that, the full booking rate may be charged again. The host may waive this fee at their discretion. If you know you'll be late, message your host as soon as possible.
How do I contact a provider?
Use the Message Host button on any listing or in your booking dashboard. All communication happens through Collect Sisu so we have a record if anything needs to be resolved.
For Providers
How do I list my items or services?
Tap Share on Sisu to start a new listing. Add photos, a description, your price per booking, available quantity, pickup or delivery details, and your cancellation policy. Listing is free and you can edit anytime.
What types of listings can I create?
Three types: Borrow a Piece (individual rental items — tableware, glassware, linens, furniture, decor), Borrow a Look (curated packages like full tablescapes or bar setups), and Borrow a Skill (event services like styling, florals, photography, bartending). See our Seller Quick-Start Guide for details.
How do I set my pricing?
You set your own price per booking. Look at comparable listings in your area to gauge the market, factor in cleaning and prep time, and adjust based on demand. You can update prices anytime.
How and when do I get paid?
Payouts are released after the booking is completed and the items are returned. Funds are transferred to your linked bank account through our secure payment processor. You receive the full price you set — renters pay the 20% platform fee on top.
Can I set my own cancellation policy?
Yes. Choose from Flexible, Moderate, or Strict cancellation policies when you create a listing. The Moderate policy (100% refund 7+ days out, 50% refund 3–7 days out, no refund under 3 days) is the most common.
How do I manage my bookings?
Use the host dashboard on collectsisu.com or the iOS app to accept, decline, or view booking requests, message renters, and track upcoming pickups and returns.
How do I report damaged or missing items?
Report any damage, missing pieces, or incomplete returns through the platform as soon as the items are returned. Include clear photos. We'll review and work with both parties to resolve it. If a security deposit was collected, it may be applied toward verified damages.
How do security deposits work for my listings?
You can require a refundable security deposit on high-value or fragile listings. Set the amount when you create or edit a listing. Deposits are held by Collect Sisu and released to the renter after items are returned in the agreed condition. If there's damage, you can request that the deposit (or part of it) be applied toward the cost.
Payments & Fees
What payment methods are accepted?
Collect Sisu accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover) and Apple Pay through our secure payment processor.
Are there any service fees?
Yes. Renters pay a 20% platform service fee at checkout, which covers secure payments, customer support, and platform operations. Hosts pay no fees and receive the full price they set. The 20% platform fee is non-refundable on cancellation.
What is the refund policy?
Refunds follow the host's cancellation policy on each listing. For the most common Moderate policy: 100% refund if cancelled 7+ days before, 50% refund 3–7 days before, no refund within 3 days. The 20% platform fee is non-refundable. Security deposits are always refunded in full when no damage is reported. Host cancellations always result in a full refund to the renter.
Will my card be charged after the event?
Your card is charged when the booking is confirmed, not after. Additional charges may apply only if items are returned late, damaged, missing, or incomplete, in which case you'll be notified before any charge is processed.
How do I dispute a charge?
If you believe a charge is incorrect, email support@collectsisu.com with your booking ID and a description of the issue. We typically respond within a few business hours.
When do providers receive their payout?
Payouts are released after the booking is completed and the items are returned. Funds are transferred to the host's linked bank account through our secure payment processor.
Account & Support
How do I create an account?
Sign up at collectsisu.com or in the iOS app using your email address. Hosts also link a bank account through our secure payment processor to receive payouts.
I forgot my password. How do I reset it?
Click "Log in" then "Forgot password" and enter your email. We'll send a reset link. If you don't see the email within a few minutes, check spam or contact support@collectsisu.com.
How do I contact support?
Email support@collectsisu.com. We typically reply within a few hours during business hours.
Is my personal information safe?
Yes. We follow industry-standard practices to protect your data. Payments are processed by a PCI-compliant payment provider, and we never store full card numbers. Read our Privacy Policy for details.
Still have questions?
Email support@collectsisu.com and we'll get back to you within a few hours during business hours.