During the pandemic, we saw many small farm owners pivot to alternative revenue streams such as farm hosting. Popular apps like Airbnb made it easy to attract guests looking to escape the city during a time when overseas travel had ground to a halt.
A shift towards a more sustainable and slower lifestyle, has meant there is increasing interest in regional travel and agritourism. This presents an attractive opportunity for small and hobby farm owners to branch out into farm hosting.
With any on farm activities, it’s important to recognise that not everyone’s ‘common sense’ is the same as yours. Especially if they are not used to a farming environment.
Safeguarding Against Accidents
Accidents can happen at any time, and when you’re hosting guests on your farm, the risk increases. Liability insurance provides coverage in the event that while staying or visiting your property, a guest suffers an injury or your animal decides to use their car as a scratching post. Whether it’s a slip and fall, an allergic reaction, or ending up somewhere a guest shouldn’t be, liability insurance helps protect you from hefty legal fees and compensation you may have to pay if you were found legally liable for the event.
Mitigating Legal Expenses
Even if you think an accident or incident on your farm hosting activities is not your fault, you may still be found legally liable. Legal battles can be costly, time-consuming, and emotionally draining. Liability insurance can help cover the legal expenses associated with defending yourself in court, including attorney fees, court costs, and settlements. By having liability insurance, you can focus on providing a welcoming farm stay with a positive experience for your visitors without the fear of a potentially devastating lawsuit hanging over your head.
Enhancing Your Reputation
In today’s interconnected world, news travels fast. If an accident occurs during a guests’ farm stay and it becomes public knowledge, your reputation as a responsible and safe host could be at stake. Liability insurance not only provides financial protection but also demonstrates to your guests, community, and potential customers that you take their safety seriously. By being proactive and obtaining liability insurance, you signal your commitment to maintaining a safe and secure environment for everyone who visits your farm.
Adapting to Evolving Regulations
As the popularity of farm stays continues to grow, government regulations and requirements may become more stringent. Liability insurance may be a mandatory prerequisite for obtaining permits or licences to host certain events or activities on your farm. By proactively acquiring liability coverage, you ensure compliance with regulations, thereby avoiding potential penalties and maintaining your ability to offer a diverse range of farm-based experiences.
Liability insurance provides a crucial safety net, protecting you from the legal liability to pay for personal injury, property damage, and unforeseen legal expenses. Moreover, it helps to maintain your reputation as a responsible and trustworthy host. By investing in liability insurance, you can focus on creating memorable experiences for your visitors while having the peace of mind that your farm and livelihood are adequately protected.
To learn more about liability insurance for your farm hosting activities, visit www.farmstyleinsurance.com.au
This article is written by Ag Guard Pty Ltd t/a Farmstyle Insurance ABN 42 168 502 645 AFSL 480716 (Farmstyle Insurance, we, us, or our). Any advice provided in this article is general advice only and does not take into account your individual needs, objectives or financial situation.