The risks you face without insurance in short-term rental management
Insurance for a holiday home is one of the most underestimated aspects for owners approaching short-term rentals. Standard home insurance covers accidental damage, but often explicitly excludes damage caused by paying guests — a crucial distinction that can leave the owner completely exposed in the event of a claim.
Why standard insurance is not enough
The fire and theft policy most owners have for their home is designed for personal, not commercial, use. When you rent to paying guests — even through Airbnb or Booking — the property is used for commercial purposes, and many insurance companies may refuse compensation for damage caused by guests if you do not hold a specific policy. This includes damage to furnishings and the structure, as well as third-party liability.
Airbnb's AirCover: what it really covers
Airbnb offers its own protection called AirCover, which includes damage cover up to 3 million dollars and liability cover up to 1 million. However, AirCover has important limitations: it does not cover every type of damage, requires a specific claims procedure within 14 days, and does not apply to bookings managed outside Airbnb (e.g. Booking.com or direct bookings). It therefore cannot be the only protection you rely on.
How to choose the right policy for short-term rentals
The main options are: specific Airbnb host policies offered by some Italian insurers (Europ Assistance, Allianz, etc.); a multi-risk home policy extended for commercial/rental use; and specific third-party liability insurance for non-hotel accommodation facilities. The cost varies between 200 and 600 euros per year depending on the cover and the property's value — a negligible investment compared with the potential loss to be covered.
Which policy to choose to protect your property intended for short-term rentals
YouBnb includes in its service the verification and management of appropriate insurance cover for your property. Do not leave your apartment exposed to avoidable risks. Request a Free Evaluation.
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