The use of short-term vacation rentals has exploded, with companies like Airbnb and Vrbo becoming a popular alternative to hotels. Unfortunately, a lack of uniform safety regulations in this booming industry has led to a tragic increase in preventable injuries and deaths. When property owners and rental platforms prioritize profits over people, guests are the ones who pay the price.
The Haggard Law Firm represents individuals and families who have suffered due to negligence during a short-term rental stay. If you were harmed by a dangerous condition or a criminal act at a vacation rental, our trial lawyers are here to fight for the justice you deserve.
The short-term rental market is projected to grow to over $315 Billion by 2033, yet it remains largely unregulated. Unlike hotels, which must adhere to strict safety and security standards, rental properties often lack basic protections. There is no overseeing body to ensure a property is safe before it’s listed.
This lack of oversight creates a dangerous environment where guests are unknowingly exposed to serious risks, including:
Determining who is responsible for an injury at an Airbnb or Vrbo can be complex. Depending on the circumstances, liability may fall on one or more parties:
The Haggard Law Firm is dedicated to investigating every aspect of your case to identify all responsible parties and hold them accountable. We are committed not only to securing justice for our clients but also to forcing industry-wide changes that will make short-term rentals safer for everyone.
Liability depends on what caused the injury. The property owner (host)is often responsible for failing to maintain a safe environment or warn of hazards. In some cases, the rental platform (like Airbnb or Vrbo) or a third-party property management company can also be held liable for their negligence. Our attorneys can investigate your specific case to determine all at-fault parties.
Due to a lack of regulation, a wide range of preventable accidents can occur. The most common cases we see involve swimming pool drownings, injuries from criminal attacks due to negligent security, slips and falls from unsafe conditions (like broken stairs or wet floors), and injuries caused by defective appliances or furniture.
Platforms like Airbnb offer host liability insurance programs (e.g., AirCover for Hosts) that may provide coverage for guest injuries. However, these policies have significant limitations and exclusions, and making a successful claim can be extremely difficult without legal help. You should never rely solely on the platform’s insurance. Consulting with an experienced attorney is the best way to ensure your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation.