As summer 2025 approaches, thousands of property owners are getting ready to list their homes on Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms. But before welcoming guests, it’s crucial to understand the insurance implications of hosting. Whether you're a first-time host or an insurance agent helping clients prep for peak season, this guide breaks down everything you need to know about Airbnb insurance for hosts.
Do Airbnb Hosts Need Special Insurance Coverage?
Absolutely. If you’re renting out your property on Airbnb—even occasionally—you need insurance that specifically protects against the risks of short-term rentals. Standard homeowners insurance often won’t cover property damage or liability claims that occur while you're hosting guests, and relying only on Airbnb’s built-in protection can leave serious gaps.
Airbnb insurance for hosts—typically in the form of landlord insurance or vacation rental insurance—is designed to fill those gaps. It covers scenarios like guest-caused damage, injury liability, and even lost income if your property becomes uninhabitable after a covered event.
If you're earning income from your rental, you're running a business—and you need insurance that treats it that way.
Why Your Homeowners Insurance Might Not Be Enough
A common question: Will my home insurance go up if I host on Airbnb? In many cases, yes—and sometimes, your homeowners insurer may even drop your coverage altogether if they learn you're using the property as a rental without proper disclosure.
Most homeowners policies are designed for owner-occupied risks, not the frequent turnover of guests that comes with Airbnb hosting. Even if your insurer doesn’t cancel your policy, they might deny claims related to short-term rental activity. That’s where landlord insurance comes in.
What Type of Protection Insurance Do Airbnb Hosts Need?
For Airbnb hosts, the best protection comes from landlord insurance tailored for short-term rentals. This coverage can include:
- Dwelling coverage: For structural damage caused by guests
- Contents coverage: For personal property inside the unit
- Liability insurance: For injuries to guests or property damage they cause to others
- Loss of income: If your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event
In addition, you may want to explore supplemental vacation rental insurance or add-on endorsements for theft, vandalism, or high guest turnover.
Liability Insurance: Why It’s Non-Negotiable for Hosts
Liability claims can be devastating. If a guest gets injured on your property, you could be sued for medical costs, lost wages, or more. Airbnb does offer Host Liability Insurance, but it comes with limitations—and there’s no guarantee your claim will be accepted.
That’s why having a separate liability insurance policy through a landlord insurance provider is smart. It ensures you're not left on the hook if Airbnb declines to pay out or if a claim exceeds their coverage limits.
How Landlord Insurance Compares to Airbnb’s Built-In Protection
Airbnb provides two types of host protection:
- Host Guarantee: Covers damage to your property up to $1 million—but not liability claims.
- Host Liability Insurance: Covers liability up to $1 million—but with many exclusions (like intentional acts or certain pet-related claims).
Landlord insurance, on the other hand, is specifically designed to cover rental properties. It typically provides more robust, dependable protection and can be customized for short-term or long-term rentals.
Related post: The Ultimate Guide to Short-Term Rental Insurance
Final Tips for Hosting Smart in Summer 2025
- Talk to an independent insurance agent: They can help you assess your risks and find the right policy.
- Be transparent with your insurer: Failing to disclose rental activity can void your coverage.
- Understand your Airbnb terms: Know what’s covered by Airbnb—and what isn’t.
Protect Your Airbnb Property the Right Way
As a host, your property is your business—and your investment. Make sure it’s protected with landlord insurance that covers everything from guest injuries to property damage.
Steadily offers fast, affordable landlord insurance policies built for short-term and Airbnb hosts. Whether you're listing for the first time or scaling up this summer, we’ve got you covered.
.png)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.png)