How to file a renters claim

What to do in the first 48 hours after a fire, theft, or water loss in your rental.

Make sure everyone is safe, then prevent further damage if you can do so safely — shut off water, cover openings, and move undamaged items. Report theft or vandalism to the police and keep the report number.

Notify your landlord and your insurer promptly. Take photos and video of the damage before cleanup, and keep damaged items until the adjuster says you may discard them.

Build a list of damaged or stolen items with approximate age, purchase price, and where you bought them. Your pre-loss inventory, receipts, and bank or card statements all help.

If you must move out, keep receipts for hotels, meals, laundry, and mileage. With replacement cost coverage, insurers often pay actual cash value first and the rest after you replace the item.

Coverage at a glance

Renters coverage parts
CoverageWhat it pays forTypical choice
Personal propertyFurniture, clothing, electronics, and other belongings after a covered loss, at home or awaySet to the replacement value of what you own
Personal liabilityInjury or property damage you cause to others, plus legal defense$100,000 minimum; $300,000+ common
Loss of useExtra hotel, meal, and living costs while your rental is unlivableOften a percentage of the property limit
Medical payments to othersA guest's minor medical bills, regardless of faultTypically 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

Tenant insurance by state