Is Fire Damage Covered By Renters Insurance?

6/3/2021 (Permalink)

Fire damage in Acworth, GA.

Tenants have the option to insure their possessions against fire damage by obtaining renters insurance. Find out more about this coverage to select the right policy.

What Renters Policies Cover

Renter's policies only cover damage to the contents of a rented domicile, namely the personal possessions of the named insured. This coverage can apply to a wide range of items:

• Clothes
• Furniture
• Electronic
• Personal possessions

Review the terms of a policy to make sure the amount of coverage is sufficient to compensate for replacement costs rather than actual cash value with depreciation. A small amount of additional coverage may also be available for liability. It is a good idea to make note of any requirements for obtaining coverage or filing a claim.

Limits and Other Coverage

Renters should make sure that the limit of a policy is high enough to account for the total value of the contents of a residence. Renters insurance policies are not intended to cover damage to building materials or any appliances or fixtures that belong to the landlord or property owner. If these materials or items sustain damage or are destroyed, these losses should be covered by the property insurance policy. It is the responsibility of the property owner or manager to arrange for fire restoration.

Making a Claim

After a fire damages the contents of a rental property, a tenant should document the damage and try to gather and provide receipts or other proof of purchase. Lists of damaged and destroyed content can make it easier to arrange for content cleaning or replace losses.

A tenant should take the time to carefully review the terms and limitations of any renters insurance policy. In the event of fire damage to the contents of an apartment or rental house in Acworth, GA, this coverage can help to offset the costs of professional content cleaning or replacement.