Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover the Damages Caused by Renters If I Rent My Home?

When you are ready to move but are unable or unable to sell your home, renting it may seem like a viable alternative. Regarding your insurance coverage, you may encounter a potential pitfall. Your standard homeowner's insurance coverage likely does not cover damage caused by tenants.

The Security Deposit Paid by Your Tenant

Typically, if your tenant causes damage to your property, you would use his security deposit to cover the costs. This is the purpose of security deposits, which can also cover less costly issues. You would only file a claim with your insurance carrier in the event of a catastrophe, such as if your tenant burned down your home, drove his truck into your living room, or left the bathtub running, drowning the property. You will need insurance to cover the price of repairs that exceed the tenant security deposit.

Your Homeowners Insurance

If you rent your property, your homeowner's insurance coverage will likely not cover major repairs. Your homeowner's insurance policy was likely obtained under the idea that you will be residing in the home. Review your insurance or contact the employer for confirmation. It is preferable to know beforehand that you need to modify coverage, as opposed to finding out when you submit a claim and it is denied.

Rental Insurance

If you rent your home, you must obtain landlord's insurance, also as rental home insurance. A simple rental insurance policy will protect you if a fire is caused by a tenant. Extensive insurance cover specific risks, such as if your tenant's girlfriend vandalizes the property in retaliation. The finest plans cover everything except what they expressly excluded from coverage. As with any insurance, the more coverage you desire will increase your premiums. On the good side, these plans cover more than simply damages caused by humans. Typically, they cover natural calamities and things like trees falling on your property, just like your homeowner's policy would if you lived there.

Extra Coverage

Most insurance providers will allow you to purchase supplemental coverage to meet the risks associated with renting a house. For instance, protective policies can insure you against the breakdown of furnaces and hot water heaters. You cannot reasonably expect your tenant to live without these items, and it is your responsibility to replace or repair them. If you don't have additional coverage, you'll have to pay for it yourself. You can also purchase coverage for loss of rental revenue if the damage to your house is so severe that it cannot be rented out while it is being repaired.