Out-of-State Guests Staying with You? Here’s What You Need to Know About Home Insurance

When summer rolls around, many Arizonans open their doors to friends and family visiting from out of state. Whether you’re hosting a full house for the holidays or just have the in-laws in town for a few nights, there’s one thing many homeowners overlook: how does your home insurance protect you when guests are under your roof?

At VIP Insurance Professionals, we want to make sure you’re covered not just for the big things, but for everyday life—even when that means sharing your space.

1. You’re Still Covered—But There Are Limits
Standard homeowners insurance typically includes liability protection. This means if your out-of-state guest slips on your tile floor or takes a tumble on the back patio, your policy could help cover their medical bills or legal costs if they decide to pursue legal action.

But here’s the kicker: policies have limits. If you’re unsure whether your liability limits are high enough for peace of mind, now is the time to review your policy. Hosting more guests increases your exposure, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the layout or environment.

2. Does Your Guest Bring Risk With Them?
It’s not uncommon for guests to bring pets, children, or even recreational gear like e-bikes or scooters. If someone else’s pet injures a neighbor or causes damage to your property, your policy might not cover it.

Likewise, if your guest uses your pool, trampoline, or outdoor equipment and gets injured, you could be liable. These fun backyard items are often classified as “attractive nuisances” in insurance terms and may require additional coverage.

3. What if Your Guest Damages Something?
Let’s say your guest spills red wine on your carpet, burns a hole in your outdoor cushion, or accidentally breaks a window. Most homeowners policies won’t cover accidental damage caused by guests unless the damage falls under a covered peril (like fire or vandalism). This is where umbrella insurance or additional personal property protection can come in handy.

4. Short-Term Rentals or Frequent Hosting? That’s a Different Story
If you host guests often or use platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo to offer short-term stays, your homeowners insurance might not cover these scenarios. These are considered business activities and generally require a landlord or short-term rental insurance policy to be fully protected.

5. Talk to Your Agent Before Hosting
A quick phone call to your insurance agent can ensure you’re properly protected before your guests even roll into town. Updating your liability limits, discussing coverage gaps, or even scheduling additional protections for high-risk activities can give you peace of mind.