STARTRIP TECHNOLOGIES
Rental Marketplace Agreement
Terms and Conditions for Vehicle Hosts and Renters
Papua New Guinea
Effective Date: June 2026
StarTrip Technologies FZ-LLC
RAKEZ Business Zone, Al Nakheel Area, P.O. Box 10055
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
admin@startriptechnologies.com
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IMPORTANT NOTICE
StarTrip operates solely as a technology marketplace that connects vehicle Hosts with Renters. StarTrip does not own, operate, or control any rental vehicles. StarTrip is not a vehicle rental company, hire car operator, fleet manager, or transport carrier. All rental transactions are directly between the Host and the Renter. By using the StarTrip Rental Marketplace, you acknowledge and agree to these Terms.
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0. Definitions
In this Agreement, unless the context requires otherwise:
"Agreement" means this Rental Marketplace Agreement, including all policies and documents incorporated by reference.
"Platform" means the StarTrip mobile applications, websites, systems, and related technology services made available by or on behalf of StarTrip, including the Rental Marketplace feature.
"Rental Marketplace" means the feature within the StarTrip Platform that enables Hosts to list vehicles for rent and Renters to book those vehicles.
"Host" means any individual, business, fleet operator, or hire car company that lists one or more vehicles on the StarTrip Rental Marketplace.
"Renter" means any individual or corporate entity that books a vehicle through the StarTrip Rental Marketplace.
"Vehicle" means any motor vehicle listed by a Host on the Rental Marketplace, including but not limited to sedans, SUVs, station wagons, utility vehicles, buses, vans, and other passenger or commercial vehicles.
"Rental Agreement" means the direct rental contract formed between the Host and the Renter upon confirmation of a booking.
"Listing" means a Vehicle listing created by a Host on the Rental Marketplace, including all associated details, pricing, terms, and availability.
"Booking" means a confirmed reservation of a Vehicle made by a Renter through the Platform.
"Rental Period" means the duration of the vehicle rental as agreed between the Host and the Renter and confirmed through the Platform.
"Platform Fee" means the fee charged by StarTrip to the Host for access to and use of the Rental Marketplace, as described in Section 8 of this Agreement.
"Chauffeur Service" means an optional service offered by a Host where a driver is included with the Vehicle rental.
"Khoco" means Khoco Limited, a company incorporated in Papua New Guinea, engaged by StarTrip as a local support service provider in Papua New Guinea.
"PNG Law" means all applicable laws, regulations, and rules of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea.
"Corporate Renter" means any organisation, business, government body, NGO, institution, or corporate entity that books rental services through the Platform or under a corporate account arrangement.
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1. Parties and Role of StarTrip
1.1 Platform Operator
The Rental Marketplace is operated by StarTrip Technologies FZ-LLC, a company incorporated in the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone, United Arab Emirates.
1.2 Marketplace Only
StarTrip provides a technology Platform that enables Hosts to list Vehicles for rent and Renters to discover and book those Vehicles. StarTrip is not a vehicle rental company, hire car operator, fleet manager, transport carrier, or motor vehicle dealer. StarTrip does not own, lease, operate, maintain, or control any Vehicle listed on the Rental Marketplace.
1.3 No Party to Rental Contract
When a Renter confirms a Booking, a direct rental contract is formed between the Host and the Renter. StarTrip is not a party to that contract. StarTrip does not guarantee the quality, safety, roadworthiness, legality, or fitness for purpose of any Vehicle, nor the accuracy of any Listing.
1.4 Khoco Limited
In Papua New Guinea, StarTrip engages Khoco Limited as a local support service provider. Khoco provides limited operational support and administrative services under StarTrip's instructions. Khoco does not operate the Platform, own or manage Vehicles, provide rental services, or enter into contracts on behalf of StarTrip. Khoco is not a party to any Rental Agreement between a Host and a Renter.
1.5 Geographic Coverage
This Agreement applies to all users of the StarTrip Rental Marketplace operating within Papua New Guinea, including Port Moresby, Lae, and any other locations to which the Rental Marketplace is extended from time to time.
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2. Eligibility and Account Registration
2.1 Host Eligibility
To list a Vehicle as a Host, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have legal authority to list and rent the Vehicle (either as owner or as an authorised representative of the owner)
- Hold all necessary licences, permits, and registrations required under PNG Law to operate or offer the Vehicle for rental
- Provide accurate and complete Listing information
- Maintain valid insurance coverage as described in Section 7 of this Agreement
- Comply with all applicable PNG laws, transport regulations, and local authority requirements
2.2 Renter Eligibility
To book a Vehicle as a Renter, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Hold a valid driver's licence appropriate for the category of Vehicle being rented, unless booking a Chauffeur Service
- Have capacity to enter into binding contracts
- Provide accurate registration and booking information
- Comply with all conditions set by the Host in the Listing
2.3 Corporate Renters
Corporate Renters may access the Rental Marketplace under a corporate account arrangement. Authorised account administrators may book Vehicles on behalf of employees or approved users. The Corporate Renter organisation assumes responsibility for all Bookings made under its account and for ensuring that individual users comply with this Agreement and the terms of each Listing.
2.4 Account Security
You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of your account credentials. You must not share your account access with any other person. You are responsible for all activity conducted under your account.
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3. Vehicle Listings
3.1 Host Responsibility for Listings
Hosts are solely responsible for the accuracy, completeness, and legality of their Listings. Each Listing must include:
- Accurate vehicle description, category, and photographs
- Pricing, rental duration options, and any applicable conditions
- Pickup and return location details
- Any restrictions on use, including mileage limits, geographic restrictions, or driver requirements
- Fuel policy
- Chauffeur Service availability, if applicable
- Any additional terms the Host requires the Renter to comply with
3.2 Vehicle Categories
The Rental Marketplace supports a broad range of vehicle types including but not limited to:
- Sedans
- SUVs and four-wheel drives
- Station wagons
- Utility vehicles
- Vans and minibuses
- Buses and larger passenger vehicles
- Other vehicle types as approved by StarTrip from time to time
3.3 Listing Accuracy
Hosts must ensure that all Listing information is accurate and kept up to date. StarTrip reserves the right to remove, suspend, or require amendments to any Listing that it determines in its reasonable discretion to be inaccurate, misleading, unsafe, or in breach of this Agreement or applicable law.
3.4 No Endorsement
The publication of a Listing on the Platform does not constitute StarTrip's endorsement, verification, or approval of the Vehicle, the Host, or the terms of any rental arrangement.
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4. Booking and Rental Agreements
4.1 Booking Process
Renters may browse available Listings and submit a Booking request through the Platform. A Booking is confirmed when the Host accepts the request and confirmation is issued through the Platform.
4.2 Direct Contract Between Host and Renter
Upon confirmation of a Booking, a direct Rental Agreement is formed between the Host and the Renter. StarTrip is not a party to this contract. The terms of the Rental Agreement are determined by the Host's Listing, subject to this Agreement and applicable PNG Law.
4.3 StarTrip Not Responsible for Rental Terms
StarTrip does not review, approve, or guarantee the individual terms of any Rental Agreement. Any disputes regarding the terms of a rental, vehicle condition, rental duration, or associated costs are matters between the Host and the Renter.
4.4 Chauffeur Service
Where a Host offers a Chauffeur Service, the inclusion of a driver with the Vehicle is a service provided by the Host, not by StarTrip. Any driver engaged as part of a Chauffeur Service is the Host's responsibility. StarTrip is not responsible for the conduct, competence, licensing, or actions of any chauffeur or driver supplied by a Host.
4.5 Cancellations and Modifications
Cancellation and modification policies are set by the Host within the Listing. Renters should review the applicable cancellation policy before confirming a Booking. StarTrip may facilitate communication between Hosts and Renters in relation to cancellations or modifications but is not responsible for any losses arising from cancelled or modified Bookings.
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5. Host Obligations and Standards
5.1 Lawful Operation
Hosts must ensure that their Vehicles and rental operations comply with all applicable PNG Laws, including:
- Motor vehicle registration and roadworthiness requirements
- Applicable transport and hire car licensing requirements
- Insurance obligations
- Tax and income reporting obligations
- Any permit or authority requirements applicable to the type of vehicle or rental service offered
5.2 Vehicle Condition
Hosts are solely responsible for ensuring that each Vehicle listed on the Platform is:
- Mechanically sound and roadworthy
- Registered and compliant under PNG Law
- Clean, presentable, and fit for the purpose described in the Listing
- Free from known safety defects that could endanger Renters or other road users
5.3 Accurate Information
Hosts must not misrepresent the condition, features, category, or availability of any Vehicle. Hosts must update Listings promptly to reflect any changes in vehicle condition, availability, or pricing.
5.4 Host Conduct
Hosts must treat Renters with respect and professionalism. Hosts must honour confirmed Bookings and comply with the terms of their Listings.
5.5 Compliance with StarTrip Policies
Hosts must comply with this Agreement and any additional policies, guidelines, or standards published by StarTrip in relation to the Rental Marketplace from time to time.
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6. Renter Obligations and Standards
6.1 Lawful Use
Renters must use rented Vehicles only for lawful purposes and in accordance with applicable PNG Law and the terms of the Host's Listing.
6.2 Driving Responsibility
Where a Renter operates a Vehicle without a chauffeur, the Renter is solely responsible for operating the Vehicle safely and in accordance with all applicable road traffic laws. The Renter must hold a valid driver's licence appropriate for the Vehicle category.
6.3 Care of Vehicle
Renters must:
- Return the Vehicle in the same condition as received, subject to normal fair wear and tear
- Not use the Vehicle for purposes that are illegal, dangerous, or not permitted by the Host's Listing
- Not sublet or transfer use of the Vehicle to any third party without the Host's written consent
- Not remove the Vehicle from any geographic area restricted by the Host in the Listing
- Comply with any mileage limits, fuel requirements, or operating conditions set out in the Listing
6.4 Damage and Loss
Renters are responsible for any damage, loss, or deterioration of the Vehicle during the Rental Period beyond normal fair wear and tear. Disputes regarding damage or loss are between the Host and the Renter. StarTrip may, at its discretion, assist with facilitating communication but is not responsible for the outcome of any such dispute or for any financial loss suffered by either party.
6.5 Compliance with Listing Terms
Renters must comply with all conditions set out in the Host's Listing, including fuel policies, return times, geographic restrictions, and any additional requirements specified by the Host.
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7. Insurance
7.1 Host Insurance Responsibility
Hosts are solely responsible for ensuring that their Vehicles are covered by appropriate and valid insurance for the type of rental activity being offered. This includes:
- Valid motor vehicle insurance
- Third-party liability insurance as required by PNG Law
- Any additional coverage required for commercial hire, fleet rental, or passenger-carrying operations under applicable PNG Law or relevant authority requirements
7.2 StarTrip Does Not Provide Insurance
StarTrip does not provide motor vehicle insurance, third-party insurance, passenger liability insurance, or any other form of insurance coverage to Hosts, Renters, or any other party in connection with rental transactions on the Platform. StarTrip makes no representation that any Vehicle listed on the Platform is insured or that any insurance held by a Host is valid, current, or sufficient.
7.3 Insurance Strongly Recommended
StarTrip strongly recommends that all Hosts maintain comprehensive insurance coverage appropriate to their vehicle type, rental activity, and the requirements of PNG Law. In many cases, valid insurance may be legally required to operate a vehicle for commercial rental purposes. Hosts are responsible for verifying their own insurance obligations.
7.4 Renter Responsibility
Renters are encouraged to verify with the Host the insurance status of any Vehicle prior to confirming a Booking. Renters should satisfy themselves as to the adequacy of insurance coverage before taking possession of any Vehicle. StarTrip is not responsible for any loss, damage, injury, or liability arising from inadequate or absent insurance coverage.
7.5 No Verification by StarTrip
StarTrip does not verify, validate, or monitor the insurance status of any Vehicle or Host. The requirement to maintain valid and appropriate insurance rests entirely with the Host. Failure by a Host to maintain adequate insurance does not affect StarTrip's limitation of liability under this Agreement.
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8. Pricing, Fees, and Payments
8.1 Host-Set Pricing
Hosts set their own rental pricing, including rates per hour, day, week, or other duration. StarTrip does not set, control, or guarantee rental pricing. Pricing displayed on the Platform is set by the Host and is subject to change at the Host's discretion.
8.2 Platform Fee
StarTrip charges a Platform Fee to Hosts for access to and use of the Rental Marketplace. The Platform Fee structure is as follows:
- From launch until 30 September 2026: No Platform Fee will be charged. Hosts may list and receive bookings at no cost during this introductory period.
- From 1 October 2026 onwards: StarTrip will charge a Platform Fee of ten percent (10%) of the total rental value of each completed Booking. StarTrip will provide reasonable advance notice of the commencement of Platform Fees.
StarTrip reserves the right to modify the Platform Fee structure, rate, or commencement date by providing reasonable electronic notice to Hosts through the Platform.
8.3 Payment Processing
Payments made through the Platform may be processed by StarTrip's appointed payment processors. Where card or digital payment methods are used, the underlying transaction may be processed in United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) or another currency. Applicable foreign exchange rates and fees may apply.
8.4 Host Payouts
Rental proceeds due to Hosts, after deduction of any applicable Platform Fee, will be credited to the Host's account in accordance with StarTrip's payment procedures as notified from time to time.
8.5 Taxes
Hosts are solely responsible for assessing, reporting, and paying all applicable taxes on rental income earned through the Platform, including any income tax, goods and services tax, or other applicable taxes under PNG Law. StarTrip does not withhold or remit taxes on behalf of Hosts except where required by law.
8.6 Disputes Regarding Payment
Any disputes between Hosts and Renters regarding rental charges, deposits, damage costs, or refunds are matters between those parties. StarTrip may, at its discretion, assist with facilitating communication but accepts no financial liability for the outcome of any payment dispute.
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9. Safety and Prohibited Conduct
9.1 Host Safety Obligations
Hosts must not list any Vehicle that:
- Is unroadworthy or unsafe for use
- Has a known mechanical defect that could endanger users or other road users
- Is unregistered or otherwise not compliant with applicable PNG Law
- Is subject to a recall, prohibition, or safety notice that has not been addressed
9.2 Prohibited Uses by Renters
Renters must not use a rented Vehicle for:
- Any illegal purpose or activity
- Street racing, reckless driving, or any dangerous activity
- The transportation of illegal goods or substances
- Any purpose not permitted by the Host's Listing
- Subletting or making the Vehicle available to unauthorised drivers
9.3 Prohibited Conduct by All Users
All users of the Rental Marketplace must not:
- Provide false or misleading information in connection with any Listing or Booking
- Engage in fraud, misrepresentation, or dishonest conduct
- Harass, threaten, or intimidate any other user
- Manipulate or abuse the Platform's review or rating systems
- Attempt to conduct rental transactions outside the Platform to avoid Platform Fees
9.4 Reporting Safety Concerns
Users are encouraged to report any safety concerns, unsafe Vehicles, or serious incidents to StarTrip through the Platform's support channels. StarTrip may take action, including removing Listings or suspending accounts, where credible safety concerns are identified.
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10. Limitation of Liability
10.1 StarTrip Not Liable for Rental Services
To the maximum extent permitted by PNG Law, StarTrip and Khoco shall not be liable for:
- Any personal injury, death, property damage, or loss arising from or in connection with any Vehicle rental or the use of any Vehicle listed on the Platform
- The mechanical condition, roadworthiness, safety, or fitness for purpose of any Vehicle
- The conduct, negligence, or misconduct of any Host, Renter, chauffeur, or third party
- Any loss arising from a cancelled, modified, or disputed Booking
- Any loss arising from inadequate, invalid, or absent insurance coverage
- Any financial loss, consequential loss, loss of income, or loss of profit suffered by any Host or Renter
- The accuracy, completeness, or currency of any Listing
10.2 No Guarantee of Availability or Quality
StarTrip does not guarantee the availability of any Vehicle, the accuracy of any Listing, the performance of any Host, or the suitability of any Vehicle for any particular purpose.
10.3 Liability Cap
To the maximum extent permitted by PNG Law, the total aggregate liability of StarTrip and Khoco to any Host or Renter arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall not exceed the total Platform Fees paid by that Host to StarTrip in the three-month period immediately preceding the event giving rise to the claim, or PGK 500, whichever is lesser.
10.4 Non-Excludable Rights
Nothing in this Agreement is intended to exclude or limit any rights or remedies that cannot be lawfully excluded or limited under PNG Law, including any applicable non-excludable consumer rights.
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11. Indemnity
11.1 Host Indemnity
Each Host shall indemnify and keep indemnified StarTrip, Khoco, and their respective officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against all claims, losses, damages, costs, and expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising out of or in connection with:
- Any Vehicle listed by the Host, including any accident, injury, death, or property damage caused by or in connection with that Vehicle
- The Host's breach of this Agreement or any applicable PNG Law
- Any misrepresentation or inaccuracy in the Host's Listing
- Any failure by the Host to maintain adequate insurance coverage
- Any claim made by a Renter against StarTrip or Khoco arising from the Host's rental operations
11.2 Renter Indemnity
Each Renter shall indemnify and keep indemnified StarTrip, Khoco, and their respective officers, directors, employees, and agents from and against all claims, losses, damages, costs, and expenses (including reasonable legal fees) arising out of or in connection with:
- Any damage to or loss of a Vehicle during the Rental Period caused by the Renter or any person to whom the Renter allowed access to the Vehicle
- The Renter's breach of this Agreement, any Listing terms, or any applicable PNG Law
- Any illegal or unauthorised use of a rented Vehicle
- Any claim made by a Host or third party arising from the Renter's use of a Vehicle
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12. Reviews and Ratings
Hosts and Renters may submit ratings and reviews of each other through the Platform following a completed Booking. Reviews and ratings must be honest, accurate, and not defamatory, abusive, or misleading. StarTrip may remove any review that it determines in its reasonable discretion to be in breach of this Agreement or applicable law. StarTrip does not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of any review or rating published on the Platform.
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13. Suspension and Termination
13.1 Suspension by StarTrip
StarTrip may suspend or permanently deactivate any Host or Renter account where StarTrip determines, acting reasonably, that the user has:
- Breached this Agreement or any applicable StarTrip policy
- Engaged in fraudulent, dishonest, or abusive conduct
- Listed an unsafe or unroadworthy Vehicle
- Created legal, regulatory, reputational, or safety risk for StarTrip, Khoco, or other users
- Repeatedly failed to honour Booking commitments
- Attempted to conduct rental transactions outside the Platform
13.2 Termination by User
Hosts and Renters may terminate their accounts at any time by ceasing to use the Platform and providing notice through the Platform's support channels. Termination does not release a user from any outstanding obligations, including payment obligations or liability for damage.
13.3 Effect of Termination
Upon termination, all active Listings will be removed and all pending Bookings may be cancelled. Outstanding obligations, including liability for damage, unpaid fees, and indemnity obligations, survive termination of this Agreement.
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14. Data and Privacy
StarTrip collects and processes personal data in accordance with the StarTrip Privacy Policy as updated from time to time. By using the Rental Marketplace, you consent to the collection, processing, and transfer of your personal data as described in the StarTrip Privacy Policy. The StarTrip Privacy Policy is available at www.startriptechnologies.com and is incorporated into this Agreement by reference.
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15. Intellectual Property
All intellectual property rights in the Platform and the Rental Marketplace are owned by StarTrip or its licensors. Hosts and Renters do not acquire any intellectual property rights in the Platform. By submitting a Listing or any content to the Platform, Hosts grant StarTrip a non-exclusive, royalty-free, worldwide licence to use, display, and reproduce that content for the purpose of operating and promoting the Rental Marketplace.
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16. Amendments to This Agreement
StarTrip may amend this Agreement at any time by posting an updated version on the Platform or by providing electronic notice to registered users. Where StarTrip makes a material amendment, it may require users to accept the updated terms as a condition of continued access. Continued use of the Rental Marketplace after any amendment takes effect constitutes acceptance of the updated Agreement.
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17. Governing Law and Dispute Resolution
17.1 Governing Law
This Agreement and any non-contractual obligations arising out of or in connection with it are governed by the laws of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea.
17.2 Informal Resolution
If you have a complaint or dispute, you should first contact StarTrip support so that StarTrip may attempt to resolve the matter informally.
17.3 Arbitration
If a dispute is not resolved within thirty (30) days of written notice, it shall be finally resolved by binding arbitration administered by the Singapore International Arbitration Centre (SIAC) in accordance with the SIAC Rules in force at that time.
- The seat of arbitration shall be Singapore
- The tribunal shall consist of a sole arbitrator
- The language of arbitration shall be English
- The arbitral award shall be final and binding and may be enforced in any court of competent jurisdiction
17.4 Disputes Between Hosts and Renters
Disputes between Hosts and Renters arising out of a Rental Agreement are matters between those parties and are not the responsibility of StarTrip. StarTrip may at its discretion assist with facilitating communication but has no obligation to mediate, arbitrate, or resolve such disputes.
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18. General Provisions
18.1 Entire Agreement
This Agreement, together with the StarTrip Privacy Policy and any additional policies incorporated by reference, constitutes the entire agreement between StarTrip and the user in relation to the Rental Marketplace.
18.2 Severability
If any provision of this Agreement is held invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions remain in full force and effect.
18.3 Assignment
Users may not assign or transfer their rights or obligations under this Agreement. StarTrip may assign or transfer its rights and obligations to an affiliate or in connection with a merger, sale, or reorganisation.
18.4 Force Majeure
StarTrip shall not be liable for any failure or delay in performance caused by events beyond its reasonable control, including natural disasters, civil unrest, power outages, telecommunications failures, internet disruptions, government restrictions, or third-party service interruptions.
18.5 Language
This Agreement is drawn up in the English language. If translated, the English version shall prevail.
18.6 No Waiver
Failure by StarTrip to enforce any provision of this Agreement shall not constitute a waiver of StarTrip's right to enforce that provision in the future.
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19. Contact Information
For any questions regarding this Agreement, please contact:
StarTrip Technologies FZ-LLC
RAKEZ Business Zone, Al Nakheel Area
P.O. Box 10055, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
Email: admin@startriptechnologies.com
Support: support@startripapp.com
Local PNG Support (Khoco Limited):
Assists with operational support only. Not a legal, financial, or contractual representative of StarTrip.
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ACCEPTANCE
By creating a Host Listing or confirming a Booking as a Renter on the StarTrip Rental Marketplace, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by this Rental Marketplace Agreement, the StarTrip Privacy Policy, and any additional policies published by StarTrip from time to time. Electronic acceptance through the Platform constitutes your binding agreement to these Terms.
