The website is part of a growing shared economy, alongside Uber.

Airbnb logo

Home insurance policies may be voided if owners allow tourists stay in their homes through shared economy site Airbnb, Pen Underwriting claim.

The website, which allows users to offer their homes up to tourists for prices lower than that of a hotel, claims that a guaranteed ‘peace of mind’ payment of £600,000 will be made to any homeowner in the event of damage caused by a visitor.

However, this does not act as insurance, and Pen Underwriting have warned that home insurance policies may not be paid out in these cases.

Pen Underwriting head of eMGA Andy Westby said: “”Many people rent out their home through Airbnb without fully realising the insurance implications. Home insurance policies are not normally designed to accommodate tenants, even short-term rentals.”

The warning comes as Pen look to develop a new product that meets the needs of short-term landlords offering their property on the website.

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.