Most Homeowners Policies Don't Cover STRs
When you rent your property—even occasionally—you're running a business. Standard homeowners insurance explicitly excludes commercial activity, leaving you personally liable for damages, injuries, or lawsuits.
Understanding Your Options
There are three main types of insurance policies available to property owners. Understanding the differences is crucial for choosing the right coverage.
Essential Coverage Types
Make sure your policy includes these key coverage areas.
Questions for Your Insurance Agent
Print this list and bring it to your next insurance conversation.
Pro Tips & Best Practices
Strategies to maximize your protection beyond just insurance.
What Platforms Actually Cover
Platform protection programs are helpful but have significant limitations.
Which Provider Is Right for You?
Answer these questions to help determine which insurance solution fits your situation best.
Do you currently have homeowners insurance on your rental property?
Yes, I have homeowners insurance
→ Consider Safely for supplemental coverage that works alongside your existing policy
No, or I need to replace it
→ Consider Proper Insurance for a complete commercial STR policy
How do you primarily get bookings?
Mostly through Airbnb/Vrbo
→ Safely can fill gaps in platform coverage with per-booking pricing
Mix of platforms + direct bookings
→ Proper Insurance covers all booking channels with one policy
What's your biggest concern?
Guest screening & damage protection
→ Safely includes guest screening plus damage coverage
Full liability & income protection
→ Proper Insurance offers comprehensive commercial coverage
Not sure? Many hosts use both: Proper Insurance as their primary policy and Safely for additional guest screening. The right choice depends on your specific situation—we recommend getting quotes from both providers.
Our Recommended Providers
These companies specialize in short-term rental insurance and understand the unique risks hosts face.
Proper Insurance
Commercial policy built specifically for STRs. Replaces your homeowners policy entirely.
- Full property coverage
- $1M+ liability
- Income loss protection
- All booking channels
Safely
Guest screening plus supplemental damage protection. Works alongside your existing policy.
- Guest screening
- Damage protection
- $1M liability
- Per-booking pricing
Pet-Friendly Rental Insurance
If you allow pets at your property, there are specific insurance considerations to address.
Before Allowing Pets, Verify:
Does your policy cover dog bites or pet-related injuries to guests?
Some insurers exclude certain breeds (pit bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, etc.)
Confirm pet damage is covered under your STR policy, not just standard wear
You may need a pet-specific rider for full protection
Pro Tip: Collect a separate pet damage deposit or require guests to have their own pet liability coverage for added protection. Consider charging $75–$150 per stay to offset additional cleaning and potential wear.
Related: Read our complete guide on Should I Allow Pets in My Short-Term Rental? for the full pros, cons, and operational requirements.
Essential Safety Products
Required equipment that may affect your insurance coverage
Smoke & CO Detector
First Alert 3-pack combo unit
Shop on Amazon →CO Detector
Kidde digital display, 10-year
Shop on Amazon →Fire Extinguisher
First Alert ABC rated, home use
Shop on Amazon →First Aid Kit
299-piece emergency kit
Shop on Amazon →Fire Blanket
Kitchen grease fire protection
Shop on Amazon →Emergency Flashlight
Rechargeable, power outage ready
Shop on Amazon →Need Help Getting Started?
Our team can help you understand your coverage needs and connect you with the right insurance provider.