Terms of Service

1. About Heron Hire

Heron Hire ("we", "us", "the platform") is a peer-to-peer marketplace that connects equipment owners ("owners") with people seeking to hire equipment ("renters") in Australia. We facilitate the listing, booking, and payment process but do not own, operate, or maintain any of the equipment listed on the platform.

2. Eligibility

To use Heron Hire you must be at least 18 years old and legally able to enter binding contracts under Australian law. Owners must hold a valid Australian Business Number (ABN) to list equipment.

3. Accounts

You are responsible for maintaining the security of your account and for all activity that occurs under your account. You must provide accurate, current information during registration. One account per person — duplicate accounts may be removed.

4. Listings

Owners are responsible for the accuracy of their listings, including descriptions, photos, rates, and availability. Equipment must be in safe working condition. Heron Hire may review, pause, or remove listings that are inaccurate, unsafe, or in breach of these terms.

5. Bookings

A booking request is not confirmed until the owner approves it and the renter completes payment. Both parties agree to the dates, rates, and any additional terms shown at the time of booking. Cancellation policies are displayed on each booking and determine refund eligibility.

6. Payments

All payments are processed securely through Stripe. Heron Hire charges a 10% commission on the booking subtotal, deducted from the owner's payout. Owners receive their payout after the hire period is complete, subject to a short holding period. Damage deposits are held separately and returned after the equipment is returned in acceptable condition.

7. Responsibilities

Owners must ensure equipment is safe, well-maintained, and as described. Owners are responsible for appropriate insurance on their equipment.

Renters must use equipment responsibly, follow any operating instructions, hold relevant licences where required, and return equipment on time and in the condition received (fair wear and tear excepted).

8. Disputes

If a dispute arises between an owner and renter, both parties should first attempt to resolve it through in-platform messaging. If this fails, either party can raise a formal dispute through Heron Hire. We will review the dispute and may mediate, issue refunds, or take other appropriate action at our discretion.

9. Liability

Heron Hire is a marketplace platform. We do not inspect equipment or guarantee its condition, safety, or suitability. We are not liable for any loss, damage, injury, or claim arising from the use of equipment hired through the platform. Users engage with each other at their own risk.

10. Prohibited Conduct

You may not use Heron Hire to list stolen or unsafe equipment, misrepresent equipment condition, circumvent the payment system, harass other users, or engage in any unlawful activity. Violation may result in account suspension or termination.

11. Modifications

We may update these terms from time to time. Continued use of the platform after changes are posted constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

12. Governing Law

These terms are governed by the laws of Queensland, Australia. Any disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of the courts of Queensland.

13. Contact

Questions about these terms? Contact us.