Can a Landlord Force You to Get Renters Insurance?

When renting a home, you may wonder whether your landlord is allowed to require you to purchase renters insurance as a condition of your lease. Reinholdt & O'Harra Insurance is here to help you understand your rights, your responsibilities and what to expect when it comes to your insurance requirements.

Can Landlords Require Renters Insurance in Oregon?

In Oregon, landlords are legally allowed to require tenants to carry renters insurance as part of the lease agreement. This means you may be asked to present proof of a policy before moving in or renewing your lease.

Why Do Landlords Want Tenants to Have Renters Insurance?

A landlord insurance policy typically covers the structural elements and common areas of a rental property, as well as the landlord’s liabilities should their actions or negligence cause losses. By requiring tenants to have renters insurance, landlords may feel more financially secure and be less concerned about possible legal disputes related to incidents where your belongings are damaged, or one of your guests is harmed.

What Are Your Rights?

While landlords can require renters insurance, they must clearly state this requirement in your lease. As a tenant, you have the right to:

• Choose any insurance provider that meets the coverage requirements set by your landlord.
• Understand what is and isn’t covered, including any minimum coverage amounts or additional insured requirements.
• Ask questions if you’re unsure about any coverage requirements.

What Happens if You Don’t Get Renters Insurance?

If you don’t have renters insurance, your landlord may have grounds to deny your application, refuse to renew your lease or begin eviction proceedings. It’s important to review your lease carefully and comply with all insurance requirements.

How We Can Help

At Reinholdt & O'Harra Insurance, we help renters find insurance that meets landlord requirements and suits their needs and budget. Contact us today to learn more about your options or request a personalized quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.