Safety & Trust

Safe Exchanges, Trusted Community

Learn how we protect our community and discover essential safety tips for successful home exchanges.

How FlatSwaps Protects You

Multiple layers of verification and security measures keep our community safe

Identity Verification

All members verify their identity with government-issued ID and phone confirmation before participating in exchanges.

  • Government ID verification
  • Phone number confirmation
  • Email verification
  • Profile completeness check

Property Verification

Properties undergo verification to ensure they exist and match their descriptions through photos and address confirmation.

  • Photo verification
  • Address confirmation
  • Property ownership check
  • Virtual tour options

Review System

Transparent mutual reviews from hosts and guests help build trust and accountability in our community.

  • Mutual reviews required
  • Photo reviews encouraged
  • Response rate tracking
  • Overall rating system

Secure Communication

All initial communication happens through our secure platform to protect your privacy until you're ready to connect directly.

  • Encrypted messaging
  • Report inappropriate messages
  • Message history
  • Privacy controls

Trust Indicators to Look For

These badges help you identify reliable and experienced hosts

Verified Host

ID and property verified by FlatSwaps

Superhost

Exceptional reviews and response rate

Experienced

Completed 5+ successful exchanges

Recently Active

Active on platform within last 30 days

Safety Tips for Home Exchanges

Essential guidelines for safe and successful exchanges

Before You Travel

  • Research your destination thoroughly including local customs and laws
  • Share detailed travel itinerary with trusted family or friends
  • Verify host identity through video call before exchanging homes
  • Read all previous reviews carefully and ask specific questions
  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance for your trip

During Your Stay

  • Respect house rules and treat the property as your own
  • Keep local emergency numbers and embassy contacts handy
  • Stay in regular contact with family and friends back home
  • Document any pre-existing damage with photos immediately
  • Be considerate of neighbors and the local community

Communication Safety

  • Keep conversations on our platform until you feel comfortable
  • Never share financial information through messages
  • Be cautious of requests for wire transfers or unusual payments
  • Report suspicious behavior or requests immediately
  • Trust your instincts if something doesn't feel right

How to Report Safety Concerns

Our process for handling and resolving safety issues

1

Report Immediately

Use the report button on any profile, listing, or message. For emergencies, contact local authorities first.

2

We Investigate

Our trust & safety team reviews all reports within 24 hours and investigates thoroughly.

3

Action Taken

We take appropriate action from warnings to permanent account suspension based on our findings.

4

Follow-up

We follow up with all parties and implement measures to prevent similar issues.

Community Standards

Guidelines that help maintain a safe and respectful community

Respect & Inclusion

Treat all community members with respect, regardless of background, identity, or beliefs.

Honest Communication

Provide accurate information about yourself and your property in all interactions.

Property Care

Treat others' homes with the same care and respect you'd expect for your own.

Safety First

Follow safety guidelines and report any concerns immediately to our team.

Need to Report a Safety Concern?

Contact us immediately if you encounter any safety issues

Safety Emergency

Immediate safety concerns during your exchange

safety@flatswaps.com

General Support

Non-emergency questions and assistance

support@flatswaps.com

For immediate emergencies, always contact local emergency services first (911, 999, 112, etc.)

Note: This is a demonstration website. All safety information and policies are simulated for illustrative purposes only.