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Does travel insurance cover Airbnb?

Travel insurance can cover you if you need to cancel your Airbnb due to an unforeseen event.

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By

Cristal Dyer

&

James Martin

Updated

Fact checked

What you need to know

  • Travel insurance will cover events linked to Airbnb as long as they are included in your policy.
  • Take note of any policy exclusions that apply so that you are clued up ahead of your Airbnb booking.
  • Airbnb has announced it will launch a custom-built travel insurance product in 2022 aimed at Airbnb guests.

Does travel insurance cover Airbnb?

Generally, travel insurance covers you in an Airbnb property in the same way you would be covered if you were staying in a traditional hotel. You're generally covered for cancellation, your personal belongings and personal liability. As with any type of claim, the onus is on you to make sure you are taking reasonable precautions to ensure your safety.

Most travel insurance policies include cover for medical issues, meaning if you trip and break your ankle, you should be covered by your travel insurance.

Am I covered if I have to cancel my trip?

If your policy includes cancellation cover then typically you will be covered. Since your accommodation with Airbnb is classed as pre-booked, your travel insurance should cover you for any unused portion of your trip and reimburse you for any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, if you've experienced an insured event.

What is an insured event?

Insured events vary but generally include:

  • Serious illness to you or a family member
  • Death
  • Natural disasters
  • Your employer cancels your leave
  • Your travelling companion suffers an accident.

Is my luggage covered for theft?

If you have rented out the entire property, your travel insurance should cover you for theft or robbery because the accommodation is not classed as a public place, provided you have taken precautions to ensure the safety of your belongings.

However, if you are only renting out a room in an apartment or home, then the accommodation is considered a public place. This means that in order to have your personal belongings covered, you need to make sure they are locked away in your room.

What happens if I break something?

When you agree to the Terms of Service with Airbnb, "You also authorise Airbnb Payments to charge your credit card in the event of damage caused at an Accommodation as contemplated under 'Damage to Accommodations' below and for Security Deposits, if applicable."

If your policy provides protection for personal liability, these financial losses will be covered by this section of your policy. This means you'll be covered if you break an antique vase or spill wine on the couch.

How do I make a claim?

As with any travel insurance claim, evidence is the key. Make sure you have all of the necessary documentation to streamline the claims process.

  • Step 1. Make sure you are safe and have done everything within your power to prevent any further loss
  • Step 2. Contact the authorities if necessary
  • Step 3. Contact your insurer as soon as it's safe to do so
  • Step 4. Read your insurers claims guide
  • Step 5. Gather all relevant documentation and evidence
  • Step 6. Complete your claim form
  • Step 7. Send in your completed claim form and any and all supporting evidence

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