November 23, 2024

Are you sure your insurance covers your property for Airbnb?

Airbnb has become one of the most popular home-sharing sites in Australia.  There are over 40,000 homes for rent through Airbnb and based on a recent survey 54% out of 200 accommodation hosts in Australia were uncertain if they had adequate cover for their home-sharing activities.

Airbnb is a global company privately held and headquartered in San Francisco operating an online marketplace.  Airbnb allows members to use the service to arrange or offer board and lodging, mainly homestays or travel experiences.

Airbnb offers Host Protection Insurance to those who list their homes on the website.

The insurance is free of charge, however, it DOES NOT COVER EVERYTHING and does not replace a comprehensive Home and Contents or Landlords Insurance policy.

The Host Protection Insurance mainly provides liability coverage for up to $1 million per occurrence for third party bodily injury or property damage claims.

Here are some examples of what the Host Protection Insurance program DOES NOT cover:

The Major Concern for AirBnB’s

The big concern here is, “Does your insurer know?”

Your Home or Landlord Insurer needs to be aware that the property is being used as an Airbnb.  If you have not disclosed this to your insurer they have the right to decline a claim whether it involves Airbnb guests or not.

Many standard Insurers are not covering properties that are being used as an Airbnb, therefore its extremely important you seek professional advise to find the right cover.

ARMA Insurance Brokers have a specialist team who are dedicated to finding the right insurance for your home and are experts on Airbnb Insurance.

Please contact our office to arrange a complimentary risk review and quote.

Source: https://www.choice.com.au/money/insurance/home-and-contents/articles/airbnb-insurance-warning-131115