||| FROM JAN SCILIPOTI |||
I just received an email from VRBO, a short term vacation rental platform, that outlines changes in WA State legislature regarding VRs. Since 2018 in San Juan County, VR permits holders are already required to do all of these items. In fact, we have additional regulations that we must follow.
Regarding the insurance that is recommended: I got three quotes before I chose my provider. It is not that much more expensive, and is not difficult to initiate. If you only rent your home for part of the year, you can switch your coverage during that time and keep your normal homeowner’s insurance during the time when you do not rent. STR insurance coverage is for your own protection – please do it for yourself.
VRBO is required by the State of Washington to notify you that…
- Your current insurance coverage may not include liability protection, defense costs or first-party coverage when your property is used for short-term rental stays.
- You are responsible for collecting and remitting all applicable local, state, and federal taxes unless the platform does this on your behalf.
- Washington law requires that you do each of the following:
- Comply with RCW 19.27.530 and applicable rules regarding installing carbon monoxide alarms.
- Post the following in a conspicuous place inside your unit:
- Your unit’s street address
- Emergency contact information for police, fire or emergency medical services (i.e. 911).
- Your unit’s floor plan with fire exits and escape routes marked
- Your unit’s maximum occupancy limit
- Your contact information or the information for your designated contact
To read more about the short-term rental bill, CLICK HERE.
**If you are reading theOrcasonian for free, thank your fellow islanders. If you would like to support theOrcasonian CLICK HERE to set your modestly-priced, voluntary subscription. Otherwise, no worries; we’re happy to share with you.**
