Insurance Requirements: Cambridge vs Somerville
How do insurance requirements rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Somerville, MA?
Cambridge and Somerville have similar restriction levels.
Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Massachusetts law requires STR operators to carry at least 1 million dollars in liability insurance covering each rental, either directly or through the hosting platform.
View full Cambridge rules βSomerville, MA
Middlesex County
MGL c.64G s.14 requires Somerville STR operators to carry at least $1 million in liability insurance per stay, either directly or through platform-provided coverage.
View full Somerville rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Coverage | 1 million dollars | - |
| Statute | MGL c.64G s.14 | - |
| Platform Coverage | Acceptable if equivalent | AirCover or Vrbo acceptable |
| Homeowner Policy | Usually excludes STR | Usually excludes STR |
| Proof | Required at registration | Required at registration |
| State Minimum | - | $1M per stay MGL c.64G s.14 |
| Contact | - | Somerville 311 or (617) 625-6600 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Cambridge FAQ
Does Airbnb coverage satisfy the rule?
Yes, Airbnb AirCover providing 1 million in host liability meets the MA statutory requirement.
Is my homeowner policy enough?
Usually no, most exclude commercial rental activity and require a separate endorsement or commercial policy.
Somerville FAQ
Is Airbnb AirCover enough for Somerville STRs?
AirCover provides $1M host liability which meets the state minimum for Airbnb-booked stays. For direct bookings or Vrbo, confirm equivalent coverage or purchase a commercial STR policy.
Will my homeowner insurance cover STR claims?
Usually not. Most policies exclude commercial activity. Add an STR endorsement or purchase a dedicated short-term rental policy to ensure coverage.
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