Beware the Hidden Dangers of Vacation Rentals: What Maine Visitors and Property Owners Need to Know
As Maine continues to grow in popularity as a vacation destination, thousands of out-of-state visitors flock to its coastlines, forests, lakes, and small towns each summer. Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and similar vacation rental services have made it easier than ever for travelers to book unique and local accommodations. While most vacations go off without a hitch, the rise in short-term rentals has also led to a rise in injuries caused by unsafe or poorly maintained properties.
At Peter Thompson & Associates, we’ve seen a notable increase in cases involving personal injuries that occurred in vacation rentals—ranging from serious falls on unstable staircases to carbon monoxide poisoning and even dog bites from animals left unsupervised by the property owner. These are not simply unfortunate accidents; many are the result of negligence that could have—and should have—been prevented.
Here’s what both visitors and property owners need to know about this emerging legal issue, and how to stay safe.
The Rise of Vacation Rentals in Maine
From Bar Harbor to Bethel, Maine has seen explosive growth in the vacation rental market. As traditional hotels and motels fill up during peak seasons, many travelers turn to platforms like Airbnb for more affordable, private, or scenic lodging options. However, these properties are not subject to the same safety inspections and regulatory oversight as hotels.
While hotels must comply with state fire codes, accessibility requirements, and routine health inspections, vacation rental owners often operate with little or no external scrutiny. This creates a legal gray area—one where a lack of standards can put unsuspecting guests in harm’s way.
Common Hazards in Short-Term Rentals
Through our experience representing injured clients, we’ve identified several common hazards associated with short-term vacation rentals in Maine:
- Unsafe Stairways and Decks: Many of Maine’s older homes feature steep, narrow staircases or aging decks that are not up to modern building codes. Inadequate railings, rotting wood, and poor lighting can all lead to devastating falls.
- Fire Safety Violations: Missing smoke detectors, inaccessible fire extinguishers, or blocked egress routes are alarmingly common. Some properties even lack a basic fire escape plan.
- Slip and Fall Accidents: Wet floors, loose rugs, icy walkways, or cluttered hallways can turn a relaxing getaway into an ER visit.
- Exposure to Toxic Substances: Mold, carbon monoxide, lead paint, and other harmful substances have been reported in Maine rentals. In one case, a guest was hospitalized due to carbon monoxide poisoning from an improperly vented fireplace.
- Unsecured Pools or Hot Tubs: Vacation rentals with water features often lack proper fencing, covers, or signage. This can pose a fatal danger to children or non-swimmers.
- Dog Bites and Animal Attacks: While many rentals are pet-friendly, some hosts leave pets on the premises without warning guests. Unfamiliar or aggressive dogs can quickly become a liability.
Who’s Liable in a Vacation Rental Injury?
Liability in vacation rental injury cases depends on several factors. In general, property owners have a legal duty to maintain a reasonably safe environment for guests. If a renter is injured due to a hazardous condition that the host knew—or should have known—about, the owner may be held liable.
In some situations, platforms like Airbnb may also be partially responsible, especially if they failed to act on known complaints or advertised a property with misleading safety claims.
These cases often require in-depth investigation and expert testimony. That’s where we come in.
What to Do If You’re Injured in a Rental Property
If you or a loved one is injured while staying at a vacation rental in Maine, follow these steps:
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately: Your health comes first. Prompt documentation can also support your legal case.
- Report the Incident: Notify the host and the rental platform as soon as possible. If applicable, file a report with local authorities.
- Document Everything: Take photographs of the hazard, gather witness statements, and keep copies of all correspondence.
- Contact an Attorney: Speak with a personal injury lawyer experienced in premises liability cases. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we offer free consultations to evaluate your options.
Helping Visitors and Residents Alike
Whether you’re a Maine resident injured while cleaning or maintaining your own short-term rental or a visitor whose vacation was cut short due to negligence, you have rights. Our legal team at Peter Thompson & Associates is here to make sure those rights are protected.
We’ve handled a wide range of premises liability cases and have recovered millions of dollars for clients injured due to unsafe conditions. We understand how to negotiate with insurance companies, navigate complex liability issues, and fight for full and fair compensation.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a vacation rental, don’t assume it was just “bad luck.” You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. Call Peter Thompson & Associates at 207-874-0909 to schedule a free, confidential case review.
Let us help you hold negligent property owners accountable—and get your life back on track.