Safety First, Liability Last: Transforming your vacation rental into a secure haven for guests

This content is a part of SSTIR Crazy Month which is sponsored by Proper Insurance

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Safety in a vacation home is much more than ensuring there’s a fire extinguisher in place and the smoke alarms work.  Both of those things are important however before you let guests into your home, there are a few more things to consider.

Besides creating a positive and welcoming environment for your guests, getting on the right side of safety covers you as the owner or manager in case of claims when something goes wrong.  Airbnb will not have your back if you are negligent, and if you don’t have liability insurance you will be on the hook for paying up.

Ensuring you are not negligent in any way goes a long way to protecting your own business in the event of injuries or claims.

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Here’s just one example:

A property has a bedroom with bunk beds that have been placed against a window.  If a fire were to start in a room adjacent to this bedroom preventing exit through the bedroom door, there is no other egress as the window is not accessible.

Perform Regular safety checks

Regular maintenance is crucial for the safety and smooth operation of your rental. This includes inspecting the property for any maintenance issues like leaks, electrical problems, or structural damage. All appliances should be in good working condition to prevent accidents and ensure guest comfort. 

These checks can also identify potential problems before they become serious, saving time and money in the long run.  

Create a checklist that your maintenance person or housekeeper can follow - this should be signed and dated as evidence the checks have been carried out.  Include photos with date stamps where applicable.

Some checks should be done annually, some quarterly and others on every changeover. Mark up the check list accordingly.

In the event of a negligence claim, this attention to detail will demonstrate your commitment to safety.

Evaluate Your Properties For Fire Safety 

Where are your fire extinguishers kept?  Under the sink? In a cupboard?  Or on a wall in the kitchen, easily accessible to anyone in the event of a fire?

The reason for the question is that in the drive for the most beautiful interior shots of a short term rental, aesthetics can often override the essentials of safety.  

Installing smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors on every floor is a basic requirement. And keeping fire extinguishers accessible and ensuring that all escape routes are clearly marked and unobstructed can save lives in an emergency. Don’t forget, these devices need to be tested regularly and batteries replaced well before they fail.

Don't Forget About Pool and Water Safety

Properties with pools, hot tubs, or other water features need additional safety measures. Local ordinances will provide the criteria that is necessary for the area but regardless of what is required you will need to ensure, proper fencing is in place, along with readily available safety equipment. 

Providing guests with clear instructions for safe use of these amenities is also important for preventing accidents.  You must also provide safety rules, capacity notices and appropriate contact information near the pool or spa.

Check For General Interior Safety 

Being attentive to potential hazards can protect guests from accidents and owners from liability claims.  These hazards include loose rugs, exposed wires, sharp corners, cabinets that can tip unless anchored to the wall, the location of chemical cleaning fluids and bleach, and the use of candles. 

Outside safety is often overlooked

From the moment guests come onto the property, there is potential for liability claims. Guests have made claims for slip and fall accidents from wet leaves on wooden steps, tree stumps and fallen branches in woodland areas, and underwater hazards in lakefront locations.  Being aware of natural hazards on your property is essential and sharing the potential for risk with your guests is a way to alert them as well as to lessen your openness to negligence claims.  

Provide Clear Safety Information and Instructions

Providing clear instructions for operating appliances, heating and cooling systems, and emergency procedures should be easily accessible.  

A stenciled sign on the end of a dock saying No Diving or Jumping may not prevent guests from doing so, but it is a clear notice of your intention to prevent accidents.

Put a note in a guidebook that advises ‘We cannot prevent leaves from falling onto the steps which will become slippery when wet.  Be cautious when using the staircase and use the handrail’.

While we like to think this is common sense, the simple act of explaining potential hazards can be very helpful in the case of a liability claim. 

A digital guidebook is an excellent choice for ensuring all details are kept up to date.

Do You Have The Correct Insurance and Liability Coverage?

Adequate insurance coverage is critical for your vacation rental. It's important to understand what your policy covers, including guest accidents or property damage. This not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind for both you and your guests. Make sure to stay informed about the latest insurance options and requirements for short-term rentals in your area.

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By implementing these safety measures, vacation rental owners and managers can greatly reduce risks and enhance the overall guest experience. Remember, a safe guest is a happy guest, and happy guests are more likely to return and recommend your property to others. Moreover, prioritizing safety can help protect your property from potential liabilities and damages, ultimately contributing to the success and sustainability of your rental business.

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