California Renter's Insurance
If you opt to rent instead of own your home, you aren’t alone. California’s homeownership rates are on the decline, and the state overall has a lower rate of homeownership compared to the national average.
As a renter, it’s essential to protect your home and yourself with comprehensive renters insurance. Some California landlords may even require you to secure coverage to rent their property.
Even if your landlord doesn’t make this obligatory, renters insurance is well worth the investment.
How Renters Insurance Protects You
As a renter, you don’t own the larger building or property your apartment is located on. Your landlord should have their insurance cover damage to these structural elements, such as the roof and foundation.
However, your landlord’s insurance won’t cover what’s inside your apartment.
Here’s what renters insurance covers:
You likely have hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars’ worth of belongings in your home. Your phone, computer, furniture, and clothing are all valuables.
Renters insurance may cover losses of personal property due to accidents or inclement weather. It also covers what’s known as “malicious mischief” from vandalism to theft.
Liability coverage protects you financially if another person is injured or their property is damaged while they are under your roof.
For example, if someone trips, falls, and breaks their ankle going up your stairs due to a broken railing, you may be held liable. Liability coverage will pay up to a certain amount of the individual’s medical expenses.
If your apartment is severely damaged due to a storm, for example, you may not be able to live there safely. Loss of use covers living expenses for the time needed to repair the property or find a new home.
How Much Renters Insurance Coverage Do You Need?
To determine how much coverage you need, follow these steps:
- Create a home inventory of all your valuables, noting where you acquired each item and how much it's worth. If you have receipts for items, set these aside
- Tally up the total cost of what your property is worth. You should get coverage in at least this amount
- Take photos of pricier valuables, like electronics and jewelry. These can help serve as evidence if you ever file a claim
- Store your inventory list in a secure place outside of the home, such as a safe deposit box. If disaster strikes, you can access this list to make filing a claim easier
Get Competitive Rates for California Renters Insurance
There are many types of renters insurance available. Insurance By Castle will help you secure the best deal. We operate independently of insurance providers, allowing us to shop around and secure our clients the most affordable rates.
Request a quote below or call (800) 644-6443 for questions.