This is one of the most common questions renters ask, and it’s an important one. On the surface, it might feel like your landlord’s insurance should be enough—after all, they own the property. But here’s the truth: your landlord’s policy usually covers only the building itself, not your personal belongings or liability. That means if disaster strikes, you could be left paying thousands of dollars out of pocket without renters insurance.

So let’s break this down, step by step, and explore why renters insurance is so valuable.

What does my landlord’s insurance actually cover?

Your landlord’s insurance protects their investment—the structure of the building. This includes the walls, roof, plumbing, and sometimes permanent fixtures like built-in appliances. It’s designed to make sure the property can be repaired or rebuilt after a loss.

What it doesn’t cover is your stuff. If a fire, theft, or water damage destroys your furniture, electronics, or clothing, your landlord’s policy won’t replace them. That’s where renters insurance comes in.

Can you give me an example?

Sure. Imagine there’s a kitchen fire in your apartment. The landlord’s insurance will pay for repairs to the walls, ceiling, and cabinets. But your burnt sofa, bed, TV, and laptop? Those losses fall on you—unless you have renters insurance.

Or let’s say someone breaks into your unit and steals your valuables. The landlord’s policy won’t reimburse you. Renters insurance, however, can step in to cover the cost of replacing those stolen items.

What else does renters insurance cover?

A typical renters insurance policy provides three main protections:

1. Personal Property Coverage – This reimburses you for your belongings if they’re stolen, damaged, or destroyed by covered events like fire, smoke, or vandalism.
2. Liability Coverage – If someone gets hurt in your apartment and you’re found responsible, or if you accidentally cause damage to another unit (like an overflowing tub that leaks downstairs), liability coverage helps pay for medical bills or repairs.
3. Additional Living Expenses – If your rental becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss, renters insurance can help pay for temporary housing, hotel stays, or meals while repairs are made.

So it’s not just about protecting your stuff—it’s about protecting yourself, too.

Does renters insurance cover items outside my apartment?

Yes! Many renters policies cover your belongings even when they’re not physically inside your unit. For example, if your laptop is stolen from your car, or your luggage is lost on a trip, you may still be covered up to certain limits.

That extra layer of protection is something your landlord’s insurance could never provide.

What about liability—why does that matter?

Liability coverage is one of the most overlooked but valuable parts of renters insurance. Without it, you could be personally responsible for expensive claims.

Let’s say a guest slips on your rug, breaks their wrist, and sues you. Or maybe you leave a candle burning and it starts a fire that damages several apartments. Without renters insurance, those costs would come out of your own pocket. With a policy, your liability coverage helps pay for damages, legal fees, or settlements.

Does renters insurance cover everything?

Not quite. Like all insurance, there are exclusions. Standard renters insurance typically doesn’t cover:

• Flood damage
• Earthquake damage
• Pest infestations (like bedbugs or termites)
• Extremely high-value items unless scheduled separately

If you live in an area prone to floods or earthquakes, KMO Insurance can help you explore separate policies or endorsements. And if you own jewelry, collectibles, or expensive electronics, you can add extra coverage so they’re fully protected.

Is renters insurance expensive?

Here’s the good news: renters insurance is one of the most affordable types of insurance you can buy. Policies often cost between $15 and $30 per month—less than a night out at a restaurant.

Think about it this way: could you replace everything you own—clothes, electronics, furniture, kitchenware, and more—if disaster struck tomorrow? For most renters, the answer is no. Renters insurance gives you that financial safety net for just a few dollars a week.

What’s the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost?

This is a key point when choosing coverage.

• Actual Cash Value (ACV) reimburses you for the depreciated value of your belongings. For example, if your five-year-old TV is stolen, you’d get what it’s worth today, not the cost of a new one.
• Replacement Cost coverage pays what it would take to buy a brand-new TV of similar kind and quality.

Replacement cost coverage is slightly more expensive but usually worth it for the extra protection.

Can roommates share one renters insurance policy?

Sometimes. Some insurers allow roommates to be listed on the same policy, but it’s often better for each person to have their own. Shared policies can lead to complications during claims, and dividing coverage isn’t always straightforward. Having your own policy ensures your belongings and liability are fully protected.

What mistakes do renters make when it comes to insurance?

Here are a few of the most common:

• Assuming the landlord’s insurance covers their belongings.
• Underestimating how much their stuff is worth.
• Forgetting to update their policy when they move.
• Choosing a deductible that’s too high.
• Not bundling policies (renters + auto), which can save money.

At KMO Insurance, we help our clients avoid these pitfalls by tailoring coverage to their real needs.

So, why do I need renters insurance if my landlord already has insurance?

Because your landlord’s insurance protects their property, not yours. Without renters insurance, you’re vulnerable to losses that could cost thousands of dollars—whether it’s replacing your belongings, covering liability, or paying for temporary housing. For a small monthly premium, you can have peace of mind knowing you’re protected.

Final Thoughts

Renters insurance isn’t just an optional extra—it’s an essential layer of protection. Your landlord’s policy stops at the walls. Renters insurance covers everything that makes your space a home, plus liability coverage that shields you from unexpected costs.

At KMO Insurance, we specialize in helping renters choose the right policy at the right price. Whether you’re moving into your first apartment or have rented for years, we’ll make sure you’re covered.

Ready to get started? Contact KMO Insurance today for a free renters insurance quote and take the first step toward protecting what matters most.