What Is AirCover for Hosts?
AirCover is Airbnb’s built-in protection program that automatically applies to every host at no cost. It includes several components:
| Protection | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Host Damage Protection | Up to $3 million for guest-caused damage to your property and belongings |
| Host Liability Insurance | Up to $1 million if you’re found legally responsible for guest injury or property damage |
| Experiences & Services Liability | Up to $1 million for Experience hosts |
| Guest Identity Verification | ID verification for booking guests |
| Reservation Screening | Machine learning to flag high-risk reservations for parties/damage |
| 24-Hour Safety Line | Emergency support access |
What AirCover Does NOT Cover
This is the part most hosts miss. AirCover has significant limitations:
- Normal wear and tear — gradual deterioration is not covered
- Cash and securities — theft of cash is excluded
- Natural disasters — flood, storm, or earthquake damage
- Non-Airbnb bookings — if you list on VRBO, Booking.com, or take direct bookings, AirCover does not apply to those stays
- Loss of income — if you don’t have future bookings at the time of damage, lost revenue isn’t covered
- Your personal liability outside of stays — if someone gets hurt on your property when it’s not during an Airbnb stay, you’re not covered
Claim Requirements
If a guest damages your property, you must submit a reimbursement request through Airbnb’s Resolution Center within 14 days of the responsible guest’s checkout. The guest has 24 hours to respond. If they don’t pay, you can involve Airbnb Support — but you must submit all evidence within 30 days of the damage occurring.
Document everything with photos, videos, repair estimates, and receipts. Superhosts get priority support and faster claim processing.
Why You Still Need Your Own Insurance
AirCover is not a substitute for personal insurance. Standard homeowners or renters insurance typically does not cover short-term rental activity. If your insurer discovers you’re hosting without notifying them, any claim could be denied.
A dedicated short-term rental insurance policy typically covers:
- Property damage (broader coverage than AirCover)
- Liability claims (not limited to Airbnb stays)
- Loss of business income
- Coverage across all platforms and direct bookings
- Coverage for your property, not just guest-caused damage
Several companies specialize in STR insurance: Proper Insurance, CBIZ, Safely, and Steadily are popular options. Expect to pay $1,000–$3,000 annually for a dedicated STR policy, depending on your property value and coverage level.
Non-negotiable: A single guest injury or significant property damage event without proper coverage can cost more than years of hosting income. Do not skip this step. The proposed Hocking County regulations may also require specific minimum insurance coverage for STR operators.
LLC Formation
An LLC is not required by Airbnb or the government, but many hosts choose to form one. An LLC separates your personal assets from your rental business, providing a layer of liability protection if a guest is injured on your property. It also offers potential tax flexibility. Consult with an attorney and CPA about whether an LLC makes sense for your situation.
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