Fat Llama is a peer-to-peer rental platform where you can rent out almost anything you own, such as cameras, drones, tools, gaming gear, sports equipment and party supplies, to people nearby. Fat Llama verifies borrowers, handles payments and covers lenders through its Lender Guarantee. Listing is free; Fat Llama takes a fee when you rent.
At a glance
| What it is | A peer-to-peer rental marketplace for everyday items |
| How you earn | Rental fees for items you own |
| Cost | Free to sign up and list; service fee on rentals |
| Protection | Lender Guarantee, up to the item’s listed value |
| Who it’s for | Owners of cameras, tools, tech and leisure gear |
| Where it works | UK, US and Canada |
How Fat Llama works
You list items with photos, a description, a daily price and an accurate value and category. Borrowers nearby find your item and request dates. Fat Llama verifies borrowers’ identities and finances, takes payment and releases your earnings after the rental. You meet borrowers to hand over and collect items.
Fees
Fat Llama charges a service fee on every transaction, split between lender and borrower. Its help centre lists category-based rates; in some categories the lender fee is 25% and the borrower fee 10%. Its “about” page says lenders keep 80% of the rental price. Fees differ by category, so check the current rates for what you plan to list.
The Lender Guarantee
Fat Llama’s Lender Guarantee covers damage or loss, up to the value you list. To qualify, you have to follow its rules: take timestamped photos or videos before and after each rental, value and categorise items correctly and report problems promptly. If you have your own commercial insurance, you must claim there first. Some items, such as campervans, aren’t covered.
What rents well
Camera bodies and lenses, drones, projectors, DJ and audio gear, power tools and outdoor equipment are common rentals. Items that are expensive to buy but needed only occasionally do best. Good photos, clear descriptions and fair prices make a big difference.
Running it well
Respond to requests quickly and keep your availability up to date, since borrowers often need items within a day or two. Never take cash outside the platform: Fat Llama treats that as fee avoidance and can suspend you. Inspect and photograph items every time. Build reviews early with competitive prices.
Pricing your items
A common starting point is a small percentage of the item’s value per day, adjusted to what similar listings nearby charge. Offer weekly rates for items people need for longer projects, such as tools. Expensive items earn the most per rental but also carry the biggest risk, so make sure the Guarantee rules are followed every time.
Handovers and safety
Meet borrowers in a safe, public or familiar place, or at your home if you’re comfortable. Check ID details match the Fat Llama profile. Walk through how the item works, especially for tech, and agree the return time. On return, inspect the item together before the borrower leaves and record its condition. Clear routines protect both you and the borrower.
Taxes
Rental income from your belongings is usually taxable. Keep records of what you earn and any costs, such as repairs, cleaning and replacement parts.
Owen’s take
Fat Llama is a smart way to earn from expensive things you rarely use. The fees are significant, so price with them in mind. The Guarantee is valuable but only if you follow the photo and value rules every single time. Treat each rental like a small business transaction and it works well.
Who it suits
It suits people with quality gear that sits unused most of the time, living in a city with demand. It suits less well anyone who dislikes handovers or owns mostly low-value items.
Similar options
- ShareGrid specialises in camera and film gear rentals.
- Neighbor pays you to rent out storage and parking space.
- Getaround lets you rent out your car in parts of Europe.
More options are in Rentals & Sharing.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Rent out almost any item
- Borrower verification and payment handling
- Lender Guarantee for covered items
Cons
- Service fees can be high in some categories
- Guarantee depends on following strict rules
- In-person handovers take time
FAQ
Is Fat Llama free to use?
Signing up and listing are free. Fat Llama charges a fee on rentals.
How much does Fat Llama take?
It varies by category. Check Fat Llama’s help centre for current rates.
What if my item is damaged?
The Lender Guarantee covers damage or loss up to the listed value, if you meet its requirements.
Where does Fat Llama operate?
In the UK, US and Canada.
Can I accept cash for rentals?
No. Payments outside the platform break Fat Llama’s rules.
