HobbyRent Protection & Insurance Plan
Comprehensive equipment protection and peace of mind for every rental
Last Updated: 10/1/2026
1. Protecting the Community
Peer-to-peer equipment and powersports rentals require uncompromising trust. The HobbyRent Protection Plan is designed to protect both Equipment Owners and Renters against accidental physical damage, theft, and third-party liabilities during active rental reservations.
Up to $1,000,000 Liability
Third-party liability coverage protecting against bodily injury or third-party property damage during approved operations.
Physical Damage Protection
Coverage for accidental collision, rollover, structural frame, or component damage to rented equipment up to actual cash value.
Security Deposit Escrow
Standardized security deposit pre-authorization held in escrow and released automatically 48 hours after completed inspection.
Digital Handover Inspection
Mandatory timestamped photo/video pre-rental and post-rental inspection checklist inside the HobbyRent app.
2. How Deductibles Work
In the event of accidental damage during a rental, the Renter is responsible only up to their chosen plan deductible:
- Standard Plan: $1,000 maximum deductible for approved equipment claims.
- Premium Protection: $500 reduced deductible for high-value powersports and machinery.
- Owner Payout Guarantee: For covered damages exceeding the Renter deductible, HobbyRent or our insurance underwriting partners reimburse the Owner up to the item's verified fair market value.
3. Pre-Rental & Post-Rental Inspection Requirement
To ensure prompt claim approval and protect both parties from false damage disputes:
- Pre-Handover Walkthrough: Before keys or equipment change hands, both parties must record a 360-degree video or at least 6 high-resolution photos showing all four corners, odometer/hour meter, tires/tracks, and any pre-existing scratches or dents.
- Digital Inspection Form: Complete the digital checklist at Rentals & Handover.
- Post-Return Verification: Upon return, repeat the 360-degree inspection. Any new damage must be reported within 48 hours of the scheduled drop-off time.
4. Exclusions & Prohibited Uses
Protection Plan coverage is strictly voided if the equipment was used in violation of the Terms of Service, including:
- Operating under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or intoxicating medication.
- Organized racing, stunting, drifting, or competition.
- Operation by unauthorized drivers/operators who have not verified their identity on HobbyRent.
- Operating equipment outside permitted zones (e.g., non-street-legal ATVs on public interstate highways).
- Gross negligence, intentional damage, or failure to perform basic fluid checks.
5. Filing a Damage Claim
If damage occurs, notify HobbyRent within 48 hours of return:
Submit Claim in Dashboard
Navigate to your rental details and click "Report Damage". Attach handover photos and a detailed incident description.
Certified Repair Estimate
Provide an itemized estimate or invoice from a licensed repair facility or certified OEM dealership.
Prompt Reimbursement
Our claims team reviews evidence within 3–5 business days and processes reimbursement directly through Stripe Connect.