Fountain FinancesSmarter money decisions

Renters Insurance

Low-cost protection for your belongings and liability as a tenant.

By Fountain Finances Editorial TeamUpdated

What renters insurance covers

  • Personal property: your belongings, against covered events like fire, theft and certain water damage — even when they are outside your home in many cases.
  • Personal liability: injuries to others or damage you accidentally cause, including legal defense.
  • Additional living expenses: temporary housing and costs if your rental becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss.
  • Medical payments: minor injuries to guests.

What it typically doesn’t cover

Floods and earthquakes are usually excluded, as is damage to the building itself (the landlord’s responsibility). High-value items like jewelry may have limits unless you add a rider.

Choosing coverage

  1. Inventory your belongings — photos or a video walkthrough make claims easier.
  2. Choose replacement cost coverage rather than actual cash value if the budget allows.
  3. Pick a deductible your emergency fund can cover.
  4. Bundle with auto insurance for a possible discount.

Renters insurance is one of the most affordable policies relative to the protection it offers. See how it compares with other coverage in our types of insurance guide.

Frequently asked questions

Doesn’t my landlord’s insurance cover my things?

No. A landlord’s policy covers the building and the landlord’s liability, not your personal belongings or your liability to others.

How much renters insurance do I need?

Take a quick inventory of your belongings and estimate what it would cost to replace them. Choose personal property coverage near that total and liability coverage high enough to protect your savings.

Is renters insurance required?

It is not required by law, but many landlords require it in the lease.

Part of our Insurance hub and our complete personal finance guide. Read our editorial standards.

Renters Insurance guides

All guides →