Ohio renters insurance

Ohio has some of the lowest average rental rates in the country and plenty of growing suburban areas in and around Columbus. While rental rates remain low in 2022, it is expected that the rental market may become more competitive as renters become priced out of major metropolitan areas in neighboring states. Renters insurance can help protect your property and assets when accidents happen.

Is Renters Insurance Required in Ohio

In the state of Ohio, renters insurance is not legally required. However, some landlords may require it as part of the Ohio rental application process. Renter’s insurance shows to your landlord that you are prepared to take on responsibility as a tenant and lowers their liability in the event of an accident or natural disaster. Plus, requiring insurance is a good way for landlords to select the best possible applicants for their units.

RentSpree makes it easy for you to verify your renters insurance insurance or get a new policy.

Why Your Landlord Might Require Renters Insurance

Even though the state of Ohio doesn’t require tenants to carry renter’s insurance, your landlord can and likely will. There are many reasons why your landlord might require insurance both for your benefit and for theirs: 

Tenants carrying renter’s insurance can help lower their premiums:

Landlords are required to carry insurance for their buildings regardless of whether or not the renter has their own. By requiring renter’s insurance, they can minimize the number of claims that go through their insurance as opposed to yours. Renter’s insurance also covers whatever the landlord’s insurance doesn’t, such as personal belongings, furniture, and electronics inside the home. 

It helps them select the best candidates:

Having renter’s insurance shows that you are an experienced and serious tenant who has taken responsibility for your property and liability protections. By requiring this as part of the application process, your landlord can find the best candidates in a highly competitive rental market. 

It covers you in the event of a forced relocation:

You never expect it, but it's always possible that a fire or natural disaster could render your apartment uninhabitable. While some landlords can relocate you to another unit, you’ll be responsible for moving and living expenses if this were to occur. Renters insurance will cover these expenses under the “loss of use” clause, which ensures that you’re protected from these rare circumstances.

Ohio Renters Insurance FAQ

Even if your landlord doesn’t require renters insurance, it’s a good idea to look into different policies to find one that’s right for you. If you don’t have any valuables in the apartment and aren’t planning to stay long, you may not need a policy. However, understanding the costs and benefits can help you make an informed decision. 

Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about renters insurance for Ohio residents:

Who needs renter’s insurance?

Anyone living in a rental unit with more possessions than they can afford to replace should consider a renter’s insurance policy. Without one, you could be left holding the bag if your apartment is flooded, experiences a fire, or is involved in a break-in. By protecting your assets you can have peace of mind throughout your lease. 

What does it cover?

Renters insurance typically covers three different expenses—personal property damage coverage, personal liability coverage, and loss of use coverage. Personal property damage covers your belongings, such as furniture and electronics, held within the apartment. Liability coverage protects you from financial responsibility if someone is injured while at your apartment, and loss of use coverage provides for living expenses in the event of a forced relocation. To learn more about specific coverages, talk to a local insurance provider. 

How much does renter’s insurance cost?

On average, renters insurance costs between $10 to $20 per month in Ohio, depending on a couple of factors. For example, your previous rental history, the rental location, the number of pets you own, and your military status can all alter your monthly premium. 

Can my roommate(s) and I share a policy?

Roommates can share renter’s insurance policies, but this is not always the best option depending on what belongings you share and how much your policy covers. If you share a policy, you effectively double the number of items in your inventory, which can lower your overall payout. By having your own insurance policies, you can get greater benefits and ensure if one of you has to move out, you can do so without a messy financial situation. 

Could my claim be denied? 

Renters insurance claims are rarely denied, but can be, based on several factors. For example, owning a particular dog breed may raise your rates or disqualify you from certain coverages. If your policy is limited to certain types of damage, your claim may be denied based on its limitations.