I recently discussed in the past on my blog that everyone who rents an apartment or a house should have renter’s insurance. A landlord’s insurance will only cover what a landlord owns, and will be limited to the land and the physical structures on the land. Any of your personal property, will not be covered by your landlord’s insurance company.

I would note that damage from an earthquake or flood will likely not be covered. In fact, any hazard that is not specifically mentioned, like water damage from faulty plumbing, if it is not specifically stated in your policy, will not be covered. In addition, if you own something valuable, like jewelry, artwork or antiques, you will need additional insurance specifically covering the special item.

People often ask how much renter’s insurance should they purchase. The answer depends on how valuable are your personal belongings. $2,000 would be sufficient for some people, while $100,000 would not be enough for others. You might want to do some research into how much your possessions are worth before you determine how much renter’s insurance you need. Some possessions, like antiques, may require an appraisal.

In addition, you may want to inventory your most valuable possessions. It would be helpful if you took photos and kept purchase receipts. The inventory should be kept outside your home so they are not destroyed by whatever happened to the rest of your belongings.

Renter’s insurance is well worth the cost should something happen to your home.

Heather La Dieu

Email: hladieu@mcvlaw.com

Phone: 315-471-1664

Heather R. La Dieu has been an associate in Meggesto, Crossett & Valerino, LLP’s Litigation Department since 2001.  Ms. La Dieu focuses her practice primarily in personal injury cases involving motor vehicle accidents, premises liability, construction accidents, municipal liability, wrongful death and products liability.  Ms. La Dieu also practices in the area of insurance law, contract law and criminal defense.

Ms. La Dieu is a graduate of Syracuse University where she earned her B.S. in Chemical Engineering and received her J.D. at Syracuse University College of Law.

Ms. La Dieu is admitted to the New York State Bar, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District and the Supreme Court of the United States of America.  Ms. La Dieu is a member of the Onondaga County Bar Association, New York Bar Association and Central New York State Women’s Bar Association.  Ms. La Dieu also has arbitrated for the Syracuse City Court Arbitration Program.