Not exactly. Of your landlord’s many responsibilities, covering your losses typically isn't one of them. But that's why renters insurance exists: to protect renters from natural disasters, stolen property, and anything in between.
"Landlords strongly recommend—and in most cases, require—that their tenants purchase renters insurance.
Think renters insurance is a frivolous expense? Think again. Here are the most compelling reasons why you should have a renters insurance policy.
1. Renters insurance is inexpensive
The amount you pay for renters insurance ultimately depends on where you live—but it’s only a drop in the bucket compared with how much you'll spend on rent in a year.
“The average renters insurance policy could cost under $150 per year for $30,000 of property coverage and $100,000 of liability coverage.”  “This is a relatively small price to pay to ensure your personal belongings are protected.”
That’s why Carriene Porter at Precision Realty & Associates, says she always recommends renters insurance to clients after they sign a lease whether or not the building requires it.
Renters insurance is a no-brainer because it’s so cheap, yet it covers so much.” 
She says the payout could be in the thousands if something happens to your belongings.
2. Your landlord's insurance won't cover you
It’s a common misconception that, in the event of a fire or flood, your landlord’s insurance will cover your belongings.
“The truth is that a landlord's coverage does not extend to the personal property of their tenants,”  a licensed real estate salesperson at Precision Realty & Associates. “So, if your neighbor across the hall leaves a candle burning and a fire spreads and damages your home, replacing your electronics, clothes, and furniture is strictly your financial responsibility.”
Or, suppose there’s an issue with a burst pipe.
“If the water damages your possessions, you won’t get any compensation for your belongings through the landlord's policy.” “Your landlord will only have to pay to repair the pipe, not for the damage that it caused to your possessions.”
The same can be said if someone breaks into your home. Let’s say someone kicks in your door, and steals your belongings.
“Your landlord will only be liable to pay for the damages the burglar caused to the property—like the broken door—but you won’t get any compensation for the belongings that were stolen.” 
So without renters insurance, you’re on your own to replace your valuables.
3. It protects you against personal liability
Renters insurance doesn't cover just you; it also covers what could happen to someone else.
“It would protect you against personal liability for the injury you cause to someone else because of negligence,” according to Hank Wilson, founder of Wilson Insurance and Financial Planning in Philadelphia.
For example, let's say someone slips and falls inside your home and takes legal action against you. Your renters insurance could help cover any liability.
But your liability isn’t limited to you and your immediate surroundings.
“This would include your pets or even your children causing harm to someone due to negligence,” Wilson says. “Your renters policy would even provide coverage for damage you accidentally cause to someone else’s property elsewhere.”
We are Ready to Help! When you’re working with real estate professionals like Carriene Porter at Precision Realty & Associates, you’re guaranteed to get the expertise and advice you need. 
Not quite ready to buy a home?  You may qualify for the Lease with a Right to Purchase program.  Call me and I'll give you the details on how you may qualify to get into the home you want, get settled and then purchase it when you are ready! If you prefer a more personal touch, CALL 801-809-9866 today.  


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