Does Renters Insurance Cover Water Damage in Florida?

Renting an apartment, house, or room in Florida is an exciting prospect, but it is not without its challenges. Renters also have to tackle the same issues faced by homeowners, such as water or fire damage, theft, vandalism, and accidents. In order to equip the renter for these unfortunate circumstances, there is a need to invest in a good renters insurance policy in Florida.

Renters insurance protects renters, their belongings, and their living arrangements. When applying for renters insurance, keep in mind that rates vary depending on the insurance company and the type of coverage selected, among others. There are many insurance companies out there, so it is recommended to research well to find the one most suited to an individual's needs and budget.

In this article, ServiceMaster by Wright discusses the standard coverage of renters insurance and if it covers water damage.

What is the Coverage of Basic Renters Insurance?

As mentioned, renters or tenant insurance is used to cover the cost of replacements or restoration of personal belongings due to unforeseen events, among other benefits. A standard renters insurance is designed to cover the following:

Personal Property Coverage

This covers a renter's personal belongings such as household items, furniture, clothing, and jewelry up to a specified dollar limit. Take note that recreational items such as boats may need a separate policy.

This is designed to protect belongings when away from home or traveling and includes items in the house or those brought in the car or vacation. Certain rules apply, however, when the damage or loss occurred away from home, so always check the provisions of your policy.

Personal Liability Coverage

This is used to cover for damages caused to another person's property (specifics apply) or when you're liable for someone's injury due to an accident that happens inside your home.

Additional Living Expenses

If the rented property becomes uninhabitable after a loss incident, renters insurance can cover the costs for temporary living arrangements, like hotel bills.

The reimbursement process can either be done in cash value or by paying the cost to replace a damaged item. Note that this list is subject to changes depending on the insurance company and the policy a renter purchases, which is why it is important to choose and check your policy thoroughly, ensuring that all your needs are covered.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Water Damage?

While many renters focus on coverage for belongings if their rental is burglarized, it's also important to consider coverage for water damage.

A basic renters insurance policy may provide coverage for personal property losses caused by:

Windstorm or hail

Weight of sleet, snow and/or ice

Smoke

Fire and/or lightning

Explosions

Freezing of plumbing systems

Fire sprinkler failure/accidental discharge

Accidental or sudden discharge of water from a plumbing system or other appliance

Ceiling leaks

Toilet flooding due to accidental overflow

Remember that renters insurance does not cover flood insurance, so to further secure a property, there is a need to purchase a separate policy for flood damage.

What Should I Do if I Have a Water Loss?

In event of water damage in Florida, immediately call your insurance agent and a professional water damage restoration company like ServiceMaster by Wright. The water damage should be isolated so that it does not spread to other areas of the house and cause mold growth. Review your insurance policy and document the damage in detail. Keep receipts of the repairs done as well as the costs incurred if you have to stay somewhere else.

Hire an Insurance-Preferred Vendor in Southwest Florida like ServiceMaster by Wright for Water Damage Restoration Services

When your furniture and other personal belongings experience water damage, look to the professionals at ServiceMaster by Wright for safe, thorough water damage cleanup and restoration. We're here for you, whether it's to clean your rugs and upholstered furniture or to provide pack-out services. We'll help you work with your insurance company during the claims process to get your life back to normal fast.

ServiceMaster by Wright is an IICRC-certified firm offering water damage repair and restoration services in Bonita Springs, Bradenton, Cape Coral, Englewood, Fort Myers, Longboat Key, Naples, Marco Island, Sarasota, Siesta Key, and Venice. Call 239-431-9947.