Airbnb Host Insurance: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re a host on Airbnb, you already know the benefits of renting out your property. However, with the rise of vacation rentals comes the need for insurance. After all, renting your home or apartment to strangers comes with its risks. In this article, we’ll discuss Airbnb host insurance, including what it is, what it covers, and what you need to know before purchasing a policy.

What is Airbnb Host Insurance?

Airbnb Host Insurance is a form of insurance designed specifically for Airbnb hosts. It provides coverage for property damage, theft, and third-party liability claims that arise during the rental period. The insurance is provided by Airbnb and is intended to protect hosts against financial losses that may occur as a result of guest damage or theft.

It is important to note that Airbnb Host Insurance is not a replacement for homeowners insurance. Instead, it is designed to supplement your existing policy and provide additional protection during the rental period.

What Does Airbnb Host Insurance Cover?

Airbnb Host Insurance provides coverage for a variety of incidents that may occur during the rental period, including:

Incidents Covered
Examples
Property Damage
Broken furniture or appliances, damage to walls or floors
Theft
Stolen personal belongings, missing cash or jewelry
Third-Party Liability
Bodily injury, property damage, or legal fees resulting from a guest’s actions

It is important to note that the coverage limits for Airbnb Host Insurance vary depending on the country or region in which you are located. In the United States, coverage limits start at $1 million and can be increased for an additional fee.

What is Not Covered by Airbnb Host Insurance?

Just like any other insurance policy, Airbnb Host Insurance has limitations and exclusions. Some incidents that may not be covered include:

  • Intentional damage caused by the host
  • Acts of terrorism or war
  • Mold, fungus, or bed bugs
  • Wear and tear or gradual deterioration of the property
  • Damage to shared or common areas that are not part of the listing

It is important to read the terms and conditions of your policy carefully to understand what is and is not covered.

Do I Need Airbnb Host Insurance?

While Airbnb Host Insurance is not required by law, it is highly recommended for hosts. Without insurance, hosts are personally responsible for any damages or losses that occur during the rental period. This can be especially costly if a guest is injured on the property and files a lawsuit.

In addition to protecting you financially, Airbnb Host Insurance can also provide peace of mind. Knowing that you are covered in the event of an unexpected incident can make hosting on Airbnb much less stressful.

How Much Does Airbnb Host Insurance Cost?

The cost of Airbnb Host Insurance varies depending on the country or region in which you are located, as well as the level of coverage you choose. In the United States, coverage starts at $60 for a 30-day rental period. The cost of coverage can increase if you choose to increase your coverage limits.

It is important to note that Airbnb takes a 15% commission on the cost of your insurance policy. This means that if your policy costs $100, Airbnb will charge you $115.

How to Purchase Airbnb Host Insurance

Purchasing Airbnb Host Insurance is easy. Simply log in to your Airbnb account and navigate to the Host Protection Insurance page. From there, you can select your coverage level and rental period. Once you have purchased coverage, it will automatically apply to all eligible bookings.

Airbnb Host Insurance FAQ

Q: Does Airbnb Host Insurance cover bed bugs?

A: No, Airbnb Host Insurance does not cover damage caused by bed bugs.

Q: What happens if a guest causes damage to my property?

A: If a guest causes damage to your property, you should file a claim with Airbnb as soon as possible. Be sure to document any damage with photos or videos and provide any necessary receipts or estimates.

Q: Does Airbnb Host Insurance cover lost rent?

A: No, Airbnb Host Insurance does not cover lost rent.

Q: Can I purchase Airbnb Host Insurance for a long-term rental?

A: No, Airbnb Host Insurance is only available for short-term rentals (up to 90 days).

Q: Does Airbnb Host Insurance cover my personal liability?

A: No, Airbnb Host Insurance only provides liability coverage for incidents that occur during the rental period. If you are looking for personal liability coverage, you will need to purchase a separate policy.

Conclusion

If you are considering hosting on Airbnb, it is important to understand the risks involved and take steps to protect yourself financially. Airbnb Host Insurance can provide peace of mind and help ensure that you are covered in the event of an unexpected incident. By understanding what is and is not covered by your policy, you can make an informed decision about whether Airbnb Host Insurance is right for you.