Renters insurance helps protect you and your belongings when you’re renting an apartment, house, or other living space. Rates for renters insurance varies by company and also range in price depending on the amount of coverage purchased, the deductible amount, and the type of coverage selected. While many renters focus on coverage for belongings if their rental is burglarized, it’s also important to consider coverage for water damage.
Does Renters Insurance Cover Water Damage?
A basic renters insurance policy may provide coverage for personal property losses caused by the following:
- Windstorm or hail
- Weight of sleet, snow, and/or ice
- Smoke
- Fire and/or lightning
- Explosions
- Freezing of plumbing systems
- Fire sprinkler failure/accidental discharge
- Accidental or sudden discharge of water from a plumbing system or other appliance
This list will vary depending on the insurance company and the policy purchased by the individual renter. It’s a good idea to check your policy before damage happens to ensure you have the scope of coverage that’s right for you.
When damage does occur, for example, if a pipe breaks under your sink and floods the kitchen, in most cases your landlord would be responsible to repair the broken pipes and any structural damage. You would be responsible for repairing or replacing any damaged personal property. If something like this happens, call your property manager immediately and then place a call to your renter’s insurance agent to make sure your personal property is covered.
How ServiceMaster Restore Can Help
When your furniture and other personal belongings suffer water damage, look to the professionals at ServiceMaster® Restore for safe, thorough water damage cleanup and restoration of your personal belongings. We’re here for you, whether it’s to clean your rugs and upholstered furniture or to provide pack-out services.
