If you're considering renters insurance but need more details before you buy, check out this section for essential info every renter should know.
General info
What is renters insurance?
Renters insurance helps cover the cost of replacing your belongings if they're damaged by theft, vandalism, fire, or other disasters. Renters insurance provides personal liability protection as well.
If you rent a house, condo, or apartment, renters insurance protects your stuff anywhere in the world. So if your prized new Canon goes in the ocean or your iPod is stolen from your car, your belongings are protected.
I don't have that much stuff. Why do I need renters insurance?
You may think that your stuff doesn't amount to much. But if you've ever had to move, you know that you have more things than you actually realize — furniture, books, dishes, pots, pans, clothes, personal electronics, and more. Can you actually afford to replace all of your personal belongings if they were damaged or stolen? If the answer is no, then you need reliable renters insurance to protect you when the unexpected occurs.
Do college students need renters insurance?
Yes. As a starving college student, you might think that you don't have that much stuff. In reality, once you take a look around your apartment or dorm, you'll probably realize that you have thousands of dollars of personal belongings. Can you afford to replace your Mac or HP computer, iPod, stereo system, TV, bicycle, furniture, and all the stuff you love if a fire or theft occurs?
If the answer is no, then you definitely need a renters insurance policy. For just a few dollars a month, you can secure reliable coverage.
Does renters insurance differ by state?
Yes, renters insurance regulations vary from state to state. However, whether you rent a Victorian in California or a loft in New York, you can count on renters insurance through Esurance to give you the protection you need.
Can I rent a home without renters insurance?
This depends on your landlord. Some landlords will require renters insurance to protect them from liability. Whether or not it's required, however, we recommend buying renters insurance to protect yourself and the contents of your home. It's very affordable — usually around 50 cents a day* — and will provide superior protection in case the unexpected occurs.
Do I need different renters insurance coverage for different types of rental properties?
Generally speaking, no. Your renters insurance policy covers the contents of your home and not the structure you're renting. However, the specifics of your policy might change depending on the type of rental home you inhabit. For example, if you're renting a small studio and don't have much furniture, you might not need as much property coverage. Conversely, if you're renting a 3-bedroom home and have tons of personal belongings, you might want to consider the maximum coverages and limits.
Whether you're renting a loft, apartment, or single-family home, get your free renters insurance quote anytime.
Doesn't my landlord's insurance policy cover my stuff?
No. Your landlord's property insurance only covers the structure of the rental property, not the contents within. To protect the things you've worked to acquire, you'll need your own insurance policy.
Should my landlord pay for my renters insurance?
Your landlord will most likely not foot the bill for your policy since he or she is probably already paying for landlord insurance. Thankfully, renters insurance is really affordable, so you won't have to sacrifice quality coverage to balance your budget.
Will my roommate be insured under my renters insurance policy?
Renters insurance protects the property of the people listed on the policy. Unless your roommate is listed as an additional insured on your insurance policy (or is a domestic partner, spouse, or member of your family), he or she will not be covered. It's recommended that each tenant in an apartment or rental home gets his or her own policy, but you'll have the option of adding a co-applicant when you get your quote.
Getting the most out of your quote
Can I get a quote and buy my renters insurance policy online?
Yes. In just a few minutes, you can customize your quote and buy your policy directly online. All you need to have on hand is your basic information and an accepted method of payment to buy your policy. It's as easy as that.
When I get my renters insurance quote, what factors should I consider to get the most out of my coverage?
While price is a determining factor, it shouldn't be the only factor. Make sure you also take into account the limits, deductibles, and coverages offered by your renters insurance policy.
Renters insurance offered through our partners can provide:
- Loss-of-use coverage, which helps pay living expenses if you need to live somewhere else
- Personal liability coverage
- Coverage of up to $10,000 per person for certain accident-related medical expenses
- Identity theft coverage
- Replacement cost coverage (for your personal things)
- Off-premises coverage for your property
Be sure to carefully weigh your appetite for risk, the amount of protection you require for your belongings, and your budget. Generally speaking, the higher your deductible and the lower your limits, the less your renters insurance costs. Note, however, that with a higher deductible you'll also be assuming more risk.
How should I compare renters insurance coverages?
You should compare renters insurance coverages the same way you compare car insurance coverages. When comparing renters insurance policies, you should take into consideration:
- The price
- The limits of your policy
- The minimum deductible required
- The types of coverage that come standard
- The additional coverages you can add for more protection
Coverages, discounts, and billing options are subject to state availability, individual qualification, and/or the insuring company's underwriting guidelines.
This page is intended to provide you with general information about renters insurance, and to help you understand the various kinds of coverage. It does not describe or refer to any specific policy or coverage. For information about your particular coverages, including limitations and exclusions, we encourage you to read your policy contract and consult your insurance representative with any questions.
*Average monthly cost and annual premium figures based on renters insurance policies purchased between 1/1/2011 and 10/31/2011. Your premium will depend on the details of your selected coverage and your specific property. Coverages subject to availability and qualifications. Terms, conditions, limits and exclusions will apply.