WHY DO I NEED RENTERS INSURANCE IN OHIO?

As a renter – especially in Ohio -- you’ve got it pretty good: No property taxes, no lawn cutting, no roof repairs, no flooded basements and no snow removal. If you’re like most renters, purchasing renters insurance isn’t even on your radar. Conversely, perhaps your landlord requires it. But think about this….

What would you do if you returned from work or a vacation and all your possessions in your apartment had been destroyed by a fire? Or if there were a break-in and some of your most expensive stuff was stolen?

You may think that the building owner’s insurance would take care of all the damage caused by a fire.

It doesn’t.

Your building owner is only required to carry insurance for the structure. Usually, covering everything outside “your walls” is their responsibility, while everything inside is yours to cover and protect.

This means all your furniture, electronics, appliances, clothing, and jewelry are uninsured unless you purchase a renters insurance policy.

HOW DOES OHIO RENTERS INSURANCE WORK TO REPLACE MY STUFF?

If you’ve considered it all, you might think that the “stuff” you have accumulated isn’t worth that much. It may or may not be worth anything from a dollar amount, but that’s very different compared to how much it would cost you to replace it. Buying a new bedroom set, clothing or a computer can cost much more than you think.

You’ll be surprised at how affordable renters insurance can be. Besides covering all your stuff, it covers you from being held liable if someone hurts themselves while they’re in your home. So, in the unfortunate event you’re sued, and the judgment goes against you, the renters policy will cover you, up to the policy limits.

DO YOU NEED RENTERS INSURANCE?

According to recent estimates, nearly two-thirds of the 81 million people who rent their homes and apartments are uninsured for their contents, or for any liability arising out of their tenancy.

First, do the math and add up how much it would cost to replace your belongings.

Second, check the terms of your lease, and verify if carrying a renters policy is required by your landlord.

Third, request a renters insurance quote to verify just how affordable it is to protect your belongings from perils like theft, vandalism, fire, and falling objects.

WHAT ELSE IS COVERED?

Renters insurance can cover virtually all your personal possessions. Most policies provide coverage for electronic goods and equipment, small appliances, sports equipment, cameras and photography equipment, furniture, clothing, glassware, china and books. Other items, such as computers, jewelry, furs, watercraft and firearms, can also be covered with extended protection. Your renters insurance policy may include:

• Personal property protection

• Family liability protection

• Guest medical protection

• Additional living expenses

• Additional protection

• Temporary housing

Liability protection for people on your property

Again, we encourage all renters – that means you -- to spend just five minutes with a calculator to add up the cost of replacing everything you own. What if you came home tomorrow and your apartment had burned down? Where would you go? How would you pay to replace your clothing, furniture and appliances? When you ask yourself what renters insurance covers, you can relax and say yes to all of the above.

Can I Transfer My Renters Insurance to My New Apartment?

You can transfer your renters insurance to your new apartment, but it requires notifying your insurance provider about the move. Contact your insurer as soon as you know your new address and moving date. They will update your policy to reflect the new location and ensure that your coverage continues without interruption. It’s important to review your policy details during this process, as the new apartment might have different risk factors that could affect your coverage needs or premiums. By keeping your insurer informed, you can maintain protection for your belongings and liability coverage in your new home.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Theft?

Renters insurance typically covers theft. This means that if your personal belongings are stolen, whether from your apartment or elsewhere, your policy can help reimburse you for the loss. Coverage usually includes items like electronics, clothing and furniture. However, it’s important to review your policy details, as there may be limits on certain high-value items, such as jewelry or collectibles. In such cases, you might need additional coverage or endorsements. Always report the theft to the police and your insurance provider promptly to ensure a smooth claims process. Renters insurance provides peace of mind by protecting your possessions against theft and other covered perils.

Can I Cancel My Renters Insurance?

You can cancel your renters insurance at any time, but it’s important to understand the process and any potential consequences. To cancel, contact your insurance provider and inform them of your decision. They may require a written notice or a completed cancellation form. Be aware that some insurers might charge a cancellation fee or have specific terms regarding refunds for any unused premium. Additionally, consider the risks of being without coverage, as renters insurance can financially protect your personal belongings and offer liability coverage. If you plan to switch to a new policy, ensure there is no gap in coverage to maintain continuous protection.

WE WE'RE DIFFERENT

While policies for renters insurance, car insurance, motorcycle insurance and just about anything you can think of insuring is widely available, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.

It’s important to choose an insurance agent – like The Insurance Pad -- who will listen to you, take time to answer your questions and make sure you understand what you need covered, why you need it covered and how we help structure a policy that is accurate and appropriate for your needs.

Plus, we like to get to know our customers and let you know about us. Where else will you find agents who follow The Golden Rule of treating others how we want to be treated and love to talk sports, cooking and insurance??? Check out our Cooking with Insurance blog to see what we’re all about.

And please, if you have questions about renters insurance or any type of insurance, contact us today, and we'll help you protect what matters most.