Seven Insurance Policies Rental Property Owners Should Consider

Now is just as good of a time as any for property managers to talk with their rental property owners to review protection of their assets. Properties are susceptible to not only acts of destruction or damage from Mother Nature but also from tenants. Proper coverage is essential.

Often, property owners who get into the rental housing game don’t realize that a homeowner’s policy doesn’t guarantee full protection. And while some of the responsibility is on the tenant, property managers ultimately bear much of the accountability. Without additional coverage – even if a tenant has renters insurance – the property and property manager can be put at high risk in certain situations.

Property management companies should serve as a trusted advisor and talk to their owners about common insurance concerns. Because no single insurance policy is a one-size-fits-all, good risk management often involves blending various coverages, even vendors. While multiple policies may seem excessive, they’re nothing compared to a partial or total loss that has to be paid from the owner’s pocketbook.

Several of the most common types of insurance policies that landlords employ at their rental properties are described below.  The descriptions provided are for informational purposes only and are intended to generally address the scope of these types of policies. Please note, however, that every policy is different and there is no guarantee that your policy will be as described—so you should consult with a qualified professional to determine whether your policy covers the issues described in this article.

1. Landlord insurance

A lot can happen on a property that subjects the property manager to liability that just isn’t covered by most property insurance policies. Landlord insurance is intended to cover the property owner in the event that a tenant is injured or incurs other personal damage at the residence. Without the protection, the property management company could be held responsible to pay for damages, even hospitalization. This type of coverage is essential in most types of leasing arrangements.

Generally speaking, with comprehensive “D-3” coverage, any cause of loss is allowed and paid at replacement cost except those specifically excluded. Some policies provide protection for loss of income.

2. Loss of income insurance

If your landlord insurance policy doesn’t cover loss of income, separate protection can be added. Loss of income insurance helps landlords recover lost revenue resulting from certain situations, particularly damage to the dwelling, or other business disruptions that force a vacancy. A policy may cover loss of income resulting from an "act of God," such as a tornado or hurricane, when the home has to be vacated so repairs can be made.

3. Fire insurance

According to recent data from the National Fire Protection Association, 1.345 billion fires were reported in 2015 resulting in $14.3 billion in property damage. Fire insurance is intended to cover the cost of repairing or rebuilding structures damaged or destroyed by fire, as well as contents. Policies typically cover damages to others caused by the spread of fire.

Because tenants can cause fires, property managers may want to allocate responsibility for coverage to their residents by requiring renters insurance. However, not all fires start through fault of residents. Losses resulting from electrical problems and in areas prone to wildfires are just as possible.

4. Vacant property insurance

A vacant property can be damaged by vandals, creating hefty repair bills for property managers. In recent years, thieves have targeted vacant homes for stealing copper and appliances. Protection is available for vacant properties, especially when in between residents. Some policies include additional coverages for damage caused by contractors who are making repairs or improvements.

5. Workman’s comp insurance

A vacant property can be damaged by vandals, creating hefty repair bills for property managers. In recent years, thieves have targeted vacant homes to steal copper and appliances. Protection is available for vacant properties, which is particularly important during the transition time between residents. Some policies include additional coverages for damage caused by contractors who are making repairs or improvements.

6. Flood insurance

Basic homeowner’s and/or hazard insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage resulting from acts of nature, such as hurricanes or flash flooding. Homeowner’s policies typically only pick up the tab when the flooding is a result of, for example, a broken pipe, ruptured water heater or from an appliance inside the home.

Flood insurance, which is intended to cover damage to the structure and contents, makes sense if the property is located in a designated flood zone or is likely to flood. In recent years, the insurance industry has paid significant amounts of money for flood damage linked to hurricanes. In 2005, nearly $18 billion in claims were paid, according to the National Flood Insurance Program, a provider of flood insurance to property owners.

7. Earthquake/sinkhole insurance

Certain parts of the country may also be susceptible to specific types of disaster that are inherent to that particular region. In Florida, for example, damaging sinkholes are somewhat common, and special insurance coverage is available. Elsewhere, in regions marked by fault lines, coverage may be available for properties prone to damage by earthquakes.

To recap, depending on the type of property, location and other factors, these types of coverages and others may or may not be necessary, and are merely suggested for informational purposes only. You should consult with your insurance broker to determine what types and scope of insurance coverage are best for you.

**Please note that this blog article, and its contents, is being provided for informational purposes only.  It does not constitute legal or other professional advice and should not be used or relied upon as a substitute for such advice.  You should consult with a qualified professional for any legal or insurance-related questions you have relating to the subject matter.**