How to keep your Airbnb’s safe and avoid guest accidents (Ep 574)
Summary
This podcast episode discusses safety protocols for short-term rentals, highlighting potential hazards and the importance of preventative measures. Hosts are encouraged to assess their properties for safety risks and implement solutions like signage and safety devices to prevent accidents and mitigate potential legal issues. The episode also shares extreme examples of host liability.
Key Insights
- •The largest settlement on a short-term rental lawsuit to a host for an accident was $11.6 million, and Airbnb didn't cover it.
- •A deck collapse due to a hot tub caused injury to a guest and highlights the importance of safety inspections.
Action Items
- ✓Implement clear and visible signage, including emergency information like the address and emergency numbers, pool rules, and shallow water warnings.Effort: lowImpact: high
- ✓Ensure you have essential safety devices such as smoke detectors, CO detectors, and fire extinguishers installed and readily accessible in your rental properties.Effort: lowImpact: high
- ✓Evaluate your property for potential trip hazards such as area rugs and curling edges, and implement solutions like rug grippers.Effort: lowImpact: medium
Common Mistakes
- ⚠A common mistake is placing fire extinguishers under the sink without signage, which hinders easy access during a fire. Place fire extinguishers with a signage near an exit.
More from Hosting Operations
An Airbnb guest was accused of damaging property and received a payment request with blurry photo evidence, highlighting potential issues with host-guest disputes. This emphasizes the importance of clear communication, proper documentation, and understanding Airbnb's resolution process for handling damage claims. Hosts should have strategies in place to protect themselves against unfair claims.
Airlines canceled over 7,000 flights due to a major blizzard hitting the Northeast, impacting 54 million people. Heavy snow and high winds are expected overnight, causing significant travel disruptions. Hosts should be aware of potential guest cancellations and adjust their strategies accordingly. Consider offering flexible cancellation policies.
RENTAL12's properties have received Booking.com's Traveller Review Awards for 2026, a significant achievement reflecting high guest satisfaction. The company also celebrates its fourth year as an Airbnb Superhost. These awards highlight the importance of consistent guest experience and platform performance in the competitive STR market.
Curated by Learn STR by GoStudioM