Insurance for renters is a hot topic in the world of renters. Obviously tenants want to protect themselves and their property, but at what cost?
We pose the questions: is renters insurance a wise choice for tenants, and can a landlord require it?
Keep reading to get our industry insights on renters insurance in California!
What Is Renters Insurance?
Renters insurance, or tenants insurance, is defined as a type of insurance policy that provides coverage for a renter’s possessions while they are living in a rental property. It typically provides coverage for belongings from theft, vandalism, and damage caused by fire, smoke, and some weather-related incidents.
Depending on the type of policy, some renters insurance covers additional items such as lost property, personal liability, living expenses if the rental becomes temporarily inhabitable, and medical expenses for injured guests.
What kinds of things does renters insurance cover?
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Furniture
- Jewelry
- Sports equipment
- Firearms and ammunition
- Musical instruments
- Collections like baseball cards, comic books, and album covers
Additional coverage can be added to a policy for high-value items, such as a jet ski or a fur coat.
It’s also important to note that renters insurance is different from home and landlord insurance. Those types of policies are intended to cover the property owners only and will not provide the specific coverage a renter needs for a stolen or damaged item.
Can It Cover Items Outside Of The Rental Unit?
It can! No matter where you are, your personal property is covered when you have a current renters insurance policy in place. This can include items that are outside of the structure, like a yard or a parking space. Renters insurance can protect belongings that are inside your car wherever it is parked.
Also, the right policy will protect your belongings while you are on vacation at a hotel. The policy can also cover you while you are moving. Many policies offer 30 days of protection from the day the move begins.
Is Renters Insurance A Requirement In California?
It is not required by California law, however, many landlords can enforce a policy that requires renters insurance as a term of the lease. A landlord wants to protect their assets, but they also want their tenants to have protection in the event of unforeseen circumstances or events.
Do You Own A Pet?
One area where renters insurance can be extremely helpful is for pets and pet owners. Renters insurance can lower the risk of property damage expenses caused by pets and also provide dog-bite liability. In the United States, 68% of households have a pet, so having a policy that protects all members of the family, even the furry ones, is a huge bonus.
Learn More About Insurance From Leading Professionals!
We are here to support the community of landlords and renters however we can. Check our previous blog: The Pros And Cons Of Hiring A Leasing Agent for more insights into rental property topics.
We understand that insuring a rental property in California can be confusing, and we are here to help! Get in contact with us today and get a quote, or to learn more about us and what we can do for you.
