US Owners: How do you insure your short term rental STR

[Melissa1881]

I know insurance needs vary worldwide, but how do US folks insure their home when they use it for STR?

1. Do you use your homeowners policy only along with coverage provided by airbnb?
2. Do you have an addendum to your homeowners policy that allows you to rent for a number of days (for example 12 weeks or summer)
3. Do you use a special policy for STRs:  Proper or CBIZ? if so would you mind sharing in the comments?
4. Other?  Again if you would share in the comments that would be helpful

Any info would be helpful as I am finding a hard time finding insurance.  Proper has good coverage but is twice what my home owners policy is and I am losing money on my STR as it is.

Thanks!

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Melissa1881 most normal home policies are voided if the place is used for short term rental. As such if it burnt down when not rented or due to an electrical fault when rented there would be no payout.

[Helen3 · Accepted solution]

The Airbnb Guarantee is not a replacement for having your own home insurance for short term lets @Melissa1881 

You will not be covered by your homeowners insurance as you are running a commercial business.

You need your own home insurance for short term lets with the Airbnb Guarantee

If you want to know what is covered under the Airbnb Guarantee you can look here

https://www.airbnb.co.uk/help/article/279

[Melissa1881]

Thanks all. I am looking what everyone is using in terms of insurance.  Outside of Propr and CBiZ I cannot find policies that cover this.  I know folks HAVE to have insurance.  So what are others in the US doing for coverage?  I know that airbnb coverage is limited which is why I need policy that covers this.  

[Kitty-and-Creek0]

@Melissa1881 

We have a separate business insurance policy that covers our STR business. It is definitely necessary, and not just because our permit requires it. A homeowners policy does not cover this business. 

[Dawn241]

State Farm allows for a small rider. For my 1400sf house in Bisbee AZ it’s about $80 extra per year. 

[Kelli405]

Does anyone know for international insurance? In Mexico Baja California? Any help or guide me in the right direction. This is my first rental. Thank you