Welcome to the Emptiva Help Center. We are here to help you navigate the world of flexible retail and commercial leasing. Whether you are a brand looking for a blank canvas or a landlord with a vacant property, you’ll find answers to the most common questions below.
General Questions
How does Emptiva work? We make booking commercial space as easy as booking a hotel room. Emptiva is a marketplace connecting brands, artists, and entrepreneurs with empty commercial spaces for short-term rentals. You can browse listings, chat with hosts, and book your ideal “blank canvas” directly through our platform.
What exactly is a “Pop-Up” on Emptiva? A pop-up is a temporary takeover of a physical space. On Emptiva, this means renting an empty retail unit, gallery, or showroom for a limited time—from a few days to a year. Brands use our spaces to launch products, host exhibitions, test new markets, or run sample sales.
Who can use Emptiva? Emptiva is open to everyone. We work with established global brands, local startups, artists, and digital-native companies looking for a physical presence. As long as you have an idea and insurance, you can book a space.
How long does it take to get started? You can be up and running in as little as 24 hours. Simply search for a space, send a request to the host, and once accepted, you can move in on your start date.
For Renters (Brands & Guests)
What kind of spaces do you rent? We specialize exclusively in empty spaces. When you book through Emptiva, you are renting a “white box” or raw space that is free of furniture, fixtures, and previous tenant branding. This gives you total creative freedom to design your store or event exactly how you envision it.
Do the spaces come with WiFi and Utilities? Most of our spaces include basic utilities (electricity, water, HVAC) and WiFi. However, because we focus on empty spaces, you should not expect Point of Sale (PoS) systems, shelving, or furniture unless specifically stated in the listing. You are responsible for bringing the tools to run your business.
Can I redecorate the space? Yes, but with conditions. You are encouraged to brand the space to fit your vision (e.g., vinyl decals, freestanding fixtures). However, you must return the space in the exact condition you found it. Major alterations like drilling into walls or painting usually require prior written approval from the host.
Who is responsible for permits and licenses? You are. While the host provides the space, it is the renter’s responsibility to ensure they have the correct business licenses, pop-up permits, and insurance required by local authorities to operate their specific type of event or store.
Is insurance required? Yes. All renters must provide proof of General Liability Insurance before move-in. This protects you, the host, and the property.
For Hosts (Landlords)
How do I list my space? Listing is free and simple. Click “List Your Space” in the top menu, upload high-quality photos of your empty unit, set your price, and describe the amenities. Once approved by our team, your listing will go live to thousands of potential renters.
Do I need to empty my space? Yes. Emptiva is strictly for empty, vacant commercial units. We do not support “shop-in-shop” or shared retail models. Your space must be cleared of previous tenant belongings, furniture, and debris before a renter checks in. It should be a “clean slate” ready for a brand to move in.
Who pays for the fit-out? The renter. You provide the shell (walls, floors, lighting, utilities), and the renter covers the cost of designing, furnishing, and staffing the space. They are also responsible for removing everything when they leave.
How do I get paid? We handle all payments securely through the platform. Payouts are typically released to your bank account 24 hours after the renter successfully checks in.
Can I decline a booking request? Absolutely. You have full control over who rents your space. You can review the brand’s concept, ask questions via our chat system, and accept or decline requests based on what is best for your property.