What is AirCover and How Does it Protect You in 2023?
As an Airbnb host, providing a safe and comfortable experience for your guests is a top priority. But what about protecting yourself and your property?
That’s where Airbnb AirCover comes in.
This comprehensive protection program offers hosts peace of mind by covering a range of potential issues, from property damage to liability claims. So let’s dive in and explore “what is AirCover” and how Airbnb AirCover can safeguard your hosting experience in 2023.
Key Takeaways
- Airbnb AirCover provides comprehensive insurance for Airbnb hosts, including pet damage protection and liability coverage.
- Hosts can benefit from deep cleaning protection, identity verification screening and income loss reimbursement with certain exclusions.
- Maximize your AirCover protection by thoroughly screening guests, having clear rental agreements and taking a home inventory.
Understanding Airbnb AirCover
Airbnb AirCover, a unique protection program for Airbnb hosts, offers up to $1 million in damage and liability insurance. The comprehensive program includes Host Damage Protection, Host Liability Insurance, and extra liability insurance for hosts of Airbnb Experiences, thus safeguarding both guests and hosts.
Offering more comprehensive protection than the previous Host Protection policy, Airbnb AirCover includes coverage for:
- pet damages
- deep cleaning
- liability for Experience hosts
- income loss for hosts, should they need to cancel a booking due to required repairs or deep cleaning.
Host Damage Protection
Host Damage Protection is a host damage protection program for hosts, providing coverage for property damage caused by guests and their pets during their stay, up to $3,000,000. This exceeds the amount of any security deposit that may have been requested.
This damage protection program ensures that hosts are covered for unexpected damages, cleaning costs, and income loss caused by guests or their pets.
Yet, bear in mind that Host Damage Protection does come with certain exclusions. It does not cover:
- Damage caused by everyday wear and tear
- Loss resulting from natural events
- Injury or property damage to guests and others
- Other exclusions stated in the policy.
Liability Insurance
Liability Insurance, which host liability insurance covers, is another crucial component of Airbnb AirCover, providing up to $1M in coverage for hosts, co-hosts, and cleaners in the event of legal responsibility for injury, property damage, or theft that may occur during a guest’s stay.
Such insurance coverage safeguards hosts from potential legal claims and financial implications due to accidents or incidents during a guest’s visit.
In the event of a claim, the insurer appointed by Airbnb will assign an adjuster to review and investigate the claim. The settlement of the claim is subject to the terms of the host liability insurance policy and all applicable laws and regulations.
How AirCover Benefits Hosts
A key benefit of Airbnb AirCover for hosts lies in its protection against unforeseen pet damage and deep cleaning costs that exceed standard cleaning fees. With this coverage, Airbnb AirCover seeks to encourage the onboarding of new hosts while maintaining the wellbeing of current ones.
Unexpected costs linked to pet damage, like smoke odor elimination or replacement of pet-damaged furniture, fall under the umbrella of Airbnb AirCover. Additionally, comprehensive coverage for deep cleaning costs is offered to hosts, ensuring that their property is well-maintained and ready for the next guest.
Pet Damage Coverage
Pet Damage Coverage compensates hosts for damages caused by guests’ pets, regardless of whether a cleaning fee is charged or the presence of pets is not allowed. Such coverage proves especially useful for hosts keen on maintaining a pet-friendly environment without the concern of possible damages.
Airbnb AirCover provides a maximum reimbursement of three million US dollars (US $3,000,000) for pet damages. This coverage includes damages such as:
- scratched upholstery
- stains
- direct physical loss or physical damage to a host’s property caused by a pet owned or controlled by a responsible guest or invitee.
Deep Cleaning Protection
Deep Cleaning Protection, another notable feature of Airbnb AirCover, covers costs of extra cleaning services needed after a guest’s stay, including professional carpet cleaning or odor removal. This coverage ensures that hosts can maintain a high level of cleanliness and guest satisfaction without incurring excessive costs.
To lodge a Deep Cleaning Protection claim with Airbnb AirCover, hosts must follow these steps:
- Document the issue using photos or videos.
- Gather repair or cleaning estimates, and/or provide receipts.
- Within 14 days of the responsible guest’s checkout, initiate a request for reimbursement via the AirCover for Hosts request in the Resolution Center.
- The guest will have 24 hours to respond to the request.
Changes in Airbnb AirCover
Replacing the Host Guarantee program, Airbnb now offers AirCover, which provides further protections like:
- Liability coverage
- Deep cleaning expenses
- Pet coverage
- Income loss protection
- A lengthened claim filing window for Airbnb claims
These changes were implemented to offer a more comprehensive protection program for hosts and to address the evolving needs and concerns of the Airbnb community, with the help of specially trained safety agents.
The Winter Release 2022 saw Airbnb introducing multiple enhancements to AirCover for hosts, encompassing guest identity verification, advanced reservation screening technology, and $3 million damage protection. These improvements have contributed to a more secure and reliable hosting experience for Airbnb hosts.
Filing a Claim with Airbnb AirCover
To file a claim with Airbnb AirCover, hosts must report any damage or excessive dirt within 14 days of a guest’s check-out and may expect to receive reimbursement within 9-11 working days. Particularly, SuperHosts stand to gain from quicker payouts, leading to a more streamlined claim process.
In the event of a claim, hosts should follow these steps:
- First, attempt to reach an agreement with the guest concerning payment for the damage.
- If the guest is unable to pay, Airbnb will step in to determine whether the host is eligible for compensation.
- Airbnb provides a fair and efficient resolution process for all parties involved.
Guest Identity Verification and Reservation Screening
Beyond offering damage protection and liability coverage, Airbnb AirCover also includes guest identity verification and reservation screening. This feature allows hosts to screen potential guests to ensure a secure booking experience and minimize the risk of property damage or other issues.
Guests are required to provide their legal name, address, and a photo of a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport, driver’s license, national ID card, or visa for identity verification.
Reservation screening is a proprietary technology developed to identify any bookings which may be linked to potential disruptive parties or property damage. It evaluates hundreds of factors before undertaking such a process, ensuring both the guest and property owner are protected.
Limitations and Exclusions of Airbnb AirCover
Despite Airbnb AirCover offering broad protection for hosts, it’s worth noting that some limitations and exclusions are in effect. For example, Airbnb AirCover does not cover:
- Damages caused by everyday wear and tear
- Loss resulting from natural events
- Injury or property damage to guests and others
- Other exclusions stated in the policy.
Airbnb AirCover does not apply to hosts in mainland China and Japan. Moreover, it is also not applicable to those who offer accommodations through Airbnb Travel LLC. Hosts in these regions or offering accommodations through Airbnb Travel LLC should consider alternative insurance options to ensure adequate protection.
Tips for Maximizing Your Airbnb AirCover Protection
To fully leverage your Airbnb AirCover protection, consider thorough guest screening, establishing clear short-term rental agreements, and supplementing Airbnb AirCover with external insurance for added coverage.
Maintaining a well-documented home inventory can also be beneficial in maximizing your Airbnb AirCover protection, as it provides evidence of the condition and value of your belongings. This documentation can be utilized to support any claims in the event of damage or theft, ensuring appropriate reimbursement for any losses.
Airbnb AirCover Reviews and Feedback
Airbnb AirCover has been generally well-received by hosts, applauding its improved security and complimentary insurance, which was upgraded in the Winter Release of 2022. The expanded protections and features of Airbnb AirCover have contributed to a more secure and reliable hosting experience for Airbnb hosts.
However, some hosts reported difficulties with the claim process and customer support. In response to these concerns, Airbnb has taken measures to review the issues and provide assistance to guests, assigning an Airbnb support ambassador to each complaint to ensure initial contact within 96 hours.
Summary
In conclusion, Airbnb AirCover provides a comprehensive protection program for hosts, addressing a wide range of potential issues, from property damage to liability claims.
With its enhanced features, such as guest identity verification and reservation screening, Airbnb AirCover ensures a more secure and reliable hosting experience for Airbnb hosts in 2023.
By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this blog post, hosts can maximize their protection and focus on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for their guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does AirCover actually cover?
AirCover provides guests with the peace of mind that they're covered in case of any unexpected issues during their stay, such as host cancellations or missing amenities.
Is AirCover the same as Airbnb?
No, AirCover is an insurance program offered by Airbnb to its accommodation hosts, and is not the same as the company itself.
What does AirCover not cover?
AirCover does not cover fine art, jewelry, currency, or weapons.
What is the maximum coverage amount for Host Damage Protection under Airbnb AirCover?
Airbnb AirCover's Host Damage Protection offers up to $3,000,000 in coverage.
Does Airbnb AirCover cover damages caused by guests' pets?
Yes, Airbnb AirCover provides coverage for damages caused by guests' pets.
