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Renters insurance is a policy that protects tenants from financial losses related to personal property, liability and additional living expenses. A common misconception is that a landlord’s insurance will cover a tenant’s belongings, but in most cases, it protects only the building itself and not what’s inside your unit, per Allstate.

One of the biggest reasons renters go without coverage is money, but it’s often more affordable than people assume. “One common misconception is that renters insurance is prohibitively expensive. However, data suggests otherwise. In 2021, the average annual premium for renters insurance in the U.S. was $170, approximately $14 per month,” said Ryan Nelson, founder of Property Build.

Renters insurance can be a smart financial move for a relatively small monthly investment. Here are some of the benefits of having renters insurance so you can have a clear understanding of why it might be worth the cost.

Also see four times it’s smarter to rent instead of buy a home.

Protects Your Belongings From Theft, Fire and Disasters

Renters insurance covers personal items like furniture, electronics and clothing if they’re damaged or stolen due to events like fire, theft or vandalism. For example, if a fire destroys your apartment, your policy may help cover the cost of replacing your belongings.

“[I’ve] seen many situations where renters have had unplanned disasters — fire or water damage, for example — and then regretted not purchasing renters insurance,” said Andreis Bergeron, vice president of sales at RedAwning.

He recalled one instance in particular in which “a renter experienced a disastrous burst pipe that destroyed personal property and forced them to contend with unforeseen repair costs,” which, he said, proves that “even a small premium can save consumers big money when the unexpected occurs.”

Pays for Temporary Housing If You’re Displaced

If your home becomes unlivable due to a covered event, renters insurance may cover the cost of a hotel or temporary housing while repairs are made. This safety net can be crucial in times of crisis.

Nelson shared the experience of a single mother whose rental home caught fire and destroyed all her belongings. Without renters insurance, “she was left to rely on community support and fundraising efforts to rebuild her life,” he said.

Covers Your Belongings Even Outside Your Home

Many policies extend coverage to personal belongings even when you’re away from home. If your laptop is stolen from your car or a bag is taken while you’re traveling, renters insurance may reimburse you.

This type of protection is especially valuable for people who are often on the go.

It’s Often Required by Landlords

Many landlords now require tenants to carry renters insurance as a condition of the lease. It helps protect both parties from potential liability claims.

If you’re signing a new lease, check whether proof of insurance is part of the move-in requirements. You don’t want to be caught breaking the lease and incurring unexpected penalties.

Offers Affordable Protection Compared With Potential Losses

For just a few dollars a month, renters insurance can save you thousands in the event of theft, fire or a lawsuit. The value becomes especially clear when things go wrong.

One renter shared their story with Nelson, saying, “We lost our computers, tablets, my coin collection, money, etc. The tragedy was that we didn’t have renters insurance, so there we were with no gear and no insurance money to replace what we had lost.”

“This modest investment can provide peace of mind and financial protection against unforeseen events,” Nelson said.

Is It Worth It?

For most renters, the answer is yes. For a low price, renters insurance offers broad protection that can far outweigh the cost. Real-life examples show how quickly the unexpected can happen and how costly it can be without coverage.

Renters insurance provides peace of mind and a financial safety net when you need it most.