Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Offers Consumer Tips As U.S. Open and Democratic National Convention May Spur Airbnb Use This Summer

HARRISBURG, Pa., May 17, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Insurance Commissioner Teresa Miller is offering important consumer tips for both guests and hosts of home sharing sites like Airbnb, as use of these sites may rise in Pennsylvania with the state hosting two major national events, the U.S. Open Golf Tournament and the Democratic National Convention, this summer.

"With thousands of visitors from around the world coming to Pennsylvania for these two major events, homeowners may find an opportunity to rent their homes and attendees may need a place to stay as hotel rooms will fill quickly, leading to much greater use of sites such as Airbnb," Commissioner Miller said.  "While these are great ways for people to make extra money or find a room if hotels are full, both hosts and guests should keep important insurance considerations in mind when using Airbnb or similar sites."

The U.S. Open Golf Tournament will be played at Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont, near Pittsburgh, from June 13-19.  The Democratic National Convention will be in Philadelphia from July 25-28.  Visitors for these events will be in addition to the many thousands who come to Pennsylvania each summer, for events such as Philadelphia's 4^th of July celebration, to enjoy the state's great outdoor areas for activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating, as well as to visit historic sites such as Gettysburg.  Erie County's Presque Isle State Park, which attracts up to 4 million visitors annually, in March was voted the country's best freshwater beach in a contest sponsored by USA Today.

The Insurance Department offers these suggestions for homeowners considering renting their homes through Airbnb or another online home sharing site:

• Airbnb provides host protection liability insurance with coverage up to $1 million, but there are exclusions on the policy.  Airbnb also provides host coverage for up to $1 million in damages, again with certain conditions.  Hosts should review the policy and contact Airbnb directly to find out what is covered and what is not.  If using a site other than Airbnb, contact the company and ask about any liability insurance protection offered.
• Most homeowners policies make exclusions for any commercial activity taking place on the property.  You may need a separate policy to cover short-term rental activity.
• Contact your insurance professional or company before renting your home, to discuss your plans and how they may impact your coverage.
• Consider asking your guests to show proof of renters insurance before booking, to help protect their possessions when in your home. 
• If an incident occurs, take photos to document any damages.

For guests, the Insurance Department has these suggestions:

• Consider travel insurance.  This may be an affordable option to protect you in case of an injury or emergency.
• Check your renters or homeowners policy to see whether it covers your possessions when you are traveling.
• Talk to the host before booking, to learn what coverage they have for their home and possessions, and what liability coverage they have if you are injured on their property.
• If an incident occurs, take photos to document any damages.

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners has additional tips for consumers considering using home sharing services.

"Home sharing services can provide another option for guests who prefer homes to hotels, or who can't find a room when popular events sell out well in advance, and can offer additional income for homeowners," Commissioner Miller said.  "However, these services often fall outside traditional coverage for homeowners or renters, and without proper insurance, an incident can turn an exciting trip into an expensive headache."

MEDIA CONTACT: Ron Ruman, 717-787-3289

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Insurance