Insurance policy launches on growing Airbnb rentals

One of Scotland’s biggest insurance brokers has launched a dedicated policy to cover Britain’s £2 billion bed and breakfast industry amid the growing popularity of online private rental marketplace Airbnb.

Edward Bruce, Chief Executive of Bruce Stevenson Insurance Brokers. Picture: Julie Bull

Bruce Stevenson has put together the “Staysafe” insurance policy, specifically designed for smaller establishments with six bedrooms or fewer available to let.

It includes accidental damage as standard, and liability for paying guests for up to £2 million with up to £40,000 for their effects. The policy not only covers B&Bs but also their owners, who receive personal accident cover for £100 a week as standard, for example.

Accidental loss or theft of money, food spoilage of up to £1,000 and goods in transit of up to £2,500 are also all covered by the policy.

Edward Bruce, chief executive at Bruce Stevenson, said: “Owners face distinct challenges when they open their homes or other premises to visitors and so that’s why it’s important for them to have tailored insurance policies to help protect them.”

He added that Airbnb grew by 73 per cent in the last year alone.