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Whether you live in a rental home, condo, apartment, or townhome chances are you’ve wondered whether or not your landlord is responsible for your property if anything is damaged or stolen. First, start by reviewing your lease because this is a legally binding document outlining everything from the rental start date to damages to the property. Chances are high that your lease will absolve the property owner of any responsibility for your belongings.
While this may not be the news that you want to read, there are a couple of reasons why it is the case. First, the property – as outlined by your lease – is rented to you for a specific duration of time which means that whether it is for 6 months or 12 months you have possession and control of the space – not the landlord. As a result, the possessions within that space are under your control and ownership. Second, generally speaking, in order to insure an item you need to have ownership of it like a car, musical instrument, or pet which would absolve the landlord of responsibility because the items belong to you not them.
Luckily, it doesn’t all have to be doom and gloom because with rental insurance your personal belongings are covered from damage, theft, and other incidents. Although policies can vary, a typical renters’ insurance policy will include coverage of personal property, liability, and additional living expenses if you have to move out of the space due to the damage. Keep in mind that renters’ insurance does not cover the actual property and accidental or purposeful damage to the place being rented is still a liability. For specific questions and assistance in purchasing a policy, give Berks County Insurance in Reading, PA a call for a no-obligation consultation where our friendly team of insurance professionals are ready to answer all your questions.
