Safety and Trust
How Curba Keeps You Safe
Curba is built with safety and trust at its core. Here's how we protect both renters and hosts.
Identity Verification
Every user who wants to list or rent items must complete identity verification through Stripe Identity. This means:
- Government-issued ID is verified
- Selfie is matched to the ID
- Hosts must be verified before accepting inquiries, and renters must be verified before paying for rentals
This helps ensure you're dealing with real, verified people.
Secure Payments
- All payments are processed through Stripe, a leading payment processor
- Your card details are never stored on Curba's servers
- Payments are held until pickup is confirmed - you're not charged until you have the item
- Curba Damage Protection and security deposits protect against damage or loss
Your Information
- All user related information is securely saved and encrypted. Payment related information, cards, IDs are all securely saved on Stripe.
In-App Communication
- All messaging happens within Curba - no need to share personal contact information until pickup
- Message history is preserved for every booking as a record of your agreements
- Pickup details (address and contact number) are only shared after payment is confirmed
Protection Tiers
Items are protected based on their category. Curba Damage Protection pays the host for accidental damage, theft, or loss, up to a limit for the category. The renter's deposit is used first:
| Categories | Curba Damage Protection | Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| Home, Party, Garden, Other | Up to $5,000 per item | One day's rental price, up to $100 |
| Construction Equipment & Tools, Sports & Leisure | Up to $5,000 per item | 20% of item value ($75 minimum, $300 maximum) |
| Electronics | Up to $5,000 per item | 30% of item value ($150 minimum, $300 maximum) |
| Film & Photography | Up to $10,000 per rental | 30% of item value ($150 minimum, $300 maximum) |
| Trailers, Vehicle | Up to $20,000 per item | 30% of item value ($250 minimum, $300 maximum) |
For bookings made from November 26, 2026 (December 12, 2026 in Quebec), payouts are based on the item's current value.
See Protection & Security Deposits for full details.
Cancellation Policies
Every listing has a clear cancellation policy (Flexible, Medium, or Strict) displayed upfront so there are no surprises. See Cancellation Policies.
Reviews and Accountability
- Renters can leave reviews after each booking
- Reviews are public and help the community identify reliable hosts
- A strong review history builds trust and attracts more bookings
Safety Tips for Renters
- Check the host's reviews and verification status before booking
- Read the listing description carefully, including the cancellation policy
- Take photos of the item at pickup to document its condition
- Read the item's operating and safety instructions, and wear the right protective gear
- Don't use an item that looks damaged or unsafe - tell the host and Curba instead
- Only use items you know how to operate safely, and don't lend them to anyone else without the host's agreement
- Return items on time and in the same condition
- Keep all communication within the Curba app
Safety Tips for Hosts
- Only rent to verified users on the platform
- Only list items in safe working order, and mention any known defects or hazards in your listing
- Share the manual or safety instructions with the renter at pickup
- Set your item's current value - for most categories it sets the deposit, and Curba Damage Protection pays on the item's current value
- Share pickup details only after payment is confirmed
- Inspect items carefully at return before confirming
- Document any damage with photos immediately
- Respond to inquiries promptly and communicate clearly
If Someone Is Hurt or Other Property Is Damaged
- Get help first, and call 911 if anyone's safety is at risk
- Stop using the item
- Report what happened to Curba at support@curba.app as soon as you can, with a description and any photos
- Take photos of the item and any damaged parts, and if it's safe, don't repair or throw away damaged parts until the incident has been looked into
- Return the item to the host as agreed, unless you both agree otherwise
Curba Damage Protection and security deposits only apply to the rented item itself. They don't cover injuries or damage to other property, so check whether your own home, tenant, or liability insurance covers you. See Section 9 of the Terms of Service for the details.
Reporting Issues
If you encounter any problems during a rental, use the Contact Us page to reach Curba support. We're here to help resolve disputes and ensure a safe experience for everyone.