Questions and Answers about Renters Insurance

Posted on Feb 05, 2013 by HTQ Staff Writer

In any given year, burglary losses in the United States run in the billions of dollars. The average residential loss often exceeds $1,000.00 (Insurance Industry News)

Many renters do not realize they have so much to lose, whether it is personal belongings or financial loss due to legal liability. If you do not already have renters insurance, you may question its importance and the coverage it provides. Check out some common questions and answers below. You might be surprised to learn just how much you risk losing without proper insurance for both your personal liability and your personal belongings.

Q: Why would I need a renters insurance policy if my landlord carries insurance?

A: The insurance your landlord carries covers the building structure, but does not cover your personal belongings—your furniture, wardrobe, appliances, television—anything that you’ve moved into the building. You need a renters policy to cover your personal possessions.

Q: Just what is covered by renters insurance? (Also known as “insured Peril”)

A: A covered peril is a cause of loss for which a renters insurance policy will provide protection. Insured losses include theft, fire, smoke, lightning, explosion, riot, vandalism, hail, and water damage from plumbing.

Q: What are the odds of my home/apartment/condo being burglarized?

A: Chances of a burglary in your home are greater than you think. In fact, a burglary occurs about every ten seconds. According to recent FBI statistics, two of every three burglaries occur in homes, condos, or apartments with an average loss of $1,004 per residence!

Q: Renters insurance covers theft in the home. What if I’m held-up while away from my home, or if I’m a pickpocket victim?

A: Renters Insurance can provide coverage from theft whether it occurs at home or away from home. This coverage includes protection against loss from robbery, pickpocket theft..Even credit card loss, forged checks or counterfeit money.

Q: If my video cassette recorder of stereo were stolen, would my renters insurance provide coverage to buy a new one?

A: The Personal Property Replacement Cost Option in a Renters Policy assures you that most of your covered property will be repaired or replaced without deduction for depreciation. For example: if stolen they above mentioned items will be replace with Brand new items.

Q: What is the difference between an ACV (actual cash value) and Replacement cost policies?

A: ACV policies are cheaper because they take into account the age of the item that is lost or destroyed. For Example: a 5 year old Stereo is stolen. An ACV policy will only reimburse you the value of a 5 year old stereo! (Maybe $100 if you’re lucky!) A replacement policy says go buy a NEW Stereo of like Brand, quality, features as the one that was stolen and we’ll give you the money to buy it brand new!

Q: What if my child accidentally breaks a neighbor’s window?

A: A renters policy covers property damage caused by you or your family members (up to the policy limits.) This family coverage is automatic in most renters policies.

Q: How can I determine how much insurance I need?

A: Add up the dollar value of everything you own in your home. Clothing, furniture, television, stereo equipment, computers, kitchen utensils, etc. What would it cost Brand New if you had to replace everything? Most companies have a calculator to help you get in the ball park, but ultimately, it is your responsibility to determine how much you need.

Finally: As a Renter, you face many of the same risks as a homeowner. Some renter’s think they can never be sued as they don’t Own the property. What if you are out playing golf or softball with friends and someone gets hit with a ball? (either bodily injury and/or property damage) The liability of a renters policy will defend you and pay any damages up to the limit that you choose.

Shopping around for the right renters insurance policy is a smart investment of your time and purchasing a good policy is a smart use of your money. Start shopping today…you made need it sooner than we hope you do.