Does Renters Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

Renters insurance can help cover repairs and replacements that are needed due to certain types of storm damage. Let’s take a look at what renters can and cannot expect to be covered under their policies.

What Does Renters Insurance Include?

The typical renters insurance package will cover the following:

• Deductible: The amount you are responsible for to cover each time you file a claim prior to the insurance kicking in.
• Personal property: Covering the cost of replacing your belongings if they become damaged or stolen.
• Personal liability: Covering legal costs from property damage or injury.
• Loss of use: Paying for accommodations if you are forced to leave the residence.
• Safety features: This can include things like burglary alarms and smoke detectors, resulting in discounts.
• Add-ons: You can customize your policy to increase payout limits for certain items, or tack on earthquake cover or identity theft.

What Types Of Storm Damage Does Renters Insurance Cover?

The personal property coverage included in renters insurance will help cover certain belongings from specified risks, typically described as “perils”. Renters insurance will likely help pay for damages caused by the following perils:

• Wildfire.
• Hail.
• Lightning.
• Windstorms.
• Snow, sleet, or ice.

For example, if some personal items are damaged as the result of a tornado, your renters insurance policy can help cover repair or replacement costs. When you choose a renters insurance policy, you’ll be able to pick whether you want replacement cost coverage or actual cash value coverage.

Replacement cost coverage can help reimburse renters for the amount it would cost to buy the damaged item today. Actual cash value, meanwhile, offers reimbursement for the depreciated value or item prior to the damage. Your specific coverage type can help you determine exactly how much the policy will pay toward your covered claim.

Always be mindful that limits and a deductible may be applicable. The personal property coverage limit will be the maximum amount your insurer will reimburse you for a covered loss. It’s crucial to know the true value of your belongings in order to set a coverage limit appropriate for your needs.

The deductible is the amount you are responsible for before your insurance reimburses you for a covered claim. Always review your policy and contact your provider to see what types of storm damages are covered.

What Types Of Storm Damage Are NOT Covered By Renters Insurance?

Every renters insurance policy will detail the types of perils that are not covered. Typically, renters insurance will not cover the following:

• Landslides or mudslides.
• Flooding.
• Earth movement.

How To Get Renters Insurance

Obtaining renters insurance is already quick, but there are a few things you can do to speed up this process:

• Having residence information ready: Know details like damage and safety features of your residence. You may have to do a little digging if you are renting an apartment or home for this information.
• Coverage amount: Know exactly how much coverage you’ll need ahead of time. You can get a good idea by making a home inventory of all your belongings. Figure out the total costs and how much you’d need to repair or replace them.
• Personal information: You will need to verify your previous address, Social Security number, and decide if you want to add an individual to your policy. Have your payment method ready at this time.