According to a recent study, about 85 million American families own some kind of pet. So if If you're a landlord who is renting out one or possibly multiple properties, chances are at least one of your renters will have a pet. So should you require renters insurance with pet coverage as a lease condition?
Renter's insurance with pet coverage is a worthwhile investment. It can provide peace of mind for both the tenant and the landlord. The tenant knows their personal property is protected, and the landlord knows that if the tenant's pet causes any damage or injury, they will be covered.
So, if you're looking for more information on this topic, keep reading as we cover what you need to know in this brief guide.
What Is Renters Insurance With Pet Coverage?
Rental property insurance is a financial policy that covers the tenant's personal property and liability. Some policies also include additional living expenses; however, this will be constrained to the predetermined coverage limits applicable to your policy.
Personal Property
This covers the tenant's personal belongings such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. If your loss exceeds your coverage limit, the insurance company won't cover the amount over.
Liability
Liability protection covers accidental damage to someone else's belongings or property. It also includes medical bills if you are held accountable for any injuries a guest may sustain.
Additional Living Expenses
If the damage to the property is extensive enough that your tenants require alternative temporary accommodation, the additional living expenses coverage type will handle those costs. However, it will not cover any expenses related to the damaged building.
Pet Liability Coverage
Typically, coverage for any injuries or property damage to others caused by the pet is covered under the Liability clause. However, some policies exclude certain perceived aggressive dog breeds and exotic pets. It would be wise to do some research before committing.
The average cost of renter's insurance is around $168 per year. This estimate is based on $30,000 in personal property coverage and $100,000 in liability coverage.
Pet coverage under renter's insurance should not be confused with pet insurance. Pet insurance is a separate policy covering medical bills related to the tenant's pet.
Can I Add It to the Lease?
If you're a landlord with one or many rental properties, you may be wondering if you can insist on your tenant's taking out renter's insurance with pet coverage if they have pets on the property.
Well, the short answer is yes. While it's not required by law, adding a "renters insurance with pet coverage" clause in the rental property management lease is legal. It's ultimately a contractual agreement between two consenting parties.
Most states in America will allow this condition; however, there are a few exceptions. For example, Oklahoma has chosen to opt-out and expressly outlaws the practice.
In other states like Virginia, landlords are permitted to require tenants to carry renters insurance. Landlords also have the option of charging tenants via fees for this insurance.
There are also cities with rent control, such as San Francisco and New York. This might limit the amount that landlords can charge renters for insurance.
Less Work, More Free Time
Hopefully, we've covered the basics around renters insurance with pet coverage. This should make it easier for you to decide if you want to add a pet coverage clause in your rental property lease.
However, managing leases for any property you might be renting out can be a tedious job. Thankfully, we are here to help. By coordinating maintenance, collecting rent, and handling tenant issues, we give you more time to do what you love.
If you're in Salt Lake City, Utah, contact us for single and multi-family property management, portfolio management, and tenant placement.
