Top 5 Myths About Landlord Insurance
As a landlord, renting property that you own can be stressful when trying to protect it... especially when you're not actually living in it. There are several myths about landlord insurance that can add to your stress level and cause even more confusion. Here are the top 5 myths debunked to help you better protect your investment:
Myth #1
As long as I have landlord insurance on my rental property, my tenants don't need renters insurance. While it's great that you have insurance to protect your rental property, your tenants still need insurance to protect their personal belongings that they bring with them. And an interesting data point is that tenants who purchase insurance for their own belongings are more likely to help safeguard your property. There is no federal or state law that requires tenants to have renter's insurance, but as a landlord, it's within your legal rights to require this as part of the rental agreement.
Myth #2
My personal homeowners insurance will cover my rental property. In most cases, your personal homeowners insurance policy only covers owner-occupied homes. That means it only covers the home in which you personally live in. Once you turn your property into a full-time rental property, you need a landlord insurance policy to protect your investment.
Myth #3
My property is insured, even if my tenants take a long vacation. Many landlord insurance policies impose restrictions on just how long a property can stay vacant while still remaining covered. The reality is that unoccupied homes pose a greater risk to burglary and vandalism. Your tenants should notify you in advance if they are planning on an extended vacation where the home will be unoccupied. You should check with your insurance company to confirm that you are covered, or if you need to consider purchasing extended coverage.
Myth #4
If my tenants stop paying rent for any reason, my landlord insurance policy will cover it. A landlord policy usually covers loss of rental income/rental default but only when the dwelling is unfit to live in due to a covered event.
Myth #5
I'm renting my home to a family member, so I don't need landlord insurance. Renting to a family member may help you feel more secure that you won't experience legal claims or loss of rental income. But the structure still needs to be protected against situations that are out of your control. If you value your investment property, you'd be wise to make sure it's properly insured.
Owning investment property can be financially satisfying, but also challenging as you deal with maintaining the property, fixing and repairing damage, and having bad tenants. Understanding how landlord insurance works - and purchasing a policy that protects your investment - provides one less thing to worry about.
How to purchase a Landlord policy from Stillwater:
- Online: It's quick and easy. We ask a few questions and you'll have a quote in two minutes. You can purchase the policy instantly.
- Call us at (855) 712-4092. Our licensed reps are available Monday through Friday from 8am-9pm ET, and 8am-3pm ET on Saturday.
- Visit a local independent agent. Click here to find an agent near you.