How Much Renters Insurance Do You Need?

When it comes to renters insurance, you don’t want too much or too little. Use these guidelines to determine how much renters insurance you really need and what type of policy you should get.

How much renters insurance is too much? Do you ever really know?

Renters insurance is a very important purchase. Without it, your possessions would be at the mercy of criminals and potential natural disasters. Some apartment complexes do not allow tenants to live at the facility without renters insurance, so it’s essential that you get at least a basic package if you plan to live there.

If you want to know how much renters insurance you really need and what type of policy you should get, you will find helpful information below.

Know the Value of Your Belongings

The best way to know how much renters insurance you need is to inventory your belongings to get a total value for all of your things.

There’s no sense in subscribing to an insurance plan that provides coverage for well beyond what you need. Add up the estimated value of your televisions, computers, furniture, accessories, etc. If it has value, then it should be covered under the insurance policy.

Once you have an estimated value for your things, you can use that to subscribe to a plan that will provide enough coverage.

Understand the Natural Disaster Policy

Every renters insurance policy is different and it’s important to have coverage against natural disasters. Fires, floods, or even hurricanes are prime examples of natural disasters you need protection from.

However, some insurance companies require a second policy in order to cover your belongings for such occasions. Be sure to review the policy and understand it thoroughly before you make any decisions.

Remember Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is often part of a renters insurance plan. It provides protection if someone is injured in your home.

For instance, you could own an aggressive animal, you might have a pool at your home, or you could serve alcohol at your home. All of these things are examples of situations where injuries are possible. If someone does happen to get injured, you need liability insurance to help cover the costs of a lawsuit.

Medical Coverage

Medical coverage is usually coupled with liability insurance, but it’s an important part of the plan.

If someone is injured in your home and they have medical bills due to their injuries, your renters insurance plan can help cover those costs. A good plan generally provides between $100,000 and $300,000 in medical expense coverage.

After evaluating some of the conditions above, you can effectively determine whether or not your renters insurance plan provides enough coverage. If you want your things to be fully protected, you must purchase a more advanced policy. Typically, the more money you spend, the better the coverage.

However, overpaying for renters insurance is a waste of money and a burden on your financial well-being. It’s a good idea to pick a renters insurance plan that provides just the right level of coverage for you and your family.

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Reviewed January 2024