Landlord Insurance
What is landlord insurance?
If you rent out a property—standard homeowners insurance may not fully protect you. Landlord insurance provides coverage tailored to rental activity, giving you peace of mind and financial protection.
Why occupancy matters
How a property is occupied plays a major role in how it should be insured. Insurance carriers assess risk differently depending on whether a property is owner-occupied, tenant-occupied, vacant, or used occasionally.
Tenant-occupied properties are typically eligible for landlord insurance policies.
Owner-occupied or part-time use may not qualify and might require a different type of policy.
Vacant properties may carry higher risks and need special coverage during unoccupied periods.
Clearly identifying how the property is used helps ensure the policy is valid and provides the protection intended.
What’s typically covered?
A standard landlord insurance policy generally includes:
Dwelling Coverage
Protects the physical structure of your rental property.Other Structures
Coverage for garages, sheds, or fences on the premises.Landlord-Furnished Property
Includes items like appliances or furniture (be sure to disclose if the unit is furnished).Loss of Rental Income
Reimburses lost income if the property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered claim.Liability Protection
Covers legal or medical costs if someone is injured on the property.
Common covered perils include:
Fire and lightning
Windstorms
Vandalism and theft
Smoke damage
Falling objects
Vehicle or aircraft damage
Explosions
What’s not covered?
Landlord insurance typically does not cover:
Routine maintenance or wear and tear
Damage caused by floods or earthquakes (these require separate policies)
Owner-occupied property, unless specifically endorsed
Tenants’ belongings (tenants should secure their own renters insurance)
Bonus Tip:
Tenants are responsible for protecting their personal belongings and liability. Requiring renters insurance in your lease is a smart move—it helps protect tenants' personal property, covers temporary housing, and provides liability coverage if they accidentally cause damage or injury.