What tenant insurance covers
The three core parts of a renters policy: your belongings, your liability, and extra living costs after a covered loss.
Tenant insurance — usually written on an HO-4 renters form — is built around three parts. Personal property coverage pays to repair or replace your belongings after a covered loss such as fire, smoke, theft, vandalism, or certain water damage. Personal liability coverage helps if you are legally responsible for injuring someone or damaging someone else's property. Loss of use, often called additional living expenses, helps with reasonable extra costs if a covered loss makes your unit unlivable.
Your landlord's policy generally protects the building and the landlord's own liability. It does not usually pay for your couch, laptop, clothing, or bike, and it does not defend you if a guest is hurt inside your unit or if your overflowing bathtub damages the apartment below.
Common exclusions include flood, earthquake, wear and tear, pests, and intentional damage. Flood coverage is sold separately, and earthquake coverage may be available as an add-on or separate policy depending on the state and insurer.
When you request a quote, list the type of home you rent, an honest estimate of what your belongings would cost to replace, any high-value items, and any pets. That information shapes the coverage limits and price you see.
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
- 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
- Picking a renters deductible
- What tenant insurance costs
- How to file a renters claim