Do You Need Renter’s Insurance?

Do you need renter’s insurance? At Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia, in Kingwood, WV, we are happy to answer all your questions about renter’s insurance.

What is Renter’s Insurance

When you rent, your landlord is responsible for the home itself. Their insurance policy will generally cover structural damage. However, it will not cover your possessions. It won’t cover damages related to negligence either.

For example, you leave your door open, and your dog runs outside. Your dog bites the neighbor. This results in medical bills and them suing you for personal damages. Renter’s policies can cover your personal belongings as well as expenses that result from negligence. 

Renter’s Insurance Coverage

Renter’s insurance typically covers your personal belongings. However, most policies have a limit to how much they will cover for things like electronics and jewelry. If you have anything that is particularly valuable, you may need to add a personal article policy.

Liability coverage will cover any expenses resulting from negligence. However, it will not cover intentional damages. If you get angry with your neighbor and throw a rock through their window, your renter’s insurance will not cover that. If you are mowing your grass and a rock hits the window from the mower, it will cover that.

Many policies also cover loss of use. If your home is damaged and you have to live somewhere else temporarily, your renter’s policy will cover these expenses. 

Is It Necessary?

Renter’s Insurance is a good idea if:

• You don’t have the cash to replace all your belongings
• It would be a financial strain if you had to live somewhere else temporarily
• You have resources or assets that you could lose in a negligence suit

If you would like to learn more about renter’s insurance in Kingwood, WV, contact us at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia. We can help you choose renter’s insurance that fits your budget and offers the protection you need.