When renting a property, many tenants assume their landlord’s insurance will protect their belongings and liabilities. However, that’s not always the case. Landlord insurance typically covers the building itself, not the tenant’s personal property or risks. This is where tenant insurance (often called renter’s insurance) comes in.
Below is a guide to what insurers usually cover under tenant policies:
1. Personal Belongings
Tenant insurance generally protects your possessions against risks such as:
- Fire and smoke damage
- Theft and burglary
- Vandalism
- Water damage (not flooding)
- Storm-related damage
This means your clothes, electronics, furniture, and even kitchen appliances you own are often included. Some policies also cover items outside the home—for example, if your laptop is stolen while you’re at a café.
2. Liability Protection
Accidents happen, and liability coverage protects you if:
- A guest gets injured in your home.
- You accidentally damage the landlord’s property.
- You’re found legally responsible for unintentional harm to others.
This protection helps cover legal expenses and compensation, giving you peace of mind.
3. Loss of Use (Alternative Accommodation)
If your rental property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event (like a fire), tenant insurance may cover the cost of temporary accommodation, meals, or even transport while repairs are carried out.
4. Optional Add-Ons
Many insurers allow tenants to extend coverage. Common add-ons include:
- Accidental damage (e.g., spilling wine on the carpet).
- High-value item cover for jewelry, gadgets, or art.
- Flood insurance, since standard policies usually exclude flooding.
- Worldwide cover for items you take abroad.
What’s Not Usually Covered
It’s equally important to know what insurers don’t usually cover. Standard exclusions often include:
- Wear and tear
- Intentional damage
- Pests or infestations
- Business use of the property (unless stated in the policy)
Tenant insurance is often affordable and provides a safety net that landlord policies simply don’t offer. By understanding what’s covered and what isn’t, you can choose the right policy to protect yourself, your belongings, and your peace of mind.
