Airbnb Laws and Regulations in Iowa- What Hosts Need to Know

Des Moines, Iowa

Updates Insurance Requirements for Short-Term Rental Hosts

Des Moines is a major city that has updated their Airbnb laws and regulations. They are now requiring hosts to secure liability insurance at a minimum of $500,000. “Such coverage shall defend and indemnify the owner, any named additional insured, and any tenants in the building for their bodily injury and property damage arising from the short-term rental use.” The city also updated all licensing and registration fees, permits and zoning, and exterior and interior requirements.

The following regulations are in place:

• Safety: All sidewalks, walkways, stairs, driveways, parking spaces, and similar areas shall be kept in a proper state of repair and maintained free from hazardous conditions. 
• Maintenance: Every handrail and guard shall be firmly fastened, returned to the wall and capable of supporting normally imposed loads, and shall be maintained in good condition. 
• Outside Maintenance: Premises and exterior property, including fence lines, shall be maintained free from weeds or plant growth in excess of 12 inches, and all noxious weeds shall be prohibited.  
• Infestation: All structures and exterior property shall be kept free from rodent harborage and infestation.  
• Structural Upkeep: All accessory structures, including detached garages, sheds, fences, and walls, shall be structurally sound and in good condition. Structures shall be only used for tenant occupant use. 
• Other: No inoperative or unlicensed motor vehicle shall be parked, kept, or stored on the property.  
• The rest of the updated laws and regulations on an inspection checklist can be found here.