How Safe is Your Short-Term Rental? Expert Safety Tips with Justin Ford (Episode 433)

Safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s essential for every short-term rental. In this episode of Thanks for Visiting, international safety expert Justin Ford returns to discuss the biggest safety risks hosts often overlook and how to protect both guests and your business.

From smoke alarms and fire extinguishers to hot tub safety and bunk beds, this episode is packed with actionable insights for hosts at every level. Justin has spent over a decade advocating for vacation rental safety, and today, he’s sharing the most critical lessons from real-life incidents, upcoming regulatory changes, and how to stay ahead of safety requirements.

We’re also joined by Wendy Doris, a successful co-host, who shares how implementing Justin’s safety strategies has improved her business and given her peace of mind.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

1. The Most Overlooked Safety Risks in STRs

Many hosts assume their rentals are safe, but Justin highlights the areas most frequently missed, including:

  • Smoke alarms that aren’t interconnected or regularly tested
  • Fire extinguishers that are improperly placed or too small
  • Unsecured bunk beds and hazardous furniture placements
  • Hot tubs and pools without proper chemical maintenance or safety signage

2. Fire Safety Should Be Your Top Priority

Every rental should have functioning smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Justin stresses:

  • The importance of interconnected smoke alarms
  • Why every bedroom and hallway needs a fire extinguisher
  • How to avoid common egress issues that can trap guests in an emergency

3. Pool & Hot Tub Safety: Avoid Costly Mistakes

  • Chemical imbalances can lead to dangerous bacteria and illnesses
  • Handrails and non-slip surfaces can prevent falls
  • Regular maintenance is essential to meet safety standards

4. The Cost of Ignoring Safety

Beyond legal liability, poor safety standards can impact:

  • Guest trust and reviews
  • Property value and insurance claims
  • The broader STR industry and potential future regulations

5. How to Stay Ahead of STR Safety Regulations

Regulations around safety are tightening in many markets. Proactive hosts will:

  • Implement annual safety audits
  • Use task management software like Breezeway to ensure compliance
  • Train their teams with free safety courses

How to Ensure Your Rental Meets the Highest Safety Standards

Actionable Steps for Hosts:

  1. Check Your Smoke & CO Alarms – Ensure they’re interconnected and working.
  2. Place Fire Extinguishers in Key Areas – Every floor, kitchen, and near fireplaces.
  3. Inspect Bunk Beds & Ladders – Make sure they meet federal safety standards.
  4. Secure Hot Tubs & Pools – Use proper covers, railings, and chemical monitoring.
  5. Train Your Team – Enroll in Breezeway’s Free Safety Course (linked below).

Resources Mentioned in This Episode

Safety Essentials for Your STR:

Add This to Your Listing:

Include this Safety Section in your Airbnb or direct booking listing:

Safety: We do full safety audits of this property annually, and smoke alarms, CO alarms, pool alarms, and hot tub/pool quality are checked before each guest arrives. Our annual safety audits include fire safety, fall prevention, emergency preparedness, electrical and appliance safety, furniture and amenity safety, and pool and hot tub safety.

More from Justin Ford

Other Episodes Featuring Justin:

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

#STRShareSunday

@wonderwildstays

Escape to Foxhaven Chalet, a stunning retreat by Wonder Wild Stays in McGaheysville, Virginia. This 4-bedroom, 3-bath chalet offers golf course views, a game room, and cozy spaces for the entire family. With features like a propane firepit, hot tub, themed kid’s bunkroom, and a fully stocked kitchen, every detail has been thoughtfully designed for relaxation and fun. Just minutes from Massanutten Ski Resort, hiking trails, and Shenandoah National Park, Foxhaven Chalet is perfect for adventure and family memories. Follow @wonderwildstays for more inspiration and updates!

We would love to feature YOU! Submit your property for our next #STRShareSunday at strshare.com.

Together, Annette & Sarah are the dynamic duo behind the wildly popular podcast Thanks For Visiting, co-creators of the Hosting Business Mastery Method, & seasoned short-term-rental hosts.

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