Requesting Early Check-In or Late Check-Out

To request an early check-in or late check-out, send a message to your host through the in-app message thread as early as possible - ideally 24 to 48 hours before your stay. Be specific about the time you need:

• For early check-in, specify your expected arrival time and the reason (e.g. early morning flight, long drive from another state)
• For late check-out, specify how late you need and whether you have a flexible departure (e.g. a flight from Lagos after 6 PM)

Hosts are not obligated to grant early check-in or late check-out requests, especially if they have another booking arriving the same day. Asking politely and giving maximum notice significantly improves your chances.

Many hosts charge an additional fee for early check-in or late check-out, particularly in high-demand areas like Victoria Island and Maitama. Common structures are:

• Hourly rate - typically 10–20% of the nightly rate per additional hour
• Half-day rate - 50% of the nightly rate for access 4–6 hours outside the standard window
• Full extra night - if the host cannot accommodate a partial day, they may offer an additional night booking

Any additional fee must be agreed in the in-app message thread and processed through the platform - never pay extra fees in cash to a caretaker or host outside the app.

If your host cannot accommodate an early check-in, ask whether you can drop your luggage at the property before the official check-in time. Many caretakers in Lagos and Abuja shortlet buildings will hold bags securely.

Alternatively, most major domestic airports (Murtala Muhammed, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Mallam Aminu Kano) have left-luggage facilities, and several hotels and co-working spaces in Lekki, VI, and Wuse offer day-use luggage storage.

Once your host agrees to an early check-in or late check-out, ask them to send you a payment link through the Flatmates platform, or confirm in the chat that the arrangement is included at no extra charge. Do not pay any agreed fee in cash or via a direct bank transfer - always use the platform so both parties have a record.

If there is any confusion about what was agreed, the in-app message thread is the official record. Our support team can review it if a dispute arises.