Sniffspot is an innovative platform designed to provide private and secure spaces for dogs to play and explore. It’s an app-based service that connects dog owners with local hosts who offer their private lands, yards or specialized areas for dog playdates, training sessions or just some off-leash exploration: Think of it as AirBnB for dogs.
Sniffspot fills a significant gap in urban and suburban areas where open, secure spaces are scarce. How does Sniffspot address potential mishaps or damage during visits? In the following sections, we delve into the protective measures Sniffspot offers its hosts, exploring the intricacies of its insurance coverages and assessing whether this platform suits homeowners looking to generate passive income through their property.
Host liability insurance
Homeowners who rent their private lands and backyards via Sniffspot are called hosts. In a move to support hosts, Sniffspot provides them with complimentary host liability insurance. This insurance—created in partnership with an unknown insurance carrier—covers up to $2 million ($1 million per occurrence) for injuries to dogs, people and property damage during a Sniffspot booking. This comprehensive coverage is available for hosts across the United States, its territories, Puerto Rico and Canada.
Sniffspot Damage Protection Guarantee
Sniffspot provides a Damage Protection Guarantee, designed to protect hosts from any property damage caused by guests during a booking. This assurance promises compensation for property damage, up to a maximum of $5,000—excluding normal wear and tear. Should any property damage occur, hosts must document any damage with photographs, and retain receipts or other proof of purchase to ascertain the fair market value of affected items.
To initiate a claim, hosts are required to submit a comprehensive report along with a compensation request to Sniffspot, all within a 10-day window following the incident. This guarantee ensures peace of mind for Sniffspot hosts, allowing them to welcome guests without concern over potential damage
Guest waiver and release
Before securing a reservation with Sniffspot, guests are required to agree to a Release and Waiver agreement. This document meticulously details the liability terms concerning potential injuries and property damage incurred while enjoying a Sniffspot on the host’s land. Designed for individuals 18 years and older, it assigns all risk involved with using a Sniffspot—be it personal injury, sickness, damage or even death of a guest or their pet, including stemming from negligence or the premises’ conditions, squarely to the guests. The agreement clarifies that hosts bear no responsibility for the safety of guests and their pets during their stay—effectively shielding hosts from any liability related issues.
Additionally, it requires that guests consciously affirm they evaluated their and their dogs’ readiness for Sniffspot activities, abide by safety protocols and refrain from engaging in activities under unsafe conditions. Lastly, the waiver included a comprehensive liability release clause, absolving hosts from legal claims connected with Sniffspot’s use.
A fetching opportunity
For dog owners and homeowners alike, becoming a Sniffspot host can present a lucrative opportunity to generate passive income, while providing a secure, explorative experience for dogs and dog owners.
However, it’s crucial for insurance agents to consult with their clients to ensure that their property remains protected under all circumstances. This proactive step, along with the robust protections Sniffspot offers, will ensure that your clients and their homes are protected.
Theophilus Alexander
Theophilus W. Alexander joined PIA Northeast as a government & industry affairs specialist for the Government & Industry Affairs Department in 2023. Prior to joining PIA, Theo had served in both houses of the New York State Legislature. Previously, he worked as a legislative analyst for Hon. New York State Sen. Samra G. Brouk, D-55, and he served at the New York State Assembly, as a policy analyst with New York Assembly Program & Counsel. Theo received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Politics from Ithaca College in Ithaca, N.Y.
