Every Landlord Should Have Rental Property Insurance

Becoming a landlord is quite an undertaking because it entails wearing many hats. The individual must know how to make common repairs and quickly get up to speed regarding tenant-landlord rights and responsibilities. One of the first things a new landlord should do is obtain landlord's rental property insurance.

The benefits of insuring a rented dwelling include protecting the structure against damage and protecting the landlord in cases of legal or personal liability. The policy covers the rented structure, other private buildings including a shed or garage, and any personal items that are stored on the premises or provided by the landlord. A landlord can purchase a policy for various structures such as a single or multi-family building or a condominium.

This policy provides protection such as loss of rental income, liability, legal defense costs, court fees, as well as additional optional coverage. The liability provision provides the landlord with protection from bodily injury and property damage lawsuits. Some policies offer medical expense coverage for individuals injured on the premises. Liability, property damage, and medical expense claims can be costly, so this coverage is something that every landlord should have.

Disaster can strike at any time, making the structure uninhabitable on either a permanent or temporary basis. Landlords who rely on rental income know that the last thing they want to worry about is how to pay their own bills if this cash flow ceases. Coverage for loss of rental income provides restitution to the landlord while the structure is repaired or rebuilt. Optional coverage, like water backup protection, is offered by some carriers. Water backup provisions protect landlords when the home or contents sustain damage resulting from water that backs up into the property.

If a lawsuit is filed by a tenant or visitor, the landlord can face many out of pocket expenses. Some carriers provide financial assistance for attorney fees, legal document fees, and other lawsuit-related expenses. It is helpful to have a carrier that is always reachable via telephone should an emergency, claim situation, or lawsuit-related question arise. When the structure is burning, the landlord does not want to wait until morning to file a claim.

Rental property insurance provides a level of financial protection that a landlord should not do without. It includes provisions for items such as liability, loss of rental income, legal defense, and court costs. Optional items like water backup coverage and extended policy limits are also available. Knowing that the rented property and he or she are covered provides the landlord with a feeling of security.