Ignite FB Tracking PixelRenters insurance for pets: Understanding what's covered - Tabatha Polley
Town & Country, Keller Williams Realty
Town & Country, Keller Williams Realty
Tabatha Polley, Town & Country, Keller Williams RealtyPhone: (214) 663-7991
Email: [email protected]

Renters insurance for pets: Understanding what's covered

by Tabatha Polley 05/17/2023

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
Author

Tabatha Polley

My Real Estate career began in 2008! Coming from a finance background I knew this was something I could take far, & in 2012 I opened up Town & Country Realtors through Keller Williams in Aubrey! I have served on the Agent Leadership Council & have been a Top Producer for multiple years with Keller Williams and Town & Country Realtors. I now have 3 buyers agent's that work under me and I am loving every minute of teaching them and learning new things from them as well.  

I specialize in assisting clients who are looking to sell or buy property in the North Texas area or it's surrounding areas. I have a comprehensive understanding of the market & am skillful in strategic pricing & marketing.