Protection & Security Deposits
How Curba Protects Rentals
Curba uses a tiered protection system to safeguard both renters and hosts. The level of protection depends on the item category.
Protection Tiers
Low Risk — No Deposit Required
Categories: Home, Party, Garden, Other
- No security deposit is held
- Maximum claim amount: up to $300
- Best for everyday household items with lower replacement value
Medium Risk — 20% Deposit
Categories: Construction Equipment & Tools, Sports & Leisure
- A security deposit equal to 20% of the item value is held on your card
- Maximum claim amount: up to $500
- Best for equipment that sees active use and has moderate replacement value
High Risk — 30% Deposit
Categories: Electronics, Vehicles, Film & Photography
- A security deposit equal to 30% of the item value is held on your card
- Best for high-value items that need strong protection
How Security Deposits Work
For Renters
- When you complete payment, a hold is placed on your card for the deposit amount
- This is not a charge — it's a temporary authorization
- The hold is released automatically when the booking completes successfully
- If there's a damage claim, the deposit may be partially or fully captured
For Hosts
- Set your item's value when creating your listing — this determines the deposit amount
- The deposit protects you against damage or loss during the rental
- If the item is returned damaged, you can file a claim to capture part or all of the deposit
Deposit Calculation
The deposit amount is calculated as:
Deposit = Item Value x Deposit Percentage
The deposit is capped so it never exceeds the total rental cost.
For example:
- A camera worth $2,000 in the High Risk tier → $2,000 x 30% = $600 deposit hold
- A power drill worth $300 in the Medium Risk tier → $300 x 20% = $60 deposit hold
When Is the Deposit Released?
| Scenario | What Happens |
|---|---|
| Booking completed successfully | Deposit hold is released automatically |
| Booking canceled (by either party) | Deposit hold is released in full |
| Damage claim filed | Deposit may be partially or fully captured |
Tips for Renters
- Check the deposit amount in the price breakdown before booking
- The deposit hold may temporarily reduce your available credit limit
- Take photos of the item at pickup as a record of its condition
Tips for Hosts
- Set an accurate item value — this protects you without overcharging renters
- Inspect your item carefully at return before confirming
- Document any damage with photos immediately