Safety Checklist Every Host Should Follow
The minimum safety bar for hosting strangers in your space. None of this is legal advice — it's the baseline that keeps you insurable and your guests safe.
Most event-hosting incidents are preventable. A few checks before every booking and you'll clear 95% of what actually goes wrong. Run this checklist the day before — not the morning of.
Fire + evacuation
- Smoke alarms tested (press the button, hold 3 seconds — if no beep, replace).
- Carbon monoxide detector installed and tested if you have gas appliances.
- Fire extinguisher in the kitchen, within 3 feet of the stove.
- Exit routes unobstructed — no stacked chairs, decor, or bags blocking doorways.
- Posted escape route diagram (even a hand-drawn one) near the main entrance.
Capacity + crowd
Your listing has a capacity number. Hold to it. If the booking is for 40 and 55 people show up, that's a legitimate reason to cancel on the spot — politely, but firmly. Overcapacity is the #1 reason a safe event becomes unsafe.
Cooking + open flame
- •If you allow cooking, have a lid big enough to cover the largest pan (cheapest kitchen fire suppressor).
- •No candles without a host sign-off and written rule — open flame + decorations + drinks is the worst combination.
- •Gas stove? Make sure guests know how to turn off at the valve, not just the knob.
Kids + pets
If children under 5 will attend, sweep the space for anything at toddler height: sharp corners, electrical outlets, cleaning products under sinks. Your insurance probably expects you to have basic childproofing if you advertise kid-friendly. Cover the outlets, lock the under-sink cabinets.
Insurance + documentation
Check your homeowners/renters policy. Most don't cover paid event hosting by default — you'll need a commercial short-term rental rider or a standalone host insurance product. Get it before your first booking, not after your first incident. Document by taking dated photos of the space the morning of every booking.