Hosts FAQs

Who can become a host on BenchConnect?

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BenchConnect is open to joinery shops, furniture makers, and woodworking workshops that have spare bench space they’d like to make available on a flexible basis. You don’t need to be a large workshop — many hosts are small, independent makers themselves.

Am I renting out my workshop or taking on tenants?

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No. Hosting through BenchConnect is not a lease or tenancy. You are simply offering short-term or rolling access to a bench when it suits you. You remain fully in control of your workshop at all times.

Do I have to accept every booking request?

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No. You review every enquiry and decide whether to accept it. You can decline any request that doesn’t feel like a good fit for your space, your schedule, or your working style.

What kind of bookings can I offer?

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You can choose what works for you, including:

• Day bookings

• Weekly bookings

• Rolling monthly or longer-term bench arrangements

You decide availability, pricing, and how flexible you want to be.

How much can I charge for bench space?

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You set your own prices. Typical rates during the pilot range from:

• £20–£45 per day

• £80–£150 per week

• £400–£600 per month for longer-term benches

BenchConnect can offer guidance, but pricing is always your decision.

What about tools and machinery?

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You decide exactly what makers can and can’t use. Some hosts offer bench-only access, while others allow specific hand tools or machines. Your rules are clearly shown before any booking is confirmed.

How does safety and insurance work?

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You continue to operate under your existing workshop rules and insurance. We recommend hosts check with their insurer if they have any questions about hosting visiting makers.

Makers are required to:

• Acknowledge your workshop rules

• Follow safety guidance

• Use PPE where required

• Only use permitted tools

BenchConnect provides a clear structure to help manage expectations, but you remain in control of on-site safety.

Do I need to provide training or supervision?

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No formal training is required. Most hosts simply provide a short safety briefing on a maker’s first visit. You can also restrict access to tools or require certain experience levels if you prefer.

What information do I need to provide to list my bench?

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We’ll ask for:

• Workshop location (area, not full address publicly)

• Bench availability

• Pricing

• Tools and facilities available

• Any experience requirements

• Photos of your space

• Your workshop rules

We guide you through this step by step.

Is there a long-term commitment?

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No. You can host as often or as little as you like, and you can pause or remove your listing at any time. BenchConnect is designed to fit around your work — not dictate it.

How do I get paid?

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Payment details and timing will be agreed clearly before you go live. BenchConnect takes a small commission for facilitating bookings, with the remainder going directly to you.

What happens after I express interest in hosting?

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We’ll have a short conversation to understand your workshop, answer any questions, and make sure BenchConnect is a good fit for you. There’s no obligation to proceed.

Where is Bench Connect currently operating?

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The pilot is currently focused on Kent and London, with plans to expand to other regions over time.