The type of homeowners insurance a tiny-home owner needs depends on the type of tiny home they own.

Stationary tiny home

Insurers usually cover tiny homes that remain in one place under a mobile and manufactured home policy. These offer all the basics of homeowners insurance, including protection for the structure and all personal belongings inside. They also offer liability protection for the homeowner.

If a tiny-home dweller decides to move their home, they’ll need a special transit endorsement to ensure that the tiny house is covered during the move. It’s also worth noting that insurers may refuse to cover these types of tiny homes if the owner moves them frequently.

Tiny homes on wheels

Tiny homes on wheels that are certified by the RVIA are technically considered to be RVs, so they’d need an RV insurance policy. This provides coverage for the tiny home and its contents while it is moving and while stationary.

However, not all RV policies are the same. Some are only designed for short-term vacation use. Those who live in their tiny homes year-round should look for an RV insurance policy that covers full-time residents.

DIY tiny homes

Tiny homes that the owner built from scratch are the most difficult to insure. Many popular insurers refuse to cover them outright unless they’re certified by the NOAH or the RVIA. However, there are some specialty insurers that cover homes without these certifications.