Insurance

[Yvonne431]

Hi everyone

I am presently in the process of setting up my Airbnb in Perth Australia

I'm finding the whole insurance thing quite confusing.  I have a quote from Youi for basic landlord insurance, they know it's an Airbnb.

But, it's the contents I'm struggling with.  They don't offer this.

All I want to know is for example, if someone stays at my place and purposely trashes 2 x TV's or ruins a carpet or sofa either by accident or on purpose will the Airbnb insurance cover this and if not who will?

Many Thanks in advance

[Kath9]

@Yvonne431 welcome to Airbnb and the host forum! Personally, I would not rely on the Airbnb host insurance - technically it should cover damages, but it appears that they rarely pay out (there are plenty of stories about this on this forum). However, to get outside insurance, I believe you need to be registered as a business. I am also looking into insurance (with RAC and my home loan provider) and this is what I have been told. Maybe you should look into some other insurers if Youi does not cover contents. I would also be very vigilant about who you accept, especially for an off-site listing. Best of luck and happy hosting!

[Yvonne431]

Thanks Kath, I'll look into this and let you know if I come up with anything interesting!

[Sarah977]

@Yvonne431  Also keep in mind that an Airbnb should be fairly bulletproof. We all want our places to look nice, but putting in really high end things that will be expensive to repair or replace isn't a great idea especially if you are an off-site host. Try to furnish with things which look nice,but aren't necessarily expensive. It's better to buy dishes that can be easily matched, like standard pieces from Ikea, for instance, than a set that you won't be able to find individual replacements for. Upholstered furniture should have removable, washable covers, etc.  You don't want to be one of those hosts who has to cry because the guests spilled red wine all over a $300 duvet cover 🙂

[Lyn3]

@Yvonne431 @Sarah977

Hi Yvonne, welcome to the Airbnb community. I agree with Sarah's thoughts...keep your contents inexpensive, but at the same time attractive and comfortable, and you won't be overly sad when an item is broken. 

Other hosts have posted that they put away x amount of dollars from each payout, and then that money becomes their own personal "insurance" stash, which they use when items need to be replaced.

Wishing you all the best as a host,

Cheers, Lyn 🙂

[Lena-and-Birger0]

Hi Yvonne,

Having a good insurance is imperative. Having the wrong type may end with them refusing to pay on a claim.

We've have successfully claimed on the Airbnb host cover several times but it is difficult and time consuming. 

Check out EBM as they provide an insurance policy specifically tailored for short term rentals.

Cheers,

Birger

[Nick1742]

We are looking to insure with EBM. Has anyone had any experience with them? We are Airbnb hosts and do not just want to rely on Airbnb insurance. 

Cheers,

Elizabeth