Picking a renters deductible
How the deductible affects price and what most renters choose.
The deductible is the part of a covered property loss you pay before insurance pays. Common choices are $250, $500, and $1,000.
A higher deductible lowers the premium, but choose an amount you could comfortably pay the week of a loss.
Liability claims generally do not have a deductible, and ALE usually does not either.
Some regions use separate deductibles for wind or hail. Ask how the deductible works on any quote you receive.
Coverage at a glance
| Coverage | What it pays for | Typical choice |
|---|---|---|
| Personal property | Furniture, clothing, electronics, and other belongings after a covered loss, at home or away | Set to the replacement value of what you own |
| Personal liability | Injury or property damage you cause to others, plus legal defense | $100,000 minimum; $300,000+ common |
| Loss of use | Extra hotel, meal, and living costs while your rental is unlivable | Often a percentage of the property limit |
| Medical payments to others | A guest's minor medical bills, regardless of fault | Typically a few thousand dollars |
Commonly covered causes of loss
- Fire and smoke
- Lightning
- Windstorm and hail
- Explosion
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Sudden water discharge from plumbing or appliances
- Freezing of plumbing
- Weight of ice and snow
- Falling objects
- Damage by vehicles
- Riot or civil commotion
Commonly not covered
- Flood and rising surface water
- Earthquake and earth movement
- Bedbugs, rodents, and insects
- Wear, tear, and gradual leaks
- The building itself (your landlord's policy)
- Your car (an auto policy)
More guides
- What tenant insurance covers
- Choosing a personal property limit
- Liability coverage for renters
- Additional living expenses explained
- Proof of insurance for your lease
- Roommates and tenant insurance
- Protecting jewelry and valuables
- What tenant insurance costs
- How to file a renters claim