Renters insurance for pets: What's covered?
Animal lovers renting property might wonder whether they have coverage in their renters insurance for pets. What if your furry friend causes damage to your rental, or causes another resident bodily harm? These are just a few common questions your policy can answer.
Renters insurance coverage for pets
Many renters insurance policies include pet liability coverage. This coverage typically includes both bodily injury liability and property damage liability.
One important exception can be dog bites. Most renters insurance will cover a dog bite under the bodily injury coverage, but many policies include exceptions for certain dog breeds. Check your policy details carefully to determine whether your dog is covered, or if you need supplemental coverage.
How renters insurance can protect you & your pet
Through the bodily and property damage liability coverage, renters insurance can help you if you’re liable for a variety of situations. Injuries caused by your pets would be covered, as would personal property damage caused by your pet - with exceptions.
While your policy might cover damage for some things, it may have specific pet-related addendums. For example, it’s common for rental policies to include exceptions for damage caused by urine stains and odor, especially if it means replacing the carpet.
Adding pets to a renters insurance policy
Before getting a quote for a renter's insurance policy, you’ll usually be asked to provide info about your pets or other animals you keep in your home. If you have an existing policy and need to add a new pet, you can contact your insurance company to find out next steps.
Renters insurance vs pet insurance
The key difference between pet liability coverage in your renter’s insurance and pet insurance is only the latter is meant to protect the actual pet. Pet insurance can help recoup the cost of vet bills if your pet is sick or injured, but not if they ruin the carpet in your condo.
Regardless of whether you live in or own a rental property, this information is important for every pet owner to know.
About the Author
Cheryl Pendenza - Realtor®/Broker Associate
Bringing more than 30 years of experience to the table, Cheryl has a paralegal degree, banking background, and is a member of many professional, civic, and community organizations.
Qualified • Experienced • Skilled
"As a full-time Real Estate Broker, I am dedicated to providing my clients with a high level of service by building relationships, marketing, and negotiating on their behalf. As a homeowner, I realize how important homeownership is.
Cheryl brings warmth and compassion to her client relationships and referrals have become the backbone of her business. "I’m grateful for every referral and welcome the opportunity to help clients achieve their real estate goals.”
Cheryl Pendenza, Broker Associate affiliated with RE/MAX Andrew Realty Services since 1999 is a local businesswoman and formidable negotiator who can help you achieve your real estate goals. Supporting family, community and local business is important to Cheryl and she can often be found at one of the local restaurants, shops, or galleries.
