Pennsylvania insurance commissioner dispenses Airbnb tips in light of upcoming major events

Pennsylvania Commissioner Miller advises both Airbnb hosts and renters to know the full details of their policies

Insurance News

By Lyle Adriano

With the U.S. Open Golf Tournament and the Democratic National Convention events nearing, Pennsylvania insurance commissioner issued an official statement dispensing consumer tips for users of home sharing services like Airbnb.

"With thousands of visitors from around the world coming to Pennsylvania for these two major events, homeowners may find an opportunity to rent their homes and attendees may need a place to stay as hotel rooms will fill quickly, leading to much greater use of sites such as Airbnb," Miller said. "While these are great ways for people to make extra money or find a room if hotels are full, both hosts and guests should keep important insurance considerations in mind when using Airbnb or similar sites."

The U.S. Open Golf Tournament will be played in Oakmont, while the Democratic National Convention will be held in Philadelphia.

Miller’s office issued the following suggestions for both home sharing hosts and guests:

For Hosts:
  • While Airbnb offers hosts protection liability insurance with up to $1 million coverage, there are exclusions; hosts should not hesitate to ask Airbnb what is not covered by their policy
  • Hosts should notify their insurance agents or companies beforehand that their homes are being rented out
  • Check your homeowner’s policy—most homeowner’s policies make exclusions for rental activity. Consider a separate short-term policy to cover the stay of a guest
  • Ask guests to show proof of renter’s insurance before booking
  • Just like with guests, hosts should not forget to take photos of any damage to serve as proof
For Guests:
  • Regardless of how long your trip is, or how far, consider traveler’s insurance—it could protect you in the event of an emergency
  • Review your renter’s or homeowner’s policy; it may provide coverage for your belongings while you travel
  • If something does happen, remember to take photos to serve as proof of the damages

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