Houfy Host Protection & Damage Deposits Explained

At Houfy, hosts have two key options to protect their properties from guest-related damages:

1. Damage Deposits: Hosts can set damage deposit requirements directly in their listings to secure against potential damages. Simply go to: Edit Listing > Pricing > Rates & Fees, then open the Damage Protection section and click the Damage Deposit card This upfront deposit ensures you're covered for smaller incidents during a guest’s stay.

2. HoufyProtect (Powered by Truvi): HoufyProtect offers a hassle-free insurance solution for both hosts and guests. It simplifies the protection process, eliminating the need for traditional deposits and offering broader coverage. Learn more on our HoufyProtect information page.

Important: houfyProtect is chosen when the booking is made - the fee is added to the guest quote at that point. If a booking was made without houfyProtect, it cannot be added afterwards.

If the booking already includes houfyProtect but the fee was never collected - for example the guest paid by cheque or outside Houfy - you can still collect it. Open the reservation and look under Price details: you will see No houfyProtect added to this booking with a Send payment link button beside it. That generates a payment link you can copy, or send to the guest as a message. The booking has to be confirmed for the button to appear.

Additional Protection for Hosts: Hosts should also review their homeowner’s insurance policy to confirm it includes coverage for short-term rental activity and personal liability. Consider specialized short-term rental insurance for full protection.

Protection for Guests: Guests can purchase travel insurance policies from providers such as InsureMyTrip or Generali Global Assistance to cover cancellations, damages, and emergencies during their stay.