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Tenant insurance is affordable peace of mind

So, you’ve found your ideal apartment: a 2-bedroom basement paradise or a mid-town penthouse or a fantastic south-facing 1-bedroom condo. Now it’s time to move in right away, right? Sure, start packing, but make sure you also budget for tenant insurance.
Perhaps you think you don’t need it because you’re only renting and you don’t own any fancy stuff. But, what if something happened — would you have enough set aside to replace all your belongings and to find temporary housing?

Tenant insurance protects your property and also covers you in the event that you accidentally cause damage to the property of others. For example, if your bathtub overflowed and flooded the apartment below destroying your neighbour’s property, tenant insurance would protect you. Luckily, it’s a simple and affordable coverage. Also, if you’re a student, your parents’ policy might automatically extend coverage to you at school.

What’s typically covered by tenant insurance?
This type of insurance protects you from damage, like fire, theft, certain water damage and vandalism. If your apartment is seriously damaged as a result of an insured loss, tenant insurance would also typically cover your additional living expenses while it’s being repaired. Tenant insurance also provides liability coverage if someone gets hurt because of your negligence, like slipping and falling on a wet floor in your apartment for example.

How much coverage do you need?
The total cost of tenant’s insurance will depend largely on the value of your contents. Most renters tend to underestimate what it would cost to replace their belongings. It’s smart to take an inventory, including photos, which only takes a few minutes and will make things a lot easier if you experience a loss. Start by walking from room to room and itemize all the contents, including your closets and cupboards. You might think they’re not worth that much until you have to replace them. Keep in mind however that coverage for some insured items may be subject to exclusions or maximum limits. Read your policy carefully to determine your exact coverage.

Typical items to include on your inventory are: computer, printer, tablet, smart phone, flat screen TV, video game system and games, music player and other electronics, clothes, shoes, boots, pots, pans, other personal and household items.

For more information about choosing the right tenant insurance, give us a call (604-588-4466) or email (info@brokersmart.ca).