Usually, landlords get insurance to protect the rental property from fire and damages; however, that policy does not provide coverage for the personal belongings of the tenant. It only insures the apartment or house. As a tenant, you should always invest in renters insurance, which offers coverage to protect you from any unforeseen events, such as fire, that may cause damage to your clothes, computer, and even the neighbor’s property. Your insurance can cover all the losses and pay for the replacements. Though the renters insurance policies may vary, the common things that they cover are:
Personal property: Evaluate your belongings such as furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances, etc., and find out their worth, as you can choose the policy based on the cost of your belongings. A renter’s insurance policy covers your personal assets against theft, fire, hailstorms, vandalism, water damage, explosions, and electrical problems. This means you are protected from the losses that you might incur due to any of these situations.
Personal Liability: If someone is accidently hurt in the premises of your rental property or because of you, your renter’s insurance policy will provide liability coverage to pay for all legal costs. You should check with your insurance provider to know about the limits of your personal liability coverage.
Medical Coverage: The renter’s policy also covers medical expenses if someone other than you or your family members is injured on your rental property.
Damage to Other’s Property: The renters insurance policy offers coverage even if you accidently damage or break anyone else’s property. The insurance company will pay for the repairs and the replacements.
Additional living expenses: Often, you may have to incur additional expenses due to damages caused to your property. If your rented house becomes uninhabitable and you have to temporarily stay somewhere else, these additional living costs, also known as loss-of-use coverage, are covered by the renters insurance. These expenses may include housing, food, and any other costs that you bear until your rental house is repaired and you move back into the house.
Optional Coverage: You can take optional coverage for expensive items such as jewelry, antiques, coins, and other items that have high value. You can discuss your requirements with your renter insurance provider who will explain you everything regarding the coverages available.