What Does Renters Insurance Cover? More Than Just Your Stuff 

Imagine you just moved into a new rental, and you’re enjoying your new home, when suddenly a fire breaks out. You get out unharmed, but most of your personal property is destroyed. This alone is a tragic occurrence, but without renters insurance, things are much worse. What does renters insurance cover, you may wonder. This is an important question to answer. 

This post will outline just what renters insurance coverage will entail, the different types of plans you can purchase, and the benefits of purchasing a plan. 

What Does Renters Insurance Cover? 

Renters insurance protection covers you when unexpected events occur. These unexpected happenings are referred to as covered perils and will be outlined in your policy. You never know when an emergency, such as a fire, theft, storm damage, or a visitor’s injury, will occur. This is why having an affordable renters insurance plan is beneficial. 

This type of plan covers three main areas that could cause financial loss. These include personal property loss, personal liability (including medical payments), and additional living expenses. 

Personal Property Protection: Safeguarding Your Belongings 

Your personal property protection from renters insurance comes in handy, safeguarding your belongings when an emergency occurs. When you have a policy, it will replace items damaged in a covered peril, up to policy limits. 

This would include things like your furniture, electronics, clothing, sporting equipment and other miscellaneous items. Some belongings may not be covered. So, it’s best to discuss the details of your policy with your agent. To ensure that you have enough coverage for your items, create an inventory of your personal belongings. In fact, this is very crucial in the event that you have a claim. Your inventory should include photos or videos as well as any receipts or documentation of its value. 

Liability Coverage: Protecting You from Legal and Financial Responsibility 

If you’re wondering about liability coverage from renters insurance, you can count on that being one component of your policy. Liability coverage will take care of the expenses associated with a visitor getting injured on your property. For example, suppose a visitor slips and falls in your home, injuring their leg. If they decide to sue, your liability coverage will help take care of legal costs, up to a certain limit. Some policies offer up to $100,000 in liability coverage. 

Additional Living Expenses: What Happens If You Can’t Stay in Your Rental? 

Additional living expenses on your renters insurance is very critical in the event your home is severely damaged. For example, if a fire causes substantial damage to your living space, you would need to move out temporarily while repairs are made. Your plan will cover the cost of living expenses during this time. 

The Different Types of Coverage in a Renters Insurance Policy 

Let’s get down to the renters insurance policy details, specifically what the different types of coverage protect. 

Coverage for Fire, Theft, and Other Damages 

Renters insurance theft coverage is included in most policies. Other things you can expect coverage for include: 

• Fire or lightning 

• Smoke damage 

• Windstorm 

• Accidental discharge of water 

• Vandalism or malicious mischief 

What’s Included Under Personal Property Protection 

With personal property protection, you have coverage for the following: 

• Furniture 

• Clothing 

• Television or entertainment system 

• Computers or other electronic devices 

• Musical or sporting equipment 

Just as with any policy, there may be some limitations. For example, high-value items may not be covered, like jewelry or coin collections. However, you may be able to add extra protection to your policy. 

Liability Coverage for Accidents or Damage to Others 

Don’t get stuck paying legal costs if you are found legally responsible for injuries to other people or damage to their property while they are in your residence. With liability, you are protected. Just be sure you have the right amount to fit your needs. 

What’s Not Covered by Renters Insurance? 

You may question, “What does renters insurance not cover?” That is a valid question that needs to be considered. There are certain limitations with any policy. The most common ones are outlined below. 

Damage to Your Car and Other Vehicles 

Although you can count on a policy covering your personal belongings within your home, your vehicle and other items outside of the house are generally not protected. In the case of your car, you will need a separate auto policy for that. In some cases, items inside your car may be covered in the event of theft or vandalism, as well as items in an off-site storage unit or in transit from one home to another. 

Earthquakes and Flooding: When You Need Extra Coverage 

A standard policy for tenants will not cover certain natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods, or sinkholes. If you live in an area where these types of disasters occur regularly, you may want to consider a separate policy to cover this. It’s very common for people to get a separate flood policy. 

Other Renters Insurance Exclusions to Be Aware Of 

There are some other renters insurance exclusions that you should be aware of. Some of these include pest infestations, wear and tear, intentional damage, and neglectful actions. 

Certain high-value items, such as fine art, jewelry, or collectibles, may only be partially covered. Adding a rider or endorsement can provide added protection. 

Why Renters Insurance Is a Must-Have for Renters 

Renters insurance benefits are numerous, making this type of policy a must-have. 

The Peace of Mind That Comes with Coverage 

You never know when an unexpected emergency will damage your home and property. What if the kid upstairs overflows the bathtub or severe weather strikes your neighborhood? Having a renters insurance policy will give you peace of mind. 

How Renters Insurance Protects You Beyond Your Belongings 

As noted above, this policy will provide more than just protection for your belongings. Imagine how much money you would be out if a visitor got injured while in your home. The legal expenses alone could wipe you out. Your coverage ensures that you won’t lose what’s most important to you. 

How to Choose the Right Renters Insurance Policy 

Selecting the right policy is the first step in making sure your coverage is adequate in times of need. 

Factors to Consider When Selecting Your Coverage Limits 

Some of the main factors to consider when selecting your coverage limits include how much your personal belongings are worth. You don’t want to underestimate the value of your property. This means taking a careful inventory of all your possessions and estimating how much coverage you would need if they were destroyed or stolen. 

Another thing to consider is the extent of your liability risk. For example, if you have visitors often, you might need more coverage. Or if you have an animal, there’s always a risk of something happening. 

Understanding Your Needs and Adjusting Your Policy 

You can always adjust your policy limits as life changes. If you purchased new furniture or other items that raise the value of your personal property, you will want to increase your coverage. 

How Acceptance Insurance Can Help You Get the Right Renters Insurance Coverage 

Secure the best policy for your specific needs when you reach out to Acceptance Insurance. Our agents are ready to assist you with a suitable policy. Get your free quote today. Find an affordable plan that works for your property needs. Contact us by phone at (877) 405-7102, visit one of our many locations, or get a quote online. 

FAQs 

Are My Roommates Covered Under My Renters Insurance? 

No, your roommates are not automatically covered under your policy. A standard policy only protects the named policyholder. 

Does Renters Insurance Cover Damage Caused by My Pets? 

If your pet causes damage to your personal belongings or the rental unit, you most likely will not be covered. However, if your pet injures a visitor, your liability coverage will kick in, as long as your insurance company knew about and approved your pet before you purchased your policy. Some breeds may not be covered. 

Does Renters Insurance Cover Natural Disasters? 

Some natural disasters are covered under a standard tenant’s policy. However, not all natural disasters will be covered. It’s best to check with your agent for the specifics of your plan. You can also discuss adding special coverage to fit the natural disaster risk in your area.