Your Guide to Understanding Renter’s Insurance

Everyone knows about homeowner’s insurance, but what do you do if you don’t own your home? Is there any way to get coverage in the event that your belongings are damaged or stolen? 

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You don’t have to be a homeowner to have items that are valuable and worth protecting, and that’s where renter’s insurance can step in and give you peace of mind. Read on for a short guide explaining the ins and outs of this important type of insurance.

Renter’s insurance 101

Renter’s insurance is a type of insurance that can cover the expense of repairing or replacing your belongings if they are damaged by an event covered in the policy, or if they are stolen. Renter’s insurance can also offer protection in case you are taken to court because someone fell or was injured in your rented home or apartment.

Who can benefit from having renter’s insurance?

Renter’s insurance is a great option for anyone who rents their living space instead of owning it. This can apply to a home, apartment units, and even to college students who are living off campus in a rented house or apartment complex. There are some circumstances where renter’s insurance may not be needed—for example, if you are a college student and you have opted to live in a dorm on campus, you may still be covered under your parents’ homeowner’s policy. Talk with your trusted insurance broker to see if renter’s insurance is a good fit for you.

If I rent my home, do I have to get renter’s insurance?

Unlike vehicle insurance, there is no state requirement to get renter’s insurance if you rent the place you’re living in. It’s important to note however that even though it’s not required by law, sometimes a landlord or an apartment complex will make it a requirement in the renter’s agreement you sign.  

What are the advantages of having renter’s insurance?

If you rent the space you’re living in, your landlord most likely has insurance to cover the structure of the home or apartment. But that coverage will not extend to your personal belongings. In the event of a fire or other catastrophe, or a burglary, your valuables could be lost or damaged without you having any help in repairing or replacing them. Beyond that, if someone gets hurt while they are in your rented home, you would be responsible for paying out of pocket if they sue you and win. Renter’s insurance can give you coverage for your belongings if they are lost or damaged in a covered event, and help you if you are found liable for an injury happening in your space.

What kinds of things does renter’s insurance provide coverage for?

It’s important to keep in mind that coverage does vary from policy to policy, but there are a few basics when it comes to renter’s insurance. Generally speaking, renter’s insurance covers your personal possessions in the event they are damaged by a covered event or stolen, and your personal liability if you are sued for medical or other expenses after someone has an accident in your home. Depending on the terms of your policy, you may also have coverage for “loss of use,” which means you could get help paying for a temporary place to stay if your rented space is considered not livable after a covered catastrophic event like a fire.

Are you wondering whether a renter’s insurance policy might be right for you? Give PA Auto Insurance Outlet a call today, and talk to our experts about getting a renter’s insurance policy that fits your budget and needs!

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