Richmond, VA Short-Term Rentals: Insurance Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Minimum coverage
- 500,000 dollars
- Platform coverage
- Accepted
- Proof
- Permit application
- Contact
- Richmond (804) 646-5700
Summary
Richmond STR operators must carry at least 500,000 dollars in liability insurance covering STR use, or use a platform (Airbnb AirCover, Vrbo Liability Insurance) providing equivalent coverage. Proof required with permit application.
Safety Requirements: Smoke detectors shall be present in compliance with the current edition of the Virginia Residential Construction Code. A fire extinguisher shall be present and be accessible at all times. Carbon monoxide detectors shall be present in any room used for sleeping or cooking. Parking: No additional parking is required for the short-term rental use. Events: Events and gatherings of persons other than the authorized lodgers are prohibited from occurring at the short-term rental.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Standard homeowners policies typically exclude commercial STR use. Operators should obtain an STR endorsement or dedicated policy. Permit renewal requires updated certificate of insurance. Contact Richmond at (804) 646-5700 for enforcement. This insurance requirements rule under Richmond's short term rentals ordinances applies to properties within Richmond city limits. For current statutory text, amendments, enforcement procedures, fines, appeal options, and any exemptions that may apply to your situation, contact Richmond code enforcement directly or consult the official Virginia municipal code library. Ordinances change periodically; always verify with local staff before relying on summary information.
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Richmond
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