Homeowners Insurance and AirBnB: What Hosts Need to Know
Renting out your home or spare room through Airbnb can be a great source of income, but it also introduces new risks. Understanding how homeowners’ insurance applies and where it may fall short is key to protecting yourself and your property.
Standard Homeowners Insurance Limitations
Traditional homeowners’ insurance is designed to cover personal use, not business activity. When you host paying guests, many insurers may view it as a commercial endeavor. This could leave gaps in coverage if a guest is injured or causes damage during their stay.
Liability Concerns for Hosts
Accidents can happen, from a guest slipping on the stairs to a kitchen mishap. If you’re found responsible, liability costs can quickly add up. Relying solely on a standard policy may not provide adequate protection, leaving you vulnerable to legal and medical expenses.
Property Damage Risks
While homeowners’ insurance typically covers accidental damage, it may exclude losses caused by paying guests. Airbnb offers Host Protection and Host Guarantee programs, but these have limitations and may not fully replace or repair your property in every situation.
Specialized Coverage Options
Many insurance companies now offer endorsements or short-term rental policies explicitly designed for hosts. These plans can extend liability and property coverage to fill the gaps left by standard homeowners policies.
Why Work with a Local Insurance Expert
An experienced insurance agency can review your current policy, explain where coverage may be insufficient, and recommend tailored options to keep your home, income, and guests protected while you host through Airbnb.
Visit Roberts Family Insurance in Friendswood, TX
At Roberts Family Insurance, we’re proud to provide Friendswood homeowners with the coverage they need. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and learn more.