Airbnb Aircover – Everything You Need to Know

If you’re thinking of getting started as a host with Airbnb, but you’re worried about accidents or your home being damaged by strangers, don’t stress. Airbnb has a program called ‘Airbnb Aircover,’ where hosts are covered for up to a certain amount for any damages that occur as a result of a guest. This method of hosting insurance is great for both established and new hosts. Let’s break it down to see what Aircover actually is and how hosts can benefit. 

What is Airbnb Aircover? 

The Airbnb Aircover program is, essentially, free supplemental insurance for hosts and their listings. In fact, Airbnb provides up to $1,000,000 in protection for every single listing, no matter what country. You never want to see your room, apartment, or house ruined by guests, but it does happen. This is why the Aircover program is such a great initiative. But it definitely isn’t perfect. Before you get too excited, it’s important to read the fine print.

What Does Aircover Cover? 

In short, Aircover can cover any damage a guest does to a host’s property, home, apartment or room, and also possessions. While it’s mostly universal, mainland China and Japan are the exceptions. Still, both locations are covered by their own programs. Basically, if there’s no security deposit or any damages that exceed the guests’ security deposit, the costs could still be covered by Aircover. And the best part is that you have 14 days to submit the claim 

If you decide to file for an Aircover claim, this doesn’t automatically excuse the guest from any financial liability if Airbnb concludes the damages were the fault of the guest. Aircover also comes with $1,000,000 in liability protection if you or an employee are found legally responsible.

Aircover: What Isn’t Covered? 

The list of what isn’t protected is arguably longer than what is covered. But seeing as this is a free program, it’s nice to have a little extra protection. Things that aren’t covered by Aircover include personal injury, damage claims from third parties, damage to common areas that aren’t part of the listing itself (shared kitchen, bathroom, etc), and cash or securities theft. However, these last two are typically covered by the host’s liability insurance. Normal wear and tear from regular use are not covered, as that should be considered as a cost of running your Airbnb. 

Airbnb warns that items such as antiques & collectibles, artwork, jewelry, and some furniture have more limited protection under this program. If you would like to protect these items, you may want to purchase extra insurance. Or if possible, store them away when a guest is present. Remember that Aircover isn’t meant to be your primary insurance, but more accurately, supplementary protection for hosts.

Dealing with Property Damage

If your property is damaged by a guest, the first step is to take a deep breath and stay calm. Ask the guest for the incident’s details and try to resolve any damages with them first. If they’re unwilling or unable to pay, then Airbnb’s Aircover Program is here to help. Make sure to take pictures and keep receipts, since any proof of damages will need to be provided as evidence of your claim so you can be compensated correctly. 

If you go through the correct process and file a claim that doesn’t include unprotected items or damages, Airbnb should have your back. Remember to carefully review the official Aircover policy and keep a cool head when you chat with their customer support team—they’re there to help.

As a reminder, Aircover is not an actual insurance policy that protects the asset of your home. It’s simply there as a lifeline for hosts when things don’t go as planned. Consider purchasing extra insurance, which is often a great investment in the long run. Don’t let nightmare guests deter you from trying your hand at hosting. Aircover is a great way to minimize your risk as an Airbnb host.