Airbnb has become the staple in any traveler’s arsenal, allowing explorers near and far to stay in incredible, one-of-a-kind locations for an incredibly fair price. Hosts, the people choosing to list their homes for rent on the site, also benefit significantly by getting extra income after each and every stay. According to this Airbnb guide, Florida hosts made $450 million in total earnings in 2017 alone; that’s nearly $6,700 per host.
While Airbnb has opened the door to many opportunities, it also has brought the topic of liability, safety, and legality to the forefront. Recently, Airbnb made headlines when a Miami native flew to an Airbnb in Costa Rica for her birthday - and never made it back. Before you book your next Airbnb or host your next guest in Florida, consider the following:
- Airbnb does not conduct background checks on every person
- The company states they “may” obtain a background check for a member, but do not confirm. In fact, the company admits they only check public databases.
- You waive your right to sue Airbnb
- When registering for the site, you waive your right to hold Airbnb accountable
- The “Host Guarantee” Program is not considered insurance
- Despite its claim to reimburse hosts for damages up to $1 million, it will not replace insurance.
Aibnb has given travelers and hosts many opportunities to explore, but it’s also important to consider liability, safety, and legal issues before your next trip. Stay safe this holiday season by brushing up on the fine print for Aibnbs in Florida!
