[update] Airbnb Host Requesting 50k In Damages

Hi everybody! It’s been almost a year since my first post here and I finally have an update (please read post linked below for context!). I didn’t respond to a lot of comments in my initial post, but your input was greatly appreciated.

The host decided not to go through Airbnb’s air cover before Airbnb could determine liability on either side. Instead, the host is going through her own renters insurance.

Recently I received a letter in the mail from the host’s insurance stating that I owe $58,000 for water damage- it is alleging that I caused the leak in the shower and stated that they could either go through my homeowners insurance to get the money or get the money from me directly.

I responded with my own records, documenting the time that the shower broke and everything that happened afterwards.

They responded that they “understand my liability position”, but because I was on the property while the damage occurred, I now need to respond with my homeowners insurance or they will look to me for reimbursement.

My problem here is that I know I didn’t directly cause the damage, and this issue would have happened to anyone who used the shower next. The shower was already flooding and unable to turn off before the handle broke off, and the host did not communicate with me during this time to minimize damage.

I just don’t really know what to do next- are they able to sue me because I was on the property while this damage occurred? They have not directly stated this, but keep alluding to it.

Thank you for any help or opinions you may have!
Location: Nevada, USA

Previous post

EDIT: A lot of people are suggesting I just go through my own insurance first- I am a 20 year old and my mom’s name is on the homeowners insurance. She called them and they suggested we try to prove that I am not liable with the hosts insurance before going through my own insurance, because that would be “easier”. Maybe we will try our insurance anyways?