What does the Airbnb damage policy cover?
People often use “Airbnb damage policy” to mean Host damage protection, part of AirCover for Hosts. Airbnb describes this as protection for certain eligible damage caused by guests; it is not an insurance policy. Its terms, exclusions and reimbursement process determine whether a request is eligible. Read Airbnb's Host damage protection explanation.
Does Airbnb cover damage caused by guests?
Some guest-caused property damage can fall within Host damage protection, but reimbursement is not automatic. Normal wear and tear, routine checkout cleaning and other excluded losses should not be treated as covered damage. Keep evidence of what happened and check the applicable terms rather than assuming a booking guarantees reimbursement.
What should a host do after discovering damage?
- Photograph the damage and retain relevant messages, receipts and repair estimates.
- Record the booking and when the damage was discovered.
- Review the current reimbursement steps promptly, including the deadline to contact the guest through Airbnb.
- Notify your insurer as required by your insurance policy.
- Keep records of any payment already received for the same loss.
Airbnb's Host Damage Protection Terms require action within 14 days after the responsible guest's checkout and set out further conditions. Follow the current terms for the full process; a reimbursement request is not confirmation that a loss will be paid.
Do I still need short-term rental insurance?
Discuss the hosting activity with your insurer or licensed broker before relying on a homeowner policy. Airbnb states that its host protections do not replace appropriate homeowner, renter or liability insurance. Its hosting insurance guidance explains why the policy needs to be reviewed.
Questions for an insurance review
Does the policy allow short-term paying guests? How are accidental damage, deliberate damage, theft and liability treated? Are furnishings insured at an appropriate value? What deductible applies, and is loss of rental income available after an insured event? Also describe bookings made outside Airbnb so the review reflects the whole business.
See our Airbnb insurance guide for a broader hosting checklist. Platform protection and an insurance policy have different terms; compare each against the risks at your property.
