I thought I was safe. I had the “Rover Guarantee” badge on my profile. But when the dog I was boarding tore up my hardwood floors and then bit my roommate, Rover’s support sent me a polite email saying, “We are a platform, not an insurer,” and pointed me to a clause stating they don’t cover damage to the sitter’s own home or residents. I was left with $3,000 in damages and zero recourse.
Key Takeaways
- It is “Reimbursement,” Not Insurance: Rover/Wag guarantees are discretionary. They decide if they want to pay. They are not regulated by the State Insurance Commissioner like a real carrier.
- High Deductible: The Rover Guarantee typically has a $250 deductible that you or the owner must pay.
- Exclusions are Massive: They rarely cover damage to your property, injuries to you or your family, or long-term vet care.
- Secondary Coverage: They require you to file with your private insurance (or homeowners) first. They only pay if your insurance denies you.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Terms of Service
The trap is the marketing. They call it a “Guarantee.”
In 2026, the Terms of Service (TOS) are airtight.
Clause: “Damage to Service Provider’s Property.”
- “The Guarantee does not cover damage to the Service Provider’s (Sitter’s) property.”
If a dog pees on your sofa? You pay.
If a dog chews your doorframe? You pay.
Clause: “Injury to Service Provider.” - If the dog bites you? They do not pay your medical bills. You need health insurance.
[IMAGE: Graphic comparison: “Real Insurance Policy” vs “App Guarantee” Checklist]
The Investigation: I Read the Fine Print (2026 Edition)
I analyzed the current reimbursement contracts for the major apps.
1. Rover
- Coverage: Mainly for the Owner’s dog (Vet bills) and the Owner’s home.
- The Gap: If you are boarding dogs at your house, you are almost completely exposed regarding property damage.
- The Process: You must submit a claim within 48 hours. If you wait 3 days, they deny it.
2. Wag!
- Coverage: Similar structure. Heavy reliance on “booking via the platform.”
- The Gap: If you take the client off-app for a cash walk, the guarantee vanishes instantly.
3. Private Insurance (The Solution)
- The Fix: Buying a policy from PCI or PSA makes you the insured.
- Benefit: It covers damage to your home (if you add the endorsement) and it protects you if the app denies the claim.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Rover Guarantee | Private Insurance (e.g., PCI) |
| Regulated by Law? | No (Discretionary) | Yes |
| Deductible | ~$250 | $0 – $500 (You choose) |
| Damage to Your Home | NO | Yes (with endorsement) |
| Injuries to You | NO | No (Need Health/Work Comp) |
| Off-App Bookings | NO | Yes (It follows you) |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Buy Private Insurance: Do it today. It costs ~$20/month.
- Link the Policies: In the rare event of a claim, file with your private insurance first (as required by the app).
- Read the Exclusion List: Go to the app’s “Help” section and search “Guarantee Terms.” Look at the list of what is NOT covered. It is longer than what IS covered.
- Charge Higher Rates: Explain to clients: “I carry private, professional insurance for your safety.” This justifies a higher price than the amateur down the street relying on the app.
FAQ
If I have private insurance, do I still need to use the app?
You use the app for marketing and payment. But for liability protection, rely on your private policy.
Does the Guarantee cover theft?
If you are accused of stealing, the Guarantee reimburses the owner, but the App will then ban you and potentially sue you to recover the funds.
Why does my homeowners insurance deny me?
Because you are running a business. Standard homeowners policies exclude “business activities” conducted on the property.