Bellevue, WA Short-Term Rentals: Insurance Requirements (2026)

Under LUC 20.20.800, every short-term rental operator in Bellevue must maintain liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 per occurrence covering injuries and property damage arising from the use of the dwelling for transient stays. The insurance can be carried directly by the operator through a dedicated short-term rental policy or commercial liability rider, or it can be provided by the hosting platform. Airbnb AirCover for Hosts (primary liability coverage up to $1 million) and VRBO Liability Insurance (up to $1 million) are generally recognized as satisfying the requirement, provided the operator lists exclusively on a platform offering this coverage. Operators should verify that standard homeowner policies do not typically cover commercial short-term rental activity and may be voided if used for STRs without a commercial rider. Bellevue may require proof of insurance as part of Registration Notice submission and renewal. The city may also require the operator to provide certificate of insurance upon complaint or for verification.