By Debra Meeks


Tenants typically are most concerned with ensuring they are getting the best deal with regards to rent and deposit requirements. However, it is just as important for renters to have renter's insurance. This protects your financial investment in all of your personal belongings and is a wise financial decision.

Though your landlord is responsible for insuring the property itself this only covers the land and the building. The insurance to cover your personal property in the event of theft or disaster is up to you.

Your landlord's insurance isn't intended to cover any of your personal stuff. So you see why in the event of a fire, theft or flood it is absolutely mandatory to be able to benefit from an insurance policy.

Rental insurance is meant specifically to cover all your furniture and belongings in the event of theft or disaster. If you do a quick inventory of your personal items, you can see how valuable this insurance can be to protect them from a negative occurrence.

Renter's insurance policies typically cover items that are stolen or damaged through named perils. The vast majority of policies will cover damage to your property from perils such as fire, smoke, water or vandalism. Earthquakes may be covered as well.

To get the best coverage you will want to consider a policy that gives replacement value for your belongings. This will give you the most money because depreciation does not play a factor and you will be able to replace all your lost or damaged items.

Most renter's insurance policies will cover items that are in a typical household, such as clothes, books, household goods and the like. If you have unusual items, such as a stamp collection, extensive jewelry or furs, you may need to add them as listed items onto the policy. Generally anything with a value can, and should be, insured.

Obviously, like any insurance policy, there are different levels of coverage. Some more comprehensive policies even include coverage if someone is injured while at your home. So do your research and decide the best policy for you.




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