If you get hurt at a vacation rental arranged by a company like Airbnb or VRBO, it can be confusing to figure out who’s at fault and what you can do about it. The company you booked through does not have as much control over the property as a hotel franchisor would, but they charge a commission and they have standards, so do these companies have responsibility for the safety of guests? And how do you seek recovery from the property owner?

An experienced Florida personal injury lawyer can help you pursue your best options for compensation after injuries on an Airbnb or VRBO property. Here are some factors to consider.

Host Protection Insurance Coverage

Airbnb and VRBO typically both offer a host liability insurance policy to the people who serve as hosts for vacation rentals through their websites. Policies through both companies usually provide $1 million in coverage if a host is found to be responsible for personal injuries or property damage suffered by a guest. Co-hosts and cleaners are also usually covered by these plans.

These policies can protect you as a guest on properties you rent through Airbnb or VRBO. There are numerous exclusions; however, so be aware that not all incidents and injuries may be compensated for under these policies.

Premises Liability

Whether you pursue damages through host insurance, homeowner’s insurance, or from the rental company directly, you would need to prove that the host or someone under their control knew or should have known, and allowed, a dangerous condition to exist on the premises that caused your injury. Someone inviting others onto their property for a profit owes a duty to reasonably protect the invited individuals from harm. This includes a duty to inspect for dangerous conditions and take actions to remedy the problem or warn guests of the danger.

Those in control of the premises may be held responsible for slip and fall and other injuries caused by problems such as:

• Broken steps or handrails
• Loose carpet
• Exposed nails
• Insufficient lighting
• Faulty appliances
• Uneven flooring or pavement
• Slick flooring or spills left by cleaners

Guests have also been injured by faulty electrical systems that cause fires, and a host of factors resulting from improper maintenance and lack of proper inspections.

Talk to Zweben Law Group if You Suffered Injuries in an Airbnb, VRBO, or other Rental Property

If you’ve been hurt because someone else failed to act responsibly, you deserve to receive compensation for your losses, plain and simple. This includes your pain and emotional anguish. At Zweben Law Group, we understand the process can be confusing and dealing with insurance companies can be discouraging.

Let us help. We understand how to demonstrate the causes of your injuries and how to work to get full and fair compensation to help you move forward. Contact us for a free consultation and case evaluation today.