How to get started
- Estimate the value of your belongings
- Choose coverage and a deductible
- Add your landlord as an interested party if required
- Download proof of insurance for your lease
Pros
- Instant proof of insurance for landlords
- Covers theft and liability
- Cancel anytime
Cons
- High-value items need add-ons
- Not available in every state
What to watch for
- Flood and earthquake are usually excluded
- Limits on electronics and jewelry
- Replacement cost vs actual cash value
Verdict
Cheap protection that often satisfies a lease requirement in minutes.
Frequently asked questions
Does it cover my roommate?
Usually not, unless they are named on the policy.
Does it cover theft outside my home?
Many policies cover personal property stolen elsewhere, within limits.
Guides that mention it
- Moving to New York City: the newcomer’s guide
- Bay Area on a budget: neighborhoods that still make sense
- Renting your first US apartment: leases, deposits and guarantors
- Campus housing vs off-campus apartments
- Renters insurance explained: what it covers and how much you need
- How to rent an apartment in the US with no credit history