How Does Renters Insurance Work with Pets?

Renters insurance is designed to protect your family and your assets from various dangers. But how does renters insurance work with your pets? Does this type of policy cover a new puppy or cat? a close up of a dog

In short, renters insurance does cover certain areas when it comes to your pets.

Are Pets Considered Property Under Renters Insurance?

Some insurance policies consider pets property for compensation purposes. Renters insurance is not one of these policies. If your pet is suddenly injured, falls ill or passes away, any expenses related to the incident will not be covered under renters insurance. Instead, you should file a claim with your pet insurance, if you have it.

Renters Liability Insurance with Pets

The main part of renters insurance that concerns your pet is liability insurance. Liability insurance covers bodily injury and property damage that may occur on your property, but it can also cover accidents you or a family member cause off of the property. For example, say you are on a walk with your dog aggressive dog. A neighbor’s dog gets loose and draws to close. Your dog attacks the other pet and kills it. As long as you have a renters insurance policy, this accident should be covered under your renters insurance policy.

This insurance can cover the medical bills another may face as well as legal fees in case of a lawsuit. So if the owner of the other dog in this situation sues for damages, liability under renters insurance can help you with expenses such as defense costs, court fees, settlement expenses and more.

Pet Exclusions Under Renters Insurance

As with most insurance policies, there are certain exclusions when it comes to pets under renters insurance. Most insurers will not cover exotic pets such as birds, pigs and reptiles. There are also certain breeds of dogs that are commonly excluded from renters insurance.

Dog breeds are excluded based on their risk level. Breeds that are considered “higher risk” for destructive behaviors may cost more to insure or be excluded from coverage completely. Commonly excluded dog breeds include huskies, German shepherds, pit bulls and Dobermans.

Also keep in mind that renters insurance does not cover damages your pet may cause to your own personal belongings. If your dog chews up an expensive pair of your shoes, renters insurance will not cover this. However, if your pet chews up a visitor’s shoes, this should be covered under renters insurance.

How Does Renters Insurance Work with Pets?

No Comments