Think You’re Covered on Airbnb? Here’s What You Should Know!

If you're a property owner on Airbnb, the first thing you're probably wondering is, "Am I covered if something goes wrong?" Or you've been on the platform so long that you've forgotten about their coverage. Either way, let's talk about Airbnb AirCover—a built-in protection program designed to keep you and your property safe from the unexpected. Whether it's a guest canceling at the last minute or someone's furry friend treating your living room like a chew toy, AirCover promises to have your back. But just how far does that protection go?

What Hosts Get with AirCover:

• $3M Host Damage Protection: This covers damages to your property and belongings, including valuables like art or vehicles parked at your property.
• $1M Host Liability Insurance: You're covered if a guest is injured or their property is damaged while staying with you.
• 24-Hour Safety Line: For any safety concerns, help is just a call away.
• Income Loss Protection: If guest-related damage forces you to cancel bookings, your lost income is covered.

AirCover recently upped its damage protection from $1 million to $3 million, expanding its coverage to include motor vehicles and valuable items like artwork​ (NerdWallet: Finance smarter). However, despite these updates, it's still smart to maintain your personal insurance, as AirCover doesn't cover everything and can vary based on where you live​.

What Guests Get with AirCover:

• Booking Protection: Guests are guaranteed a similar or better home if a host cancels within 30 days of check-in.
• Check-In Guarantee: If a guest can't check into their booked property, Airbnb finds them another home.
• Get-What-You-Booked Guarantee: If the listing significantly differs from what was advertised, guests can get a refund or rebook elsewhere.
• 24-Hour Safety Line: Guests get priority access to safety agents and local emergency services if necessary.

Why Hosts and Guests Like AirCover:

• Stronger Protection: Comprehensive coverage builds confidence for both hosts and guests.
• Pet Protection: Damages caused by pets are covered, which adds an extra layer of security.
• Faster Resolutions: Airbnb has improved its reimbursement process, especially for superhosts, though some still find it frustrating to navigate the claims​.

What to Keep in Mind:

• Coverage Limits: AirCover doesn't replace personal insurance; some claims may take time to process.
• Claims Process: Minor wear and tear claims can be tricky to get approved, which frustrates some hosts​.
• Personal Insurance: Keeping a personal insurance policy active ensures complete protection, especially since AirCover may not cover all situations​.

Action Items for Hosts Regarding AirCover:

1. Understand AirCover's Details: Review what AirCover does and doesn't cover to make informed decisions about your property.
2. Maintain Personal Insurance: Keep your insurance policy active to ensure full protection, as AirCover may not cover everything.
3. Review Local Regulations: Make sure your property complies with local insurance requirements.
4. Document Your Property: Regularly update photos and descriptions of your property's condition. This makes filing claims easier.
5. Set Clear House Rules: Clearly communicate expectations with guests to reduce the chances of damage. TIP Smart Pineapple has an AI-powered app to help with setting up your house rules!
6. Enhance Property Safety: To minimize risks, equip your property with safety features like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
7. Stay Informed About Updates: Airbnb regularly updates AirCover—stay in the loop to take advantage of new features.
8. Prepare for the Claims Process: Learn how to file a claim in advance so you're ready if something goes wrong.
9. Adjust Fees as Needed: You might consider lowering cleaning or pet fees, knowing you have extra protection.

👎 Downsides of Airbnb AirCover:

While AirCover provides valuable protection, there are some downsides to keep in mind:

• Slow Claims Process: Hosts report long delays, especially with minor or complex damage claims​
• Coverage Gaps: AirCover doesn't cover every type of damage. For instance, some claims may be denied due to "wear and tear." You'll still need personal insurance to cover all scenarios​(
• Strict Damage Assessments: Some hosts feel that minor wear and tear is not fairly compensated, which can leave them feeling vulnerable​.
• Generalized Coverage: The one-size-fits-all approach may not meet the specific needs of larger or high-value properties​.
• High Bar for Claims Approval: Some hosts find it difficult to get claims approved, even for valid damage​

Here's the good news:

‍AirCover is automatically included at no cost to you. That's right—no extra fees. Airbnb covers guest identity verification, damage protection, and a 24/7 safety line.

But—spoiler alert

—it's not all sunshine and $3 million protection policies. While the coverage has been expanded, there are still gaps. Claims can take time, damage might be classified as "wear and tear," and some hosts find the reimbursement process more frustrating than they'd like.

So, is your a$$ really covered? Well, kind of! AirCover gives you a safety net, but smart hosts keep their personal insurance active for total peace of mind. After all, AirCover might not handle every situation, especially if you own a high-value or unique property.

Feeling like your Airbnb game needs a boost?

Grab the 'Thriving in Uncertain Times: Success Strategies Workbook' and arm yourself with the tools to keep your rental thriving, no matter what curveballs come your way!"