Does my landlord's insurance cover my stuff?

Usually not. A landlord's policy commonly covers the building and the landlord's liability. Your belongings and your own liability need a renters policy.

Can roommates share one renters policy?

Some insurers allow it, but many policies only cover the named insured and their household relatives. Separate policies keep claims and coverage simpler. Ask a licensed agent what your insurer allows.

Does renters insurance cover my laptop if it is stolen from my car?

Many renters policies cover belongings away from home, after the deductible and subject to any limits for theft from vehicles. Check your policy's off-premises and theft wording.

Personal insurance guide

Renters insurance, explained

Your landlord's insurance covers the building, not your things and not your liability. A renters policy covers your belongings wherever they are, pays for somewhere to stay if your unit becomes unlivable after a covered loss, and protects you if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property.

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What renters commonly covers

Who usually carries it

Apartment, duplex, and house renters
Students living off campus
Tenants whose lease requires proof of renters insurance
Roommates, who usually need their own policies

Commonly covered

Your belongings, at home or away, from covered causes such as fire, theft, and smoke
Extra living costs if your rental is unlivable after a covered loss
Personal liability if you injure someone or damage their property
Damage you accidentally cause to the landlord's building, in many policies
Small medical bills for injured guests, regardless of fault

Commonly excluded or limited

The building itself (that is the landlord's policy)
Flood from rising water
Sewer or drain backup, unless added
Jewelry, firearms, and electronics above built-in limits unless scheduled
Belongings of roommates who are not named on the policy

This page is general information about how these policies commonly work. Every policy's own forms, endorsements, and exclusions decide what it covers. For advice about your situation, talk with a licensed insurance agent.

Before your renewal

What to check on your own policy

Personal property limit compared with what it would cost to replace your things
Replacement cost or actual cash value for belongings
Liability limit, and whether your lease asks for a specific amount
Whether your landlord needs to be listed as an interested party
Scheduled items for jewelry, instruments, or other valuables

Not sure what your policy says?

Upload your declarations page. The free AI coverage check lists your coverages, limits, and deductibles in plain language and flags items to discuss with a licensed agent.

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Renters questions

Know what you're covered for before you need it.

Check your coverage free in about a minute, then talk with a licensed agent about anything you want to change or quote.