The Hudson Valley has become one of the most popular getaway spots in New York, drawing visitors from near and far to its hiking trails, farm-to-table dining, and cozy retreats. If you own a home in the region, you may be considering listing it on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo to take advantage of this demand. But before welcoming guests, it’s important to ask: Does your insurance policy cover short-term rentals?
Why Standard Homeowners Insurance Isn’t Enough
Many homeowners assume their regular insurance policy will cover them if they rent their home for a weekend or even a few weeks. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Standard homeowners policies are designed to protect you when you live in the home yourself, not when you’re operating it as a rental business.
Once money is exchanged, the property is considered a short-term rental, which creates new risks that may not be covered. This can include damage caused by guests, liability if a renter gets injured, or even loss of income if you can’t rent due to damage.
What Coverage Do You Need for Short-Term Rentals?
To make sure you’re fully protected, you’ll want to look at options like:
- Endorsements or Riders: Some insurance companies offer an add-on to your existing policy to extend coverage for short-term rentals.
- Landlord or Business Policies: If you’re renting frequently, you may need a more robust policy that treats your rental activity as a business.
- Platform Protections: Airbnb and Vrbo offer host guarantees, but these have limits and exclusions. They should be viewed as supplemental, not primary insurance.
Every situation is unique, and the type of coverage you need depends on how often and how long you rent your property.
Why It Matters in the Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley’s popularity means homes are in high demand, but it also means higher traffic and potentially greater risk. Whether it’s a guest accidentally damaging your property or someone slipping on your porch in winter, being underinsured could leave you paying out of pocket for costly claims.
At Metzwood, we’ve helped many homeowners in the Hudson Valley navigate these questions. We’ll review your current coverage, explain what’s included (and what’s not), and help you find the right protection so you can rent confidently and safely. Contact Metzwood Insurance today to review your policy and ensure you’re fully covered before your first guest checks in.
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