Millions of employees work from home at least part time. They’ve carved out dedicated office space and plopped laptops on kitchen counters and in closets. They almost never can declare the home office tax deduction.
Millions of self-employed people have also created workspaces at home. If they use that part of their home exclusively and regularly for conducting business, and the home is the principal place of business, they may be able to deduct office-related business expenses.
Why the difference? The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act nearly doubled the standard deduction and eliminated many itemized deductions, including unreimbursed employee expenses, from 2018 to 2025.
Read on to learn whether or not you may qualify for the home office tax deduction.
What Is a Home Office Tax Deduction?
The home office tax deduction is available to self-employed people — independent contractors, sole proprietors, members of a business partnership, freelancers, and gig workers who require an office — who use part of their home, owned or rented, as a place of work regularly and exclusively.
“Home” can be a house, condo, apartment, mobile home, boat, or similar property, and includes structures on the property like an unattached garage, studio, barn, or greenhouse.
Eligible taxpayers can take a simplified deduction of up to $1,500 or go the detailed route and deduct office furniture, homeowners or renters insurance, internet, utilities needed for the business, repairs, and maintenance that affect the office, home depreciation, rent, mortgage interest, and many other things from taxable income.
After all, reducing taxable income is particularly important for the highly taxed self-employed (viewed by the IRS as both employee and employer.)
An employee who also has a side gig — like driving for Uber or dog walking — can deduct certain expenses from their self-employment income if they run the business out of their home. 💡 Quick Tip: You deserve a more zen mortgage. Look for a mortgage lender who’s dedicated to closing your loan on time.
Am I Eligible for a Home Office Deduction?
People who receive a W-2 form from their employer almost never qualify.
In general, a self-employed person who receives one or more IRS 1099-NEC tax forms may take the home office tax deduction.
Both of these must apply:
• You use the business part of your home exclusively and regularly for business purposes.
• The business part of your home is your main place of business; the place where you deal with patients or customers in the normal course of your business; or a structure not attached to the home that you use in connection with your business.
Regular and Exclusive Use
You must use a portion of the home for business needs on a regular basis. The real trick is to meet the IRS standard for the exclusive use of a home office. An at-home worker may spend nine hours a day, five days a week in a home office, yet is not supposed to take the home office deduction if the space is shared with a spouse or doubles as a gym or a child’s homework spot.
There are two exceptions to the IRS exclusive-use rules for home businesses.
• Daycare providers. Individuals offering daycare from home likely qualify for the home office tax deduction. Part of the home is used as a daycare facility for children, people with physical or mental disabilities, or people who are 65 and older. (If you run a daycare, your business-use percentage must be reduced because the space is available for personal use part of the time.)
• Storage of business products. If a home-based businessperson uses a portion of the home to store inventory or product samples, it’s OK to use that area for personal use as well. The home must be the only fixed location of the business or trade.
Principal Place of Business
Part of your home may qualify as your principal place of business “if you use it for the administrative or management activities of your trade or business and have no other fixed location where you conduct substantial administrative or management activities for that trade or business,” the IRS says.
Can You Qualify for a Home Office Deduction as an Employee?
Employees may only take the deduction if they maintain a home office for the “convenience of their employer,” meaning the home office is a condition of employment, necessary for the employer’s business to function, or needed to allow the employee to perform their duties.
Because your home must be your principal place of business in order to take the home office deduction, most employees who work part-time at home won’t qualify.
Can I Run More Than One Business in the Same Space?
If you have more than one Schedule C business, you can claim the same home office space, but you’ll have to split the expenses between the businesses. You cannot deduct the home office expenses multiple times.
How to Calculate the Home Office Tax Deduction
The deduction is most commonly based on square footage or the percentage of a home used as the home office.
The Simplified Method
If your office is 300 square feet or under, Uncle Sam allows you to deduct $5 per square foot, up to 300 square feet, for a maximum $1,500 tax deduction.
The Real Expense Method
The regular method looks at the percentage of the home used for business purposes. If your home office is 480 square feet and the home has 2,400 square feet, the percentage used for the home office tax deduction is 20%.
You may deduct 20% of indirect business expenses like utilities, cellphone, cable, homeowners or renters insurance, property tax, HOA fees, and cleaning service.
Direct expenses for the home office, such as painting, furniture, office supplies, and repairs, are 100% deductible. 💡 Quick Tip: A major home purchase may mean a jumbo loan, but it doesn’t have to mean a jumbo down payment. Apply for a jumbo mortgage with SoFi, and you could put as little as 10% down.
Things to Look Out for Before Applying for the Home Office Tax Deduction
If you’re an employee with side gigs or just self-employed, it might be a good idea to consult a tax pro when filing.
To avoid raising red flags, you may want to make sure your business expenses are reasonable, accurate, and well-documented. The IRS uses both automated and manual methods of examining self-employed workers’ tax returns. And in 2020, the agency created a Fraud Enforcement Office, part of its Small Business/Self-Employed Division. Among the filers in its sights are self-employed people.
The IRS conducts audits by mail or in-person to review records. The interview may be at an IRS office or at the tax filer’s home.
A final note: Taking all the deductions you’re entitled to and being informed about the different types of taxes is smart.
If you’re self-employed, you generally must pay a Social Security and Medicare tax of 15.3% of net earnings. Wage-earners pay 7.65% of gross income into Social Security and Medicare via payroll-tax withholding, matched by the employer.
So self-employed people often feel the burn at tax time. It’s smart to look for deductions and write off those home business expenses if you’re able to.
To shelter income and invest for retirement, you might want to set up a SEP IRA if you’re a self-employed professional with no employees.
Recommended: First-Time Homebuyers Guide
The Takeaway
If you’re an employee working remotely, the home office tax deduction is not for you, right now, anyway.
If you’re self-employed, the home office deduction could be helpful at tax time. To qualify for the home office deduction, you must use a portion of your house, apartment, or condominium (or any other type of home) for your business on a regular basis, and it generally must be the principal location of your business. This is something to keep in mind if you’re in the market for a new home, since writing off a portion of your home expenses could help offset some of the costs of homeownership.
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FAQ
How much can I get written off for my home office?
Using the simplified method of calculating the home office deduction, you can write off up to $1,500. Using the regular method, you’ll need to determine the percentage of your home being used for business purposes. You may then be able to deduct that percentage of certain indirect expenses (like utilities, cellphone, cable, homeowners or renters insurance, property tax, HOA fees, and cleaning services). Direct expenses for the home office, such as painting, furniture, office supplies, and repairs, are generally 100% deductible.
Can I make a claim for a home office tax deduction without receipts?
The simplified method does not require detailed records of expenses. If using the regular method, you should be prepared to defend your deduction in the event of an IRS audit.
The IRS says the law requires you to keep all records you used to prepare your tax return for at least three years from the date the return was filed.
What qualifies as a home office deduction?
Things like insurance, utilities, repairs, maintenance, equipment, and rent may qualify as tax deductions.
Photo credit: iStock/Marija Zlatkovic
SoFi Mortgages Terms, conditions, and state restrictions apply. Not all products are available in all states. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information.
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*SoFi requires Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) for conforming home loans with a loan-to-value (LTV) ratio greater than 80%. As little as 3% down payments are for qualifying first-time homebuyers only. 5% minimum applies to other borrowers. Other loan types may require different fees or insurance (e.g., VA funding fee, FHA Mortgage Insurance Premiums, etc.). Loan requirements may vary depending on your down payment amount, and minimum down payment varies by loan type.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
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In today’s volatile housing market, ensuring your home is protected against unexpected repairs and replacements is more crucial than ever. As homeowners seek peace of mind amidst the unpredictability of homeownership, home warranty companies have stepped up to offer a buffer against unforeseen expenses.
5 Best Home Warranty Companies
With so many options available, pinpointing the most reliable and value-packed home warranty company can be daunting. To help you choose, we’ve curated a list of the best home warranty companies to ensure your home’s systems and appliances receive the top-tier coverage they deserve. Take the time to discover which provider aligns best with your needs.
#1 Choice Home Warranty
There are plenty of reasons to go with Choice Home Warranty. First, they are a top-rated business according to ConsumerAffairs.com and have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
They have a five-star rating from Trust Pilot, and Inc. 5000 has recognized them as one of America’s fastest-growing private companies.
Choice has customer service available 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. So if you’ve got a problem, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and call them.
They are more than happy to answer any questions about your home warranty plan or, if need be, put in a request for a repair. A licensed, pre-screened, and continuously monitored technician will come to your house, usually within one or two business days.
The age of your home, its systems, and appliances is not relevant to Choice Home Warranty. They always cover items that have been properly maintained and were in well-working order when coverage was initiated.
If the item in question needs to be replaced but is no longer available on the market, they will give you a cash payment of the item’s replacement cost.
Another plus is that you don’t even have to get your home inspected before Choice Home Warranty will begin offering you coverage.
Choice also has a very reasonable $85 dollar service call, which makes them among the most competitive warranty providers for service calls.
Plan Options
1. Total Plan ($450 a year)
Includes coverage on the following —
AC
Heating
Electrical
Plumbing
Water Heater
Whirlpool
Refrigerator
Oven
Dishwasher
Microwave
Garbage Disposal
Washer and Dryer
Ductwork
Garage Door Opener
Ceiling and Exhaust Fans
2. Basic Plan ($378 a year)
Includes coverage on everything mentioned above, EXCEPT:
AC
Refrigerator
Washer and Dryer
Items that can be added at additional cost include:
Pool
Central Vacuum
Well and Sump Pump
Limited Roof Leak
Stand Alone Freezer
Second Refrigerator
Septic System
Septic Pumping
Read our full review of Choice Home Warranty
#2 Advanced Home Warranty
Advanced Home Warranty offers comprehensive coverage and a 24/7 claims hotline, making it a strong choice for anyone considering a home warranty.
Home warranties are available nationwide, so you can qualify for a plan, no matter where you live in the U.S. Plus, you can try it out without any risk by signing up to get your first month completely free of charge.
Trade service fees are reasonable at $60. If the cost of the repair is less, you’ll pay the smaller amount. This is one of the lowest service fees available among the providers on our list.
While they don’t offer a wide range of plans, you can get coverage on some of the big-ticket items associated with homeownership.
A low monthly fee can be much more manageable than paying for replacements outright every time an appliance breaks. There are also parts of even larger systems that are included in their coverage.
Here’s a breakdown of the two home warranty plans available from Advanced Home Warranty, how much you’ll pay, and what exactly they include.
1. Basic Plan ($370 a year, plus one month free)
Includes coverage on the following:
Heating System
Electrical System
Plumbing System
Dishwasher
Microwave
Garage Door Opener
2. Total Plan ($450 a year, plus one month free)
Includes coverage on everything above, PLUS:
Air Conditioning
Refrigerator
Washer/Dryers
Do read each home warranty plan for details on exactly how each specific item on the list is covered.
Read our full review of Advanced Home Warranty
#3 Liberty Home Guard
Liberty Home Guard offers a high degree of personalization for your home warranty coverage. For example, you can pick the plan and also how often you want to be billed.
You can choose monthly payments, annual payments, or for the most savings, multi-year home warranty plans.
Liberty Home Guard offers a service call fee of $60, which is a competitive service fee. You can also expect your service call to be delivered within 48 hours of making a claim.
You don’t need a home inspection to qualify for coverage with Liberty Home Guard. There’s also no limit to how many claims you can file within a year.
You can file your claims online for your ease and convenience. And with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee on service, you’re sure to be satisfied with the repair or replacement process.
If for some reason, you want to cancel your plan early, it’s entirely possible because there’s no annual contract. You’ll receive a prorated refund for any time you’ve paid for, except for a small administrative fee.
With Liberty Home Guard, there are three different coverage options you can choose from. You can also include optional add-ons in any plan.
1. Appliance Warranty for $39.99 Monthly or $399.99 Annually
Clothes washer
Clothes dryer
Refrigerator with ice maker dispenser
Built-in microwave oven
Dishwasher
Garbage disposal
Range/ oven/ cooktop
Ceiling and exhaust fans
Garage door opener
2. Systems Guard for $49.99 Monthly or $499.99 Annually
Air conditioning
Heating
Ductwork
Plumbing
Electrical
Water heaters
3. Total Home Guard for $59.99 Monthly or $599.99 Annually
This choice offers the most protection of all the plans and includes everything listed in the two plans above.
4. Optional Add-ons
Pool and spa: $17.00 monthly; $195.00 annually
Sump and pump: $3.00 monthly; $36.00 annually
Central vacuum: $3.00 monthly; $36.00 annually
Well pump: $9.00 monthly; $101.00 annually
Additional spa: $16.00 monthly; $188.00 annually
Septic system and septic sewage ejector pump: $11.00 monthly; $123.00 annually
Stand alone freezer: $4.00 monthly; $44.00 annually
Second refrigerator: $4.00 monthly; $44.00 annually
Read our full review of Liberty Home Guard
#4 Complete Protection
Complete Protection is another excellent home warranty company. Servicing all but nine states, this A+ Accredited Business is open 24/7.
Only slightly more expensive, this once small-scale, family-owned business offers some of the most comprehensive home warranties available in North America.
One of the many benefits offered by Complete Protection is their no-fee service call policy. With most quality providers charging at least $50 per service call, having no service call fee at all is a major perk.
They have five plans you can choose from:
Kitchen/Laundry: $32 a month/ $384 a year — covers your dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, and washer and dryer.
Heating/Cooling: $34 a month/ $408 a year — covers your furnace, AC, and water heater.
Basic Built-ins: $40 a month/ $400 a year — Furnace, AC, water heater, dishwasher, and oven.
Full House: $50 a month/ $600 a year — Furnace, AC, water heater, dishwasher, oven, refrigerator, and washer and dryer.
Full House Plus: $60 a month/ $720 a year — Includes everything mentioned in the first four plans, but also includes electrical wiring and in-bound water pipes.
What makes Complete Protection stand out even more:
There are a few other things that make Complete Protection stand out from its competitors. For one, their home warranties don’t have a deductible. As a result, you don’t have to pay any approved repair costs when something happens — this includes the initial service call, parts, and labor.
Secondly, CP pays for all preventative maintenance. Other home warranty companies mandate that their customers undergo preventative maintenance on items such as HVAC systems, but they won’t even pay for it. Instead, they force their customers to do so!
Thirdly, CP home warranties cover all the parts within an appliance. Most home warranty companies exclude parts like ice makers or washing racks within dishwashers. CP does not pick and choose which parts it will cover.
Lastly, Complete Protection allows you to choose your own service contract provider. So, if you have a certified contractor with whom you work, you can go to them whenever home repairs are needed.
They do this because they feel that their customers should always be comfortable with the person working in their house.
Read our full review of Complete Protection
#5: American Home Shield
The accolades American Home Shield has received are many. In addition to being a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business, they also received the Women’s Choice Award from 2014 to 2016.
On top of that, Home Warranty Reviews gave American Home Shield the Best in Service award in 2014 and ranked them as Top Rated from 2015-2017. Last but not least, they are Consumer Affairs Accredited.
Why so much recognition from the industry? For starters, they’re always open. You can always reach them regardless of what day or time it is. And, when you do, expect a local contractor to be at your home within no more than 24 hours. You don’t even have to get on the phone. You can request home repairs directly from their website.
Another reason American Home Shield is recognized as the best among the best is its versatility with its home warranty plans. They have four to choose from:
Systems Plan: Covers the replacement or repair of your home’s key systems, such as: plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning, and smoke detectors.
Appliances Plan: Includes coverage on common, everyday household appliances, such as refrigerators, built-in food processors, dishwashers, and washer and dryers.
Combo Plan: Get coverage on all of your primary home systems and appliances. Saves you $14 a month if you were to rather purchase the systems and appliances plans separately.
Build your own plan: Choose only what you want to be covered by selecting 10 or more items from their list of covered items. This way you get the coverage that you care about the most.
Another element of their customized service is their service fees. American Home Shield allows customers to choose from a service fees range of $75, $100 or $125 per service request. This allows you to get the plan you want without having to account for a high service call fee.
The ability to choose your own service call fee regardless of the plan you’re on separates American Home Shield from most other home warranty companies which carry a standard service call fee.
Additionally, American Home Shield can provide coverage for your pool, spa, well pump, and septic system (at additional costs) and can assist you during the moving process by covering your home while it’s listed. If the new owner decides they would like to upgrade service afterward, it’s an easy switch to do so at closing.
Read our full review of American Home Shield
Methodology: How We Chose The Best Home Warranty Companies
When researching the best home warranty companies, we analyzed over 20 of the most popular home warranty companies. Our team spent hours reviewing each home warranty company. We examined many factors, but mainly focused on the following:
Home warranty plans and options
Pricing
Reputation and trustworthiness
Customer reviews
Pros of Home Warranties
Peace of Mind
One of the major benefits of a good home warranty is peace of mind. A home warranty can bring some real financial security against unexpected home repairs. While getting your home in ideal shape can be tough, maintaining that level can be even more stressful. A good warranty coverage can cut away a big chunk of that worry.
Convenience
One of the biggest problems people can encounter when faced with unexpected breakdown at home is finding good help. But a home warranty also reduces some of that stress, as your provider can provide you with a relevant licensed expert within their network.
Potential Savings
In many cases, standard home repairs – such as a new boiler, for example – can be a lot cheaper if replaced under warranty. While home warranties can’t guarantee savings, chances are you will see the benefits speak for themselves over time.
Transferable
Many home warranties are transferable, meaning you could carry your plan to a new home if you decide to move. Be sure to check whether transferability is a feature of any warranty before signing if that’s important to you.
Cons of Home Warranties
Wait Times
Unfortunately, wait times for claims can sometimes keep you waiting. If you need a quick fix or emergency repairs at home, you may have to wait longer than you would like. One thing that can help here is looking for a provider that provides an online claims process. This is because online claims are often processed faster than those done over the phone.
Coverage Exclusions
Home warranties don’t cover everything, and it can be hard in an emergency to remember your exact coverage limits. It’s important to read the details carefully before signing up, and put a plan in place if you need work that falls outside your warranty coverage.
Cost
Home warranty coverage isn’t cheap, especially if you want to secure protection across your property. You won’t necessarily be covered by service fees, even if you choose a plan with a high service fee. And of course, some maintenance and repairs can come with further costs on top of your plan. These high costs can make it difficult to discern whether a home warranty is the right thing for you.
Other Home Warranty Companies to Consider
Here are a few other home warranty companies that didn’t make our top 5 that you may still want to look into.
Like so many things in our lives, a home warranty is something that we don’t often think about until we absolutely need it. Sure, you have home insurance, maybe even flood insurance, but that only covers certain situations.
Homeowners Insurance
Homeowners or renters insurance can cover damage to your home from things like fire, theft, storms, and some natural disasters. In addition to your homeowners insurance plan, you should choose to purchase a home warranty to protect your belongings in a way that insurance lacks.
If you’ve ever purchased a large appliance, a computer, or even a television from a retailer, then you’re probably familiar with the concept of a warranty.
However, those are warranties sold at the time of purchase and cover only one product. The benefit of home warranty protection is that it can cover every product in your home and more.
Choosing a Home Warranty Plan
What a home warranty plan covers will depend on the plan you choose, and there are many to choose from. A home warranty can cover anything from your microwave oven to your plumbing and your electrical systems.
Deciding which plan is right for you will determine what items and systems it covers and how much it will cost. Typically, home warranties charge either a small monthly or annual fee that can save you a lot of money in the long run.
How to Choose the Right Home Warranty
Choosing the right home warranty is key. Let’s run through all the details you need to consider before making your decision.
Determine Your Coverage Needs
At the very least, it’s important to get at least an idea of what sort of coverage you need. Take the time to decide which items in your home you want to protect before comparing offers. You’ll find plans that cover appliances, home systems, and plans that cover both.
Compare Quotes
It’s worthwhile to shop around. Try to acquire at least three different quotes from plans that you’re genuinely interested in. And use this time to also prioritize clearing up any questions you have about the policies you’ve been offered.
Don’t forget to pay close attention to the various prices you’ll see for service call fees. Some companies are much more competitive than others, and some even offer a service fees range which you can choose from depending on your needs and budget.
Review Sample Contracts & Liabilities
The next step is to review any sample contracts carefully. You’ll want to identify the limitations and exclusions in the contract, especially.
Furthermore, be sure to double-check cancellation policy just in case you decide your warranty isn’t working for you later on.
Check Reviews
Finding the best home warranty company for you will require some further research. You can read customer reviews online to find a company that provides great customer service as well as competitive plans.
Be sure to look out for any record of previous legal action taken against the company, too.
Home Warranty FAQ
What is a home warranty?
A home warranty is a type of service contract purchased to cover breakdowns, repairs, and replacements of home appliances and systems. Home warranties are designed to cover normal wear-and-tear damage on covered items and systems.
When a covered item breaks down or otherwise requires attention, you file a claim with your warranty provider. They then send a licensed technician to your home to assess the issue. Instead of paying for the full cost of the repair, being under warranty generally means paying only a small service fee for necessary repairs. The price of service fees varies between providers.
Home warranties are popular because they offer homeowners maintenance coverage and emergency repairs without having to rely on savings. The home warranty market today is huge and can provide terms for homes and budgets of many shapes and sizes.
What does a home warranty cover?
Home warranties can cover a whole range of systems and appliances within your home. You can decide how much you want to spend and determine what items will be covered by your home warranty.
Most home warranty companies break down their offerings into good, better, and best options. The good option, and least expensive, is one that covers most if not all of your appliances.
Major Home Systems
More expensive on an upfront basis are plans that cover major home systems. These home warranty plans cover the systems within your home. If you’re renting, this may not be of concern to you. However, if you own your home, you know that a plumber or electrician can cost a lot more than replacing your refrigerator.
If you’re less concerned with appliances and worried about what keeps your home humming along, then you may want to consider a system plan.
Appliances
Appliances like your microwave, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and often a lot more are covered by the best home warranty companies. These are great options for those who are renting or want to spend the least amount of money.
Systems & Appliances
The most expensive plans, of course, offer the most coverage. The best plans cover both systems and appliances. So while they’re the most expensive, they’re also the best value. Covering your systems and appliances together will typically save you around 20% to 30% of your total bill.
Basic plans from the best home warranty companies will cover the majority of systems and appliances in your home but don’t cover everything. If you have a pool, for instance, you may have to choose additional coverage.
Some home warranty companies even allow you to add coverage to cover your homeowners’ insurance deductible. Combining appliance and system coverage may also include these additions.
There are exclusions to what a home warranty will cover. Unfortunately, no plan is a blank check to have every item in your home replaced. These are repair plans and not replacement plans.
What is not covered by a home warranty?
The extent of your warranty coverage will vary greatly between companies and plans available. Having said that, however, here is a list of the ideas that are usually not covered by a home warranty:
Structural issues, paint and flooring
Commercial-grade equipment or systems
Pre-existing conditions
Rust, corrosion and sediment problems
Improper maintenance, installation, design, or manufacturer defect
Detection and removal of asbestos and mold
Building and zoning code violations
How much does a home warranty cost?
Home warranty pricing varies greatly depending on the coverage you choose, the home warranty company, and the area in which you live. In general, though, if you’re just covering appliances, expect to pay around $30 a month.
If you’re looking for only system coverage, you’ll probably pay around $35 a month. However, if you combine your coverage to include both systems and appliances, expect to pay around $45 per month.
Adding things not covered by a typical home warranty plan can also increase your monthly bill. If you have an atypical appliance or system, it’s possible that basic plans do not cover it. Not everyone has a swimming pool, a septic tank, a whirlpool tub, or a spa.
Check with your individual plan to ensure that all systems and appliances you want to have covered are actually included. If they aren’t, see if you can add them separately.
Service Fees
In addition to your monthly fee, you’ll also need to pay service fees for a service call. This cost can vary greatly.
The best home warranty companies offer plans that will cost you around $50 to $125 per repair. This is based on the home warranty company, the plan, and the item that needs to be fixed. While this may seem like a lot, consider the cost of the average repair without a warranty.
What can you expect to pay without a home warranty?
The average repair cost of a refrigerator is $275 to $325. The igniter on an oven or range may only cost $110 to $200 to repair, but a control board could cost you more than $260.
Replacing a rubber gasket on your washer will set you back between $200 to $300. These expenses can quickly add up compared to the fee home warranty companies charge for a visit.
Bottom line: They’ll address the issues with your current item but won’t give you a new one.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Pre-existing conditions are not covered either. Unfortunately, if one of your major appliances breaks, you can’t just sign up for coverage and expect to have it fixed.
Most home warranty companies will cover an unknown pre-existing condition. However, you can’t have an appliance covered if you or the home warranty provider knows that it’s already broken. This is why it’s a good idea to think about purchasing home warranty coverage before your appliances break.
Coverage Waiting Period
Most companies impose a 15 to 30 day waiting period before coverage can begin. There are, however, exceptions to this rule. For instance, if you have a home warranty that is ending soon, you may be able to begin on the date your coverage stops.
It’s important to read the fine print of your service contract. Each home warranty company will have very specific coverage details.
While all will most likely cover your refrigerator, not all of them will cover wear and tear on the gasket that seals it. Typically, the more expensive the plan, the more it covers, but this is not always the case.
What is the process for having an item repaired?
When something breaks, especially if you have a home warranty, you’ll want it fixed as quickly as possible.
Going without a microwave for a week or two may be acceptable, but if it’s your refrigerator, you may not be so patient. When an item malfunctions or breaks, you’ll need to contact your home warranty company’s customer service and explain the issue.
Make sure you report the problem as quickly as possible. The faster you make the call, the faster you’ll get an appointment and have your issue resolved.
Independent Contractors
The home warranty provider will most likely assign an independent contractor to inspect and repair the item. Obviously, system repairs can take longer and be more labor-intensive.
For example, replacing a part on your furnace will be a lot easier than repairing electrical wiring or plumbing inside your walls.
Depending on what is wrong, the contractor may have to order parts or return with specialized equipment. You’ll be required to pay a service fee for each item you wish to have repaired. However, the contractor should ensure that the item returns to working order.
Workmanship Guarantee
Once you’ve had an appliance or system repaired, that item is covered under a workmanship guarantee. Think of it as a warranty within your warranty.
The home warranty provider guarantees the parts and labor of that particular repair for a specified amount of time. This is usually around 90 to 180 days after the repair. So, even if you cancel your plan, they will still cover the repair during that time.
Who should pay for a home warranty?
Many times the seller will buy a home warranty to make the purchase of the home more appealing. Sometimes a real estate agent will even purchase a home warranty as a courtesy to the clients they’re representing. However, buyers, sellers, real estate agents, and current homeowners can all buy a home warranty. It’s also important to note that buying a home warranty can be done at any time, before or after closing.
What should you look for in a home warranty company?
A home warranty can save you a lot of hassle and headaches, not to mention money, down the road—as long as you do your homework and think it through.
A home warranty covers many things that homeowners insurance does not. Having peace of mind knowing that costly home repairs won’t spring up unexpectedly is a great feeling.
Choosing the right type of coverage for you is the next step. When you think about the type of coverage you want, think about the items you want to protect in your home.
Renters
If you’re just renting, then plumbing and electrical work is not a concern for you. Your homeowners insurance should cover things like theft and fire, but you still want to be covered when something breaks that you actually own. Choosing an appliance plan is probably the right option for you.
If you live in an older home that you own, a more comprehensive plan may be the right choice for you. It’s comforting to have your home inspected before purchasing, but things can still go wrong. You can avoid costly maintenance as long as you plan ahead.
Are home warranties worth it?
The answer to this question will depend largely on your unique circumstances. Two of the biggest factors are the age of your home and the quality of your appliances. In addition, your own ability and comfort with repair and maintenance is a factor.
Almost every home appliance and system will eventually require significant repair or even replacement. Depending on your own DIY skills, you might be comfortable taking responsibility for most repairs. Others might want more comprehensive coverage. But even still, there could be plenty of reasons why you would prefer to have a home warranty.
How do I cancel my home warranty?
Your first step should be to review your contract and make sure you understand the cancellation policy. Most companies will charge a cancellation fee that can range from 5% to 10% of the outstanding fee.
Thereafter, you can contact the company and tell them you’re considering cancelling your warranty. If possible, try to speak to a sales rep with whom you’re familiar.
Some companies require you to send a written notice of termination. Remember to cancel any automated payments from your credit card or bank account, if necessary. It might also be a good idea to request a written confirmation of the cancellation for your records.
Which home warranty company has the lowest service call fee?
Service call fees can vary widely between companies, but it’s important to try to find the most competitive service call fee available to you. Service fees generally range from $50 to $150 per service call.
The trick with finding a competitive service fee call is making sure you don’t sacrifice the quality of service calls. Some of the top-rated home warranty companies charge a higher service fee. However, it could be worth it to have the security and confidence of quality home service.
Final Thoughts
To find the best home warranty company, you will need to read the contract thoroughly. Every company that you investigate will have a contract. In that contract, they’ll spell out exactly what they do and do not cover.
They’ll also explain the cost, who will fix your items if they break, and more. Comparing two or more home warranty companies can give you a sense that you’ve made the right decision. Always make sure you do your homework.
Furthermore, check to see if a home inspection is required before qualifying for a home warranty with a specific company. Many don’t require this extra step, but it’s wise to be prepared in case they do. You definitely want to consider both cost and convenience as part of your ultimate decision.
Full Reviews of Home Warranty Companies
Looking for more options? Check out our other home warranty reviews below.
With more pet ownership happening across the country, finding the best cities for pets could help you live more comfortably. The best cities for pets provide pet-friendly apartments, as well as plenty of amenities, such as off-leash parks, hiking spots, veterinary hospitals and doggie daycares.
Finding the best cities for pets
In our search for the best cities for pets, we analyzed the percentage of apartments in our database that were pet-friendly and allowed dogs or cats.
We also looked at the average cost of veterinarian services in large metro areas with populations above 100,000 and the number of pet-related businesses and parks per capita. Then, we ranked them accordingly.
Here are the best cities for pets in the U.S.
10. Davie, FL
Just north of Miami, Davie is a town with plenty of scenic parks. Head over to Happy Tails Dog Park, the city’s pristine dog park, where your dog can socialize and run obstacle courses. The park has three different play areas and doggie water fountains.
There’s also Central Broward Park, which features 110 acres of fields and playgrounds, Vista View Park, a hilly green space to spend the day hiking and Peace Mound Park, which has an ancient burial site.
Located in Broward County, Davie is known for its colleges, universities and technical colleges. It’s home to plenty of family-friendly activities, such as hanging at the Flamingo Garden and Everglades Holiday Park.
9. Vacaville, CA
Fast-growing city Vacaville in Northern California, just 55 miles outside of San Francisco and because it’s not in the heart of the city, it’s a lot more affordable, too.
Vacaville is a great place to get on your bike and take your dog on a run through Alamo Creek Bike Trail or Lagoon Valley Park, a green, fenced off area for off-leash dogs to run around.
Besides sprawling, recreational areas and charming parks, you can also spend the afternoon checking out some of the local wineries.
Vacaville even has its own little museum, honoring the local heritage. It’s an ideal place away from the hustle and bustle, but close enough if you ever need to access a bigger city (only 35 miles from Sacramento).
8. Naperville, IL
Naperville is a suburb of Chicago — it sits just 35 miles west of the Windy City and is home to paths and bridges that hug the DuPage River. Just like Vacaville, Naperville is far enough from the concrete jungle of Chicago so residents can enjoy the more scenic vibe of public art, colorful local shops, cafes and restaurants.
Grab the leash and take your dog on a stroll through Naperville Riverwalk, which has a two-mile path that opens up to the heart of the city. It’s picturesque with lots of green space, shopping and places to eat or get takeout along the way.
7. Arvada, CO
When it comes to outdoor activities, you really can’t find a better place than Colorado. Arvada, which is near Denver, offers a unique, small-town feel with a retro vibe. The city has a historic shopping district called Olde Town and offers plenty of parks, trails (it has 125 miles of hiking and biking!) and lakes where you can see the mountains and bald eagles.
You can hike Mesa Trail and see views of the Flatirons or check out Eldorado Canyon State Park to climb amid sandstone cliffs. Because of its close proximity to nature, low crime rate and educated workforce, Arvada is a popular place to live. It encompasses the top 20 of Colorado’s wealthiest ZIP Codes.
6. Scottsdale, AZ
While summers are hot, the rest of the year in Scottsdale is relatively mild, which makes it a comfortable place to live with your pet and get outside. Just outside of Arizona’s capital Phoenix, Scottsdale is well-known for incredible views of rock formations at Camelback Mountain and Hole in the Rock, a geological cluster with big open spaces.
Scottsdale even has a number of popular pet-friendly hotels (for some cool, indoor time for those scorching summers) and is generally welcoming of pets in public places, such as its posh Scottsdale Fashion Square and local wineries.
5. Tyler, TX
In eastern Texas, Tyler is known for its rose gardens and even has a museum dedicated to remembering the rich history of the town’s annual Texas Rose Festival.
Tyler is the kind of place where you can visit popular attractions, such as the Tyler Azalea trail and any of their lakes, such as Lake Tyler and East Lake Tyler.
The city’s location and access to nature make it a great place for pets. The Sunrise Paw Park is a massive dog park — four acres, to be exact. The park, just northwest of Old Jackson Highway, has separate fenced off sections for small and large dogs to play and socialize.
4. Boulder, CO
At the base of the Rocky Mountains is Boulder, CO. The city offers the best of both worlds, with the intricate rock formations of the Flatirons just west and the convenience of Pearl Street’s downtown’s shops, cafes and restaurants.
You can take your furry best friend just about anywhere in Boulder, including hiking trails and picnics with some spectacular scenery.
A dog-friendly must-do hike is the Flatirons Vista and Doudy Draw Trail, which is a beginner-level, 3.7-mile hike that will take about three hours. It’s an incredible way to spend the day, especially in the spring.
3. Ann Arbor, MI
Ann Arbor is near the Huron River and nicknamed “Tree Town” because of its abundance of green space — even their downtown is filled with trees. Known as one of the best places to live in Michigan, Ann Arbor is a welcoming place for young professionals, families and their pets.
A popular destination for dog-lovers is Swift Run Dog Park, which is an outdoor grassy area with 10 acres of freedom for Fido to get some exercise and be off-leash.
Stroll through the coffee shops and historic downtown area that’s lined with vintage clothing shops, independent bookstores and historic theaters. Ann Arbor is also home to the University of Michigan, and its creative, youthful vibe makes it feel like a typical university town.
2. Charleston, SC
For being such an old city, founded in 1670, Charleston is surprisingly pet-friendly, with tons to do and see with Fido, including James Island County Park. This play haven features a dog beach, four acres of grass, a cleaning station and a fenced play area for small dogs.
Besides dog parks, beaches and trails, Charleston exudes an old, historic charm. The port city has cobblestone streets, especially in the French Quarter and Battery districts.
Go for a stroll down the promenade and Waterfront Park for a relaxing view of the Charleston Harbor. There are also tons of local shopping venues, theaters, museums, cafes and gardens.
1. Greeley, CO
The No. 1 city for Fido is in Greeley, a city in northern Colorado, about an hour away from Denver. There’s plenty of outdoor activities to do with your pet, from spending the afternoon at Poudre River Trail or taking advantage of the green space at Rover’s Run Dog Park.
Greeley is a central hub for community events and unlike its more expensive counterparts in Denver and Boulder, it’s considered a hidden gem due to its affordability in housing.
Greeley is a thriving cultural area, known for its art, entertainment and food-driven events, such as their summer-long Friday Fest and OktoBREWfest in the fall.
Greeley also landed in the No. 35 spot in a well-being index report, which measures community social and health data across populations.
The 50 best cities for pets
If you want to know what other cities made the list beyond the top 10, here are the top 50 best cities for pets.
Finding a pet-friendly apartment
Here’s what you need to know in order to find the best find a pet-friendly apartment for your needs.
Search for pet-friendly amenities
Newer apartment buildings come with all sorts of amenities, beyond a pool and fitness center. Pet-friendly apartments will have on-site dog parks, washing stations and even pet daycare.
Get renters insurance
You may have heard why it’s important to get renters insurance. Consider buying it for the year if you’re ready to move to a new apartment with your pet. It could show your new landlord that you’re responsible and are covered in case your pet causes any damage to the unit.
Depending on the type of coverage and policy you choose, renters insurance may include:
Property damage to the unit
Liability in case someone gets hurt in your unit
Theft of belongings in your apartment and car
Additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable as a result of a covered emergency
Get a recommendation
Ask your former landlord to write a letter of recommendation, highlighting your dog’s behavior and the condition of your previous apartment. You may want to include other types of documentation when talking to your landlord, such as:
Obedience school documents
Pet sitters who took care of your dog
A former neighbor
Pay a pet deposit
This topic will inevitably come up when you look for a pet-friendly apartment. Most apartment buildings will require a pet deposit, which is generally a few hundred dollars.
Take photos of your apartment before you move in
When you find the right place to live, be sure to take photos of your apartment before you move in. This could serve a few purposes for you, including proof that your pet didn’t ruin the unit.
You could show these photos to future landlords to state your case that your dog is well behaved. It could also help you get your security deposit back.
Methodology
To determine the best cities for pets, we looked at all cities with at least 100,000 people according to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2019 estimates and then ranked each city by the following factors:
Pet-friendliness (50%)
The percentage of available properties that allow dogs or cats. Listings are from Apartment Guide and Rent.’s November 2020 multifamily rental property inventory.
Veterinarian costs (20%)
Pet businesses per capita (30%)
Businesses include vets, animal hospitals, pet shops, pet training facilities, pet boarding, pet supplies and parks. Counts come from a database of 8 million commercially licensed business listings and may not reflect recent openings or closures.
Each of these factors was weighted differently, and the cities with the best overall score were determined to be the best cities for pets.
Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This may influence which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations.
Making a financial plan can be intimidating, especially if you don’t know all of the essential budget categories you should include. Budgeting isn’t a one-size-fits-all process either, as the importance of each category will largely depend on your specific financial situation.
This article will review the top 12 budget categories that can bolster your financial plan. Credit.com also has multiple personal finance resources that can enhance your financial literacy.
Several important budget categories account for housing, transportation, health care, entertainment expenses, and more.
Key Takeaways:
The prioritization of budget categories will be unique to your needs.
Some expenses have fixed prices, while others have variable costs. You’ll need to account for both from one month to the next.
Tools like money apps and budget spreadsheets can help you visualize your spending habits.
Table of Contents:
Why Do I Need a Budget?
A budget can ensure that you aren’t caught off-guard by bills throughout the month—especially near the month’s end or right before you get paid. Keeping a budget can also provide long-term data based on your spending habits and serve as a snapshot of your priorities.
Effective budgets can help you plan for longer-term goals, like retirement, and inform you of what expenditures truly make you happy—and which ones aren’t necessary.
Fixed Expenses vs. Variable Expenses
Fixed expenses refer to items that essentially cost the same each month, with very little fluctuation in terms of pricing. Mortgage and rent payments, auto loan payments, and internet service bills will likely fall into this category.
Variable, or flexible, expenses can drastically differ from one month to the next. The amount you spend on groceries, clothes, entertainment, and even medical appointments can all vary over time.
Top 12 Budget Categories to Add to Your Plan
The following budget categories can help you map out your monthly expenses. Depending on your unique circumstances, these categories may need to be adjusted in terms of their priority.
1. Housing Expenses
Housing often takes top priority as your living space is directly tied to your long-term health and safety. You also need a stable housing situation to perform well at work and ensure that you have the funds to make your mortgage or rent each month.
While there’s no strict maximum for the housing category, you can expect to spend anywhere from 25% to 35% of your income on your mortgage or rent payments. If your housing budget exceeds more than 35% of your monthly income, refinancing your mortgage or looking for another living space might be more expense-friendly in the long run.
Items that fall in housing expenses:
Rent
Mortgage Payment
Appliances
Household Repairs
2. Utilities
The ability to live comfortably in your home is just as crucial for your health as actually having one, which is why utilities are usually another high-priority item. Many residential buildings in some urban areas have ordinances that require certain utilities, like water and electricity, to be considered safe living.
Utilities rarely come close to the top of the list of expenses in terms of cost, and you can reduce their cost with proper management. Depending on their usage, you can expect to spend around 5% to 10% on monthly utilities.
Items that fall in the utilities category:
Electricity
Water
Telephone
Natural gas
Sewer
Trash
Heating
Air conditioning
3. Transportation Costs
Owning or leasing a vehicle, along with repairing it, can be another high-priority expense. Some areas may complement alternative means of transportation, such as public transit or biking—which would result in much less money going toward this category.
The cost of owning a car includes the tags, licenses, and maintenance on top of the monthly car payments. Depending on your method, transportation or travel expenses will likely cost you anywhere from 10% to 15% per month.
Items that fall in transportation costs:
Gasoline
Car payment
Registration fees
Vehicle repairs and maintenance costs
New tires
4. Groceries
Groceries (not food from restaurants) and water encompass our basic needs. Store-bought groceries and water may require a large chunk of your income, though this category offers a lot of flexibility in terms of total spending.
Cooking dinner at home with groceries can help you save money, as many home-cooked meals can last multiple days. You should probably expect to spend between 10% and 15% of your monthly income on food expenses.
Items that fall in the food category:
Grocery budget
School lunch
5. Insurance
This broader category covers numerous subcategories that apply to different people. For example, if you live in a large, urban area with well-run public transportation, you may not have to worry about auto insurance.
Insurance may be classified under different categories depending on who you ask. Some pundits include health care in this category, for example. Depending on what type of insurance you need and your insurance premiums, you can look to spend anywhere between 10% to 25% of your income on this category.
Items that fall in the insurance category:
Life insurance
Auto insurance
Renters insurance
Homeowners insurance
Health insurance
Vision insurance
Disability insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Pet insurance
6. Health care
This category may have higher or lower priority depending on your specific health needs. Health and dental insurance in America is also quite costly—making them one of the primary reasons Americans go bankrupt.
Health care costs include annual checkups, clinic visits, prescription medications, and general medicines, like pain relievers. Health care is a variable expense because some months can be costly while others don’t have any expenses. Even when you don’t have any expenses, it’s a good idea to put away a little cash for a rainy day.
Items that fall in the health care category:
Anticipated copays
Prescription medications
Orthodontic work (braces)
Prescription eyeglasses
Primary care visits
Dental care visits
7. Savings
Everyone needs some kind of emergency fund to cover those unforeseen expenses. Regularly dedicating a small portion of your monthly income can help you save for major life events down the road.
There’s no hard line about what amount you should save, but a safe bet is between 5% and 10% of your monthly income. Saving this amount can help you handle emergency expenses and create a nest egg for a future big purchase.
Items that fall in the savings category:
Emergency fund
Health savings accounts
Fun money
Three to six months’ worth of expenses
Saving for a specific purchase (vehicle, college savings, vacation, etc.)
8. Retirement
While you could argue that retirement or a 401(k) is a type of savings, we refer to savings as money that can be used for any expense without penalty. Retirement accounts like IRAs help you save money that’s intended for use in the future. If you take money out of your retirement account before the preset time (unless you have a 457(b) account), you will incur a 10% tax penalty.
Much like savings, this is another category without a hard-line amount that you should contribute but should see at least 5% to 15% of your income. Ideally, you can primarily rely on this money once you’ve retired.
Items that fall in retirement:
Employer-sponsored retirement plan
401(k)
403(b)
Roth IRA
457(b)
9. Debt
This category applies to a significant portion of the U.S. population—especially those who have a student loan, credit card debt, or personal loans. Debt is a consideration that often has a lower priority level because we can pay it off over time. That said, it’s important to make sure you don’t fall behind on your payments as the penalties and fees can compound if left unchecked.
Because everyone’s situation is different, there’s no given amount of your monthly income you should dedicate to debt payments. We do, however, recommend that you pay more than the monthly minimum.
Items that fall in the debt category:
High-interest credit cards
Vehicle loan
Student loans
Personal loans
Medical bills
10. Personal Care and Hygiene Items
This category encompasses both wants and needs. Toilet paper and toothpaste should be considered “needs,” while designer clothes or expensive watches are examples of “wants.”
Because most personal expenses are lower priority, there’s no expected amount you should budget for this category, but it should remain relatively low on your list of priorities. Ensure that everything else above on this list is covered first, then look to see what you can spare on these purchases.
Items that fall in the personal care and hygiene category:
Shampoo
Deodorant
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Gym memberships
Shoes
Dry cleaning
Toiletries
Laundry detergent
Cleaning supplies
Diapers
Hair care
11. Entertainment
This category sits at the bottom of our list for a good reason, but it’s still essential to include. If you find yourself in a budget crunch, this is easily one of the first categories you should reduce until finances stabilize.
Sporting events, vacations, or streaming services like Netflix fall into this category. Given its otherwise low priority, there is no set amount you should spend on entertainment, and extra money can shift from month to month.
Items that fall in the entertainment category:
Books
Electronics
Restaurant dining
Concert tickets
Events
Vacations
Movies
Coffee
12. Other
This low-priority category covers pretty much anything else not already discussed. That can include property taxes that are a high priority in most circumstances, but you can often work with the IRS to get a debt repayment plan.
Various “other expenses” might also include donations, parking fees, child support, gifts, and school supplies, depending on your circumstances.
Some of these other expenses are significantly more important than others, but things like home improvement can be considered a kind of investment.
Items that fall in the other budget category:
Miscellaneous expenses
Child care
Holiday decor
Special occasions
Alimony
Anniversary presents
Tutoring
Private school
How Do I Make a Budget?
Considering the budget categories we presented in this article, one budgeting method that could work for you is a monthly budget spreadsheet. Or, you can use a budgeting app like Mint or another high-end competitor.
There are plenty of resources to use, so you should do lots of research on any budgeting apps that you consider downloading. Since not all of the apps work the same, search through different apps to find what best serves your budgetary needs.
What Is a 50/30/20 Budget?
Numerous financial pundits advocate for a 50/30/20 budget scheme, in which 50% of your income goes to necessary expenses, 30% goes to savings accounts, and 20% goes to wants and miscellaneous expenses. It’s also not uncommon to see people devote 30% of their funds to wants and 20% to savings.
This strategy often faces scrutiny during periods of economic strife, such as high inflation rates. Nevertheless, many budgeting apps may recommend this plan if your current income can support it.
Refine Your Budgeting Plans With Credit.com
The categories we’ve discussed today, along with their corresponding priority levels, can all vary from person to person. Building the best budget for your specific needs calls for a bit of craftiness and professional assistance.
Credit.com offers a wealth of tools and resources to help build credit, such as a free monthly budget template and services that allow you to report your utility and rent to the credit bureaus.
If you rent, rather than own, your home, you’re off the hook for homeowners insurance. But you may still need or want renters insurance, which can help cover your assets in the event of a calamity.
Like all other forms of insurance coverage, choosing a renters insurance policy involves choosing a deductible, which will have an effect on your overall policy cost.
Let’s learn more about how a renters insurance deductible works and how to choose one that’s right for your circumstances.
What Is a Renters Insurance Deductible?
If you have renters insurance and wind up needing to file a claim, the insurance company will still expect you to pay some of the cost. That out-of-pocket expense is called your deductible, and is separate from the premium you pay on a regular basis to keep the policy active.
For example, say you have a renters insurance policy that covers up to $20,000 worth of your belongings in the event of a covered loss. If your deductible is a flat $500, you’d pay $500, and the insurance company would pay $19,500 toward replacing your belongings.
Your deductible might also be calculated as a percentage of your property coverage. So in this example, if your deductible is 2%, you’d pay $400 (2% of $20,000) and the insurer would pay out $19,600.
Your premium, on the other hand, is the amount you pay monthly or annually in order to support the policy. In the case of renters insurance, that might be about $200 a year, or around $20 or less a month. 💡 Quick Tip: Online renters insurance can cover your belongings not just at home but also in your car and on vacation.
Choosing a Renters Insurance Deductible
You may be happy to know that you have some agency when it comes to choosing your renters insurance deductible. While many policies offer flat deductible options of either $500 or $1,000, certain companies do offer lower or higher amounts. Occasionally, you may even find a program available with a $0 or 0% deductible, which means you wouldn’t pay anything out of pocket if you were to make a claim.
Paying less during a time of loss probably sounds like an unmitigated good thing. But there is a bit of a catch. Generally speaking, the lower your deductible, the higher your premium, which means you’re paying more on a regular basis for a benefit you might get if a loss occurs.
On the other hand, if you hedge your bets and go for a high deductible, your regular premium payments will be lower — but you’ll be on the hook for a lot more if you do need to file a claim.
Recommended: What Does Renters Insurance Cover and How Does it Work
How Does Your Renters Insurance Deductible Affect Your Premiums?
While the inverse relationship between deductibles and premiums is fairly standard, other factors do play into your specific renters insurance costs.
For example, your insurer may cut you a break if you have certain security equipment installed, such as an alarm system or smoke alarm. On the other hand, if you live in what’s deemed a high-risk area or your credit score could use some work, your available coverage options may be more expensive, even if you choose a high deductible.
Renters Insurance by State
Because different states have different risk levels, both for criminal activity and natural damage, the average cost of renters insurance varies depending on what state you’re in. Here are the average monthly renters insurance premiums by state, per data from the Zebra:
• Alabama: $23
• Alaska: $15
• Arizona: $20
• Arkansas: $26
• California: $18
• Colorado: $17
• Connecticut: $24
• Delaware: $21
• District of Columbia: $20
• Florida: $21
• Georgia: $22
• Hawaii: $20
• Idaho: $16
• Illinois: $20
• Indiana: $28
• Iowa: $14
• Kansas: $21
• Kentucky: $17
• Louisiana: $38
• Maine: $12
• Maryland: $19
• Massachusetts: $18
• Michigan: $22
• Minnesota: $13
• Mississippi: $26
• Missouri: $24
• Montana: $19
• Nebraska: $16
• Nevada: $17
• New Hampshire: $14
• New Jersey: $19
• New Mexico: $19
• New York: $26
• North Carolina: $23
• North Dakota: $13
• Ohio: $18
• Oklahoma: $23
• Oregon: $16
• Pennsylvania: $19
• Rhode Island: $24
• South Carolina: $18
• South Dakota: $14
• Tennessee: $19
• Texas: $32
• Utah: $14
• Vermont: $9
• Virginia: $18
• Washington: $14
• West Virginia: $24
• Wisconsin: $14
• Wyoming: $11
Keep in mind that your specific monthly price will vary further based on your city and even your neighborhood, as well as many other factors. Check with your insurer for actual insurance premium prices available to you.
Recommended: Why Do Landlords Require Renters Insurance?
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Renters Insurance Overview
Renters insurance can be a truly valuable tool if you suffer a loss as a renter. While it doesn’t cover the structure of your home the way homeowners insurance does — the building’s owner is responsible for those costs — renters insurance does cover your belongings in case of damage or theft. It also covers personal liability costs in the event that someone is injured while at your home and sues you.
Some landlords require renters insurance, while others don’t. But for most renters, it’s a good idea to at least consider it, especially since it’s usually pretty affordable. (Many renters insurance programs cost less than $200 per year or about $15 to $20 monthly.)
Do keep in mind that renters insurance, like all types of insurance coverage, doesn’t cover everything.
What Does Renters Insurance Cover?
Generally, renters insurance offers coverage in the following four categories:
• Personal property: This covers your possessions.
• Personal liability: This would take care of the medical or legal fees you might incur if someone is hurt while at your home.
• Loss-of-use or additional living expenses: This covers the money you’d need to spend to find yourself a place to stay and food to eat if your home was, for some reason, rendered unlivable.
• Additional coverages: These may be purchased to cover items and services that wouldn’t otherwise be eligible for coverage on your policy (such as lock replacement).
Keep in mind also that certain high-value categories of items may have coverage limits, though these can often be exceeded if you purchase a separate rider or endorsement for them. These categories may include cash, jewelry, watchers, fur clothing, and firearms. 💡 Quick Tip: It’s important to create an inventory of your personal possessions in case you ever need to file a renters insurance claim. One easy way to do that is to walk through your home and photograph all your belongings — especially anything of value.
The Takeaway
Renters insurance is a kind of insurance that can cover your belongings and personal liability if you’re a renter. Like other forms of insurance, a deductible likely applies. The lower the deductible you choose, the higher your premium is likely to be.
While insurance isn’t anyone’s favorite bill to pay, it’s the kind of thing you’re grateful for when you do turn out to need it.
Looking to protect your belongings? SoFi has partnered with Lemonade to offer renters insurance. Policies are easy to understand and apply for, with instant quotes available. Prices start at just $5 per month.
Explore renters insurance options offered through SoFi via Experian.
Photo credit: iStock/Edwin Tan
Insurance not available in all states. Experian is a registered service mark of Experian Personal Insurance Agency, Inc. Social Finance, Inc. (“SoFi”) is compensated by Experian for each customer who purchases a policy through Experian from the site.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
What can you do if you’re buying or living in a home that’s considered “high risk” because of its location or other factors, and you can’t find the insurance protection you need? In some states, including Florida and California, where insurers are limiting their coverage or exiting the market altogether, it can be challenging to find a renters or homeowners policy. You may even find the insurer you’ve had for years is no longer willing to provide coverage.
There’s no need to panic just yet, or give up on your efforts to get the policy you want or need. There may be options you haven’t thought about that are just a few computer taps away.
What Makes a Home, Area, or State High Risk?
There are a few different factors that can make a home, neighborhood, region, or state high risk when it comes to getting insurance coverage. Some of these factors may affect homeowners only, while others can affect both homeowners and renters.
Sometimes a home is determined to be high risk because it’s fallen into a state of disrepair. The insurance company may say, for example, that the home needs a new roof, the foundation is unsafe, or the plumbing or electricity needs updating. If that’s the case, following through on those repairs may make it easier to keep or qualify for a traditional homeowners policy.
It’s also possible that the way the home is constructed — with certain types of building materials or a roof style that doesn’t meet the insurer’s underwriting standards — is making it harder to get insurance. Or it could be that the home is in an area that makes it more vulnerable to certain crimes, such as burglary or vandalism. Sometimes, a person’s own history (a criminal background, bankruptcy, or too many past claims) could lead an insurer to cancel a policy or say no to a new one.
Increasingly, it’s the propensity for serious, damaging weather that can cause an entire region or state to be considered high-risk. In California, wildfires are one reason insurers cite for pulling out. In Louisiana, it’s flooding. And in Florida, insurers are leaving the state because of the expensive damage hurricanes and tropical storms can cause. 💡 Quick Tip: A basic homeowners insurance plan doesn’t cover floods, earthquakes, or sinkholes. If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, you may want to look into supplemental coverage.
What Can You Do If You’re Denied Coverage?
Though homeowners and renters insurance policies aren’t mandated by any state or federal laws, mortgage lenders and landlords can and often do require a certain amount of coverage. Even if yours doesn’t, you may find it makes sense to get a policy to protect yourself, your home, and/or your belongings.
It can be frustrating and scary to find out you’ve been denied the insurance you want or need, or that the policy you have is being canceled. Here are a few things you can do to find protection:
Shop Around
There are many insurance companies out there, so don’t feel as though you have to give up just because the carrier you wanted won’t cover you. You may be able to find a similar or better policy online, or you could search the old-fashioned way and call around. While you’re looking, try not to limit your options based on brand names or because you have car insurance or another type of policy through a certain company.
If you’re buying homeowners insurance: Before you start shopping, consider how much and what types of coverage you need and what your lender requires. Depending on where you live, you may need to buy additional protection for flooding, earthquakes, sinkholes, etc. This coverage is usually not a part of a basic homeowners policy.
If you’re buying a home, you may want to ask the current homeowners or your new neighbors what coverage they think is necessary.
If you’re buying renters insurance: Keep in mind that even though your landlord might have insurance that covers the building you’re living in, that policy won’t cover your possessions should they be damaged or stolen. And the landlord’s policy probably won’t pay for additional living expenses if you need to move out while your unit undergoes repairs.
As you shop renters policies, it’s important to compare apples to apples, and to be sure you’re getting the renters insurance coverage you might need in a worst-case scenario. Remember: Most renters policies won’t cover damage from flooding. To be sure you’re protected, you’ll likely need to purchase a separate renters policy from the National Flood Insurance Program, which is managed by FEMA.
Use a Broker or Independent Insurance Agent
If you don’t have the time to shop for a policy yourself, you may want to hire an insurance broker or independent insurance agent to get quotes from multiple insurers for you. Before you get started in this process, it’s a good idea to be clear on how your insurance professional will be paid (fee, commission, or both), and how broad or limited the policy search will be.
Contact Your State Department of Insurance
The consumer division of your state insurance department can provide you with a list of insurers that are writing policies in your area. And they may be able to help you work with your current provider regarding a nonrenewal — that is, if the company isn’t pulling out of the state altogether.
Ask Your Current Insurance Professional for Advice
If your current insurance company is leaving your region or state and you need to change your homeowners insurance, your representative — who is familiar with your policy needs — may have suggestions for which companies you could try next.
Consider a FAIR Plan
Many states have Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) plans available for homeowners who can’t get a traditional homeowners policy. FAIR insurance coverage is different for each state, but generally, these are bare-bones policies provided by a pool of insurance companies. They often do not include personal liability coverage, and you may have to make upgrades to your property to get or keep your policy.
A FAIR plan may be your last resort if you can’t get a policy anywhere else. Still, it’s important to be clear on what you are getting — and what your premium will be — before moving forward.
Look into Beach and Windstorm Plans
If you live in a coastal state that is prone to wind and hail damage, you may want to look into getting a beach and windstorm insurance plan. These plans are similar to FAIR plans and can provide coverage to homeowners in areas that aren’t insured through the voluntary insurance market.
Recommended: Renters and Homeowners Insurance Definitions
Can You Go Without Insurance If You Can’t Get Coverage?
Although you aren’t legally required to purchase a renters or homeowners policy, you may not have a choice. If you’re renting, your landlord might say it’s a must. And if you’re buying or still owe money on your home, your mortgage company will let you know how much homeowners insurance you need.
If you can’t get a policy, or if the coverage is deemed insufficient, your mortgage company might buy “force-placed” insurance for your home. With force-placed insurance, the lender typically pays upfront for the insurance, then adds the premium cost to your monthly mortgage payment. You won’t have control over the type of coverage you get, or the policy limits, and it might be more expensive than the policy you would purchase for yourself.
You also may be required to have homeowners insurance if you live in a condominium or co-op.
Recommended: Is Homeowners Insurance Required to Buy a Home?
What Are the Downsides of Going Without Coverage?
Even if you don’t have to get insurance, you may want to seriously consider the downsides of going without coverage. You might discover that the security a policy can offer is worth the extra effort or cost involved with finding coverage.
If you’re a homeowner: It’s quite likely your home is your biggest asset, and insurance can help you protect that investment and your overall financial wellness. Your homeowners policy doesn’t just cover the structure you live in; it also insures your belongings and provides liability protection in case of an injury or property damage.
If you’re a renter: Your personal property (furniture, electronics, clothes, jewelry, etc.) may be worth more than you think, and renters insurance can help you pay to replace belongings that are damaged or stolen. Renters insurance also typically includes coverage for property damage, or if a guest is accidentally hurt, or if your pet bites someone.
Worried about how much renters insurance costs and if it’s worth it? Usually, renters insurance is much less expensive than homeowners insurance, so you may want to at least check the price before passing on coverage. 💡 Quick Tip: Next time you review your budget, consider making room for additional insurance coverage. Think of it as an investment that can help protect you from a major financial loss.
The Takeaway
It can be frustrating and stressful to learn that you can’t get the insurance coverage you need for your home and belongings, or that you’re losing the coverage you thought you could count on. But just because one company won’t offer you a policy doesn’t mean you don’t have other options. You may have to spend a little extra time searching for the right policy, though, or get a little help finding the appropriate amount of coverage at an affordable price.
When the unexpected happens, it’s good to know you have a plan to protect your loved ones and your finances. SoFi has teamed up with some of the best insurance companies in the industry to provide members with fast, easy, and reliable insurance.
Find affordable auto, life, homeowners, and renters insurance with SoFi Protect.
FAQ
Is homeowners insurance required to buy a home?
While homeowners insurance isn’t required by state or federal laws, if you’re financing the home, your mortgage lender will likely require that you have a certain amount of coverage.
Is renters insurance required?
Renters insurance isn’t required by law, but your landlord or property management company may require that you purchase a renters policy.
How much renters insurance do I need?
To determine how much renters insurance you should purchase, you may want to do a quick inventory of what you own, including clothing, jewelry, electronics, artwork, furniture, etc. Then, using receipts if you have them, estimate how much it’s all worth.
How much homeowners insurance do I need?
If you’re financing your home, your mortgage lender will likely require a certain amount of insurance coverage. But you may want to purchase additional coverage based on your assets and the types of protection you want. Your insurance company can help you determine the appropriate amount of coverage.
Photo credit: iStock/svetikd
Insurance not available in all states. Experian is a registered service mark of Experian Personal Insurance Agency, Inc. Social Finance, Inc. (“SoFi”) is compensated by Experian for each customer who purchases a policy through Experian from the site.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
A standard renters insurance policy typically covers your personal belongings should they be damaged, destroyed or stolen. Renters insurance also covers liability in case someone is injured or someone else’s property is damaged, as well as any medical payments. Lastly, it can pay for additional living expenses should your place become uninhabitable.
So, how does renters insurance work? Let’s talk about what renters insurance is, the specifics of what it covers, and how much it might cost to hop on a policy.
Renters Insurance Basics
Renters insurance offers financial protection to tenants in case anything were to happen to their personal property and in the instance of legal liability.
If you’re a renter, you may think that your landlord will foot the bill should there be a break-in and some of your belongings get stolen, or if there’s a fire in your apartment building. While a landlord might have insurance in place to cover the building, their insurance won’t cover your items should they get damaged or stolen, or pay for additional living expenses should you need to temporarily move out while your unit undergoes repairs. Rather, these are the types of things that renters insurance covers.
While renters insurance offers similar coverage to homeowners insurance (aside from covering the building, which is the landlord’s responsibility), it is generally much less costly. Some landlords require renters insurance, but not all do. 💡 Quick Tip: Online renters insurance can cover your belongings not just at home but also in your car and on vacation.
What Is Covered by Renters Insurance?
In a nutshell, standard renters insurance covers four main areas:
• Personal possessions
• Liability
• Living expenses
• Medical payments
Let’s take a closer look at each area.
Personal Property Damage
Renters insurance will cover your personal belongings if they are lost or stolen from common incidences such as:
• Theft
• Fire
• Smoke
• Lightning
• Vandalism
• Explosions
• Water-related damage from utilities on the property
• Windstorms
• Any other disasters, risks or other events listed in your policy
As mentioned before, unlike homeowners insurance, a standard renters policy typically doesn’t provide financial protection and pay for repairs to the actual structure of the building in which you live.
Renters insurance also will not cover damage to personal property during an earthquake or flood, but you can get add-on insurance or a separate policy altogether so that both are covered. If you get comprehensive renters insurance, damage and destruction from hurricanes and storms can be covered, but this type of policy usually costs more.
Liability
A standard renters insurance policy will also protect you financially should you, a family member or, in some cases, a pet cause injury or damage to other people or to their personal property. It could cover the costs of lawsuits, up to the limit of the policy, and the expense of repairing or replacing another person’s property or belongings if you are at fault.
However, it won’t replace your personal belongings or property should you, a member of your family, or your pet cause damage to your own property.
For example, let’s say you’re walking your dog, and your dog has a run-in with another canine. Chaos ensues, and your dog damages a neighbor’s fence. In that case, your renters’ insurance policy will pay to replace the fence. On the other hand, if your dog is chasing a squirrel while on her leash and tears up your mailbox, you’re out of luck. Your renters insurance policy won’t cover that.
Living Expenses
Should you become unable to live in your home and need to temporarily move out due to a covered natural disaster like a tornado, or another incident or event like damage from a fire or a storm, a standard renters insurance policy can cover the cost of additional living expenses.
This can include costs such as meals out and accommodations. It could also pay for pet boarding, the cost of doing laundry outside of your home, and storage costs. What’s covered would be based on your normal living expenses and lifestyle.
Medical Payments
Medical payments are covered under the liability portion of your insurance policy. If someone were injured in your home — say a delivery person slips and falls on your premises or your dog bites a neighbor in your apartment building — your policy can cover medical bills or funeral expenses up to a certain amount. On the other hand, if you, your family member, or your pet were injured, renters insurance would not cover that.
Unlike the liability portion of a renters insurance policy, medical payments coverage will pay for medical bills no matter who is at fault.
Recommended: Choosing a Renters Insurance Deductible
How to File a Claim
Need to file a renters insurance claim? Here’s the general process you can expect to follow:
1. Document the damage or loss: To file a renters insurance claim, you’ll first want to gather as many details about the incident as possible, including what exactly happened, when and where it happened, who was involved and what was damaged or taken. Take detailed notes and photos.
2. Tell your landlord: Next, notify your landlord. That way, if there’s any structural damage to where you live, they can handle it on their end.
3. File a police report if necessary: If there was damage to your property or loss of items due to burglary, theft, vandalism or an incident with ill intent, you’ll want to file a police report.
4. Reach out to your insurance company: You’ll then want to reach out to your insurance company and file a claim. Generally this must be done within a certain timeframe, such as two or three days. You’ll typically need to provide your policy number as well as all of the details and supporting evidence you’ve gathered. This will help the insurer to gauge what will and won’t be covered. Often, someone will come by to assess the damage.
5. Make any updates if needed: If there were any unexpected or additional costs along the way, such as staying at a short-term rental home while your place gets repaired, meals out because you couldn’t use your kitchen or personal possessions you later realized were damaged or missing, then you can update your claim along the way.
💡 Quick Tip: It’s important to create an inventory of your personal possessions in case you ever need to file a renters insurance claim. One easy way to do that is to walk through your home and photograph all your belongings — especially anything of value.
How Much Is Renters Insurance?
Average annual cost of renters insurance: $15-$30 a month
According to the most recent data from National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), the average cost of a renters insurance policy is $15 to $30 a month. However, the cost can vary depending on a handful of factors, including:
• Where you live
• Type and amount of coverage
• The size and construction of your building
• Your deductible
• Security and prevention measures in place
• Any discounts
• Your claims history
Recommended: Most Affordable Renters Insurance for Apartments
The Takeaway
While not required by your landlord, renters insurance can help cover your personal belongings, additional living expenses and liability should there be an incident, disaster, or theft where you live. To figure out how much coverage you need, it’s a good idea to take inventory of your items.
Looking to protect your belongings? SoFi has partnered with Lemonade to offer renters insurance. Policies are easy to understand and apply for, with instant quotes available. Prices start at just $5 per month.
Explore renters insurance options offered through SoFi via Experian.
Photo credit: iStock/humanmade
Insurance not available in all states. Experian is a registered service mark of Experian Personal Insurance Agency, Inc. Social Finance, Inc. (“SoFi”) is compensated by Experian for each customer who purchases a policy through Experian from the site.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Homeowners almost certainly have homeowners insurance. It’s just part of the deal that comes with purchasing a home. However, have you ever thought about renters insurance to cover the space you’re renting or leasing? While it’s not always mandatory to have, it’s a smart and inexpensive investment to budget for and purchase.
So, how much is renters insurance and why do you need it? We’re going to answer all of your questions and hopefully convince you to get your own renters insurance policy.
What is renters insurance and why do I need it?
Like any insurance policy, renters insurance is a way to financially safeguard yourself and your property from damage, loss or theft.
When homeowners buy homeowners insurance, they are protecting the home itself and the contents inside. While renters don’t own the building that they live in, they do have personal property inside of the apartment that has monetary value. Renters insurance is an insurance type specifically for those who rent or lease that will cover their assets.
Landlords or apartment owners will have insurance policies in place that protect and cover their buildings and physical property. But, it won’t cover the tenant’s personal belongings if something happens. That’s why renters insurance is something you’ll want to have. Here are a few scenarios where renters insurance would come in handy:
Theft: If you experience a robbery or burglary, renters insurance would cover the cost of the stolen items
Vandalism: If someone vandalizes your apartment, renters insurance would cover the damage and repairs
Fire: If there is a house fire that damages the apartment, renters insurance covers the cost of loss
Plumbing issues: If you have major plumbing issues that damage the apartment, you’d be covered
Injuries that happen in your apartment: If someone else is hurt within your apartment, renters insurance covers their medical fees
These are some, not all, of the situations that renters insurance would cover. Keep in mind that renters insurance will cover a good variety of personal possessions, but it may not cover every single item in your place. It’s a good idea to know what is and isn’t covered and to protect yourself from the worst-case scenario as things happen to everyone, including renters.
How much is renters insurance?
Okay, so we’ve convinced you that renters insurance is a good idea, but you’re wondering how much renters insurance is per month? After all, if it’s a monthly expense you’ll need to budget for it. Good news — renters insurance cost is relatively inexpensive.
While there isn’t a flat rate for all renters insurance policies, generally, it costs $15 to $30 per month or up to $360 annually. When you think about the cost of everything you own— clothes, computers, TVs and tech — $30 a month isn’t too hefty a price to protect your possessions.
Depending on the insurance company, you can either pay monthly, bi-annually or annually. Sometimes, you’ll even get a discount if you pay for the full year in full, making the month-to-month cost even cheaper.
Factors that influence the cost of renters insurance
Renters insurance costs will vary by person, place and policy. If you’re considering purchasing a renters insurance policy, you can do some comparison shopping to make sure you’re getting the best bargain.
As you’re searching for a policy that fits your needs, here are a few things to keep in mind that’ll influence your cost:
Coverage types
The two most common types of renters insurance are personal property insurance and liability insurance. If you purchase a plan with both coverage types, you’ll pay more per month.
Personal property insurance
This type of plan covers your personal property and everything inside the apartment.
Liability insurance
This type of plan covers you if an injury happens to someone in your apartment and they file a claim against you.
Location
The cost of renters insurance varies by neighborhood, city and state. Generally, if the housing market itself is more expensive in a certain area, the cost of an insurance policy will probably be higher, too.
Pets
While dogs are man’s best friend, they aren’t when it comes to getting a renters insurance policy. Unfortunately, having a pet may increase the cost of your renters insurance policy because pets can cause additional damage to the apartment.
Previous claims
If you’ve had renters insurance in the past and filed several claims, your premium will likely be higher compared to people who have never filed claims.
Credit history
Credit is king and a higher credit score will equal lower monthly payments.
Coverage limits
With a renters insurance policy, you can choose how much coverage or protection you want. For example, let’s say you took inventory of your items and assessed that they added up to $10,000 worth of goods. You’d want to get a renters insurance policy with a coverage limit that was at least $10,000 to cover your losses. As your coverage limit increases, so will the cost of your monthly payment.
How do I find renters insurance?
Almost all insurance agencies will offer renters insurance policies. If you have car insurance or another type of insurance plan, you could bundle and save by adding an additional renters insurance policy.
You can get quotes from each of them to see where you’ll get the best deal. Here are a few insurance companies to consider when looking for a policy that fits your needs:
Secure your apartment with an insurance plan
You want to feel safe and secure in your apartment and know that you’re financially protected should something happen to your home.
Renters insurance is one way to secure your possessions and safeguard yourself from an emergency. At a relatively low cost, you can save yourself thousands of dollars and lots of stress in the worst-case scenario.
The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. Readers are encouraged to seek professional legal or financial advice as they may deem it necessary.
Sage Singleton is a freelance writer with a passion for literature and words. She enjoys writing articles that will inspire, educate and influence readers. She loves that words have the power to create change and make a positive impact in the world. Some of her work has been featured on LendingTree, Venture Beat, Architectural Digest, Porch.com and Homes.com. In her free time, she loves traveling, reading and learning French.
ResidentShield offers renters insurance in most U.S. states.
No credit check required to get a policy.
Your rate won’t go up if you file a claim.
Bedbug coverage may be available.
Animal liability coverage may be limited.
ResidentShield
ResidentShield offers renters insurance in most U.S. states.
No credit check required to get a policy.
Your rate won’t go up if you file a claim.
Bedbug coverage may be available.
Animal liability coverage may be limited.
ResidentShield isn’t an insurance company. It’s an agency that works with third-party insurers to find you a renters policy, with availability in most U.S. states.
ResidentShield partners with certain apartment communities across the country. If you live in one of those communities, the company will make your life a little easier by prefilling certain parts of your application. But you don’t need to live in a partner complex to get ResidentShield renters insurance.
Policies from ResidentShield stand out in a couple of ways. First, the application process doesn’t involve a credit check. That’s useful for renters with poor credit, who generally pay higher renters insurance rates in most states.
Second, ResidentShield promises that your premium won’t go up if you file a claim. That’s a rare perk in the renters insurance industry.
But pet owners will want to take a close look at ResidentShield’s animal liability coverage, which may fall short of what you’d find elsewhere.
Why doesn’t this company have a NerdWallet star rating?
We make every effort to rate each company we review. However, we’re sometimes unable to provide a NerdWallet star rating for insurers that work with multiple third parties to underwrite their policies. That’s because the quality of the policy you get may vary depending on the coverage options, financial strength and other factors of each separate underwriting company.
Why you can trust NerdWallet
State availability
ResidentShield sells renters insurance in Washington, D.C., and every state except for Alaska and Hawaii.
ResidentShield renters insurance coverage
Landlords sometimes require tenants to purchase a policy with a minimum amount of renters liability insurance, but otherwise, the coverage you choose is generally up to you. Below are the four types of coverage included in most standard renters policies:
Type of coverage
What it does
Covers your clothing, furniture, electronics and other belongings.
Pays for hotel stays, restaurant meals or other expenses if you have to live elsewhere while your home undergoes covered repairs.
Pays out if you’re responsible for injuries to other people or damage to their property.
Covers injuries to other people in your home, regardless of fault.
One nice feature of a ResidentShield policy is that it covers your personal belongings on a replacement cost basis. With this type of coverage, the company will pay you enough after a claim to buy new replacements for damaged or stolen items.
Some renters policies pay only the actual cash value of lost items, which reflects depreciation. Because things like furniture and electronics tend to lose value over time, having actual cash value coverage means your claim payout could come up well short of what you need to buy new items.
Depending on where you live, you may be able to add some or all of the following to your policy:
Water and sewer coverage, which pays for damage to your belongings if a water line or sump pump backs up into your home.
Pet damage coverage, which pays to repair things like carpet stains or scratch marks from your furry buddy.
Extra animal liability coverage for medical and/or legal expenses if your pet injures someone or damages their property. (The personal liability coverage included with your policy may be limited for scenarios involving animals.) Learn more about dog liability insurance.
Equipment protection coverage, which pays for physical damage to laptops, phones and other electronic gadgets.
Tenant damage coverage, which pays for property damage you cause to your rented house or unit.
Earthquake coverageto repair or replace your belongings after an earthquake (available in California only).
Discounts
ResidentShield offers a discount of up to 20% for renters in a senior living community. You may also be able to save money by paying your renters insurance premium in full, rather than in installments.
Consumer experience
Website: You can use the ResidentShield website to get a renters insurance quote, file a claim or see basic information about the company’s policies.
Claims: You can file a claim online or call 800-822-2997. According to the company, your premium won’t go up after you file a claim, which is unusual in the insurance industry. Rates typically go up nearly 19% on average after a renters insurance claim, according to NerdWallet’s rate analysis.
Customer service: For support, email [email protected], call 800-566-1186 or use the company’s chat feature, which offers both automated and live assistance. Customer service is available on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT.
Where ResidentShield stands out
Replacement cost coverage for personal belongings. Many insurance policies charge extra for this type of coverage, while ResidentShield includes it.
No penalties for poor credit or prior claims. Renters with a patchy credit history or a past insurance claim often pay more for their policy. That’s not the case with ResidentShield.
Where ResidentShield falls short
Animal liability coverage. Most renters insurance covers dog bites and other animal liability claims up to your full personal liability limit (often $100,000). But many of the quotes we got from ResidentShield had lower levels of animal liability coverage, such as $10,000, unless we were willing to pay extra. The average cost of a dog bite claim was more than $64,000 in 2022, the most recent data available, according to State Farm and the Insurance Information Institute.
Availability in Alaska and Hawaii. Renters in these states will need to look elsewhere for coverage.
Current Product
Complaints to NAIC
No data
Complaints to NAIC
Close to expected
Complaints to NAIC
More than expected
Coverage options
No data
Coverage options
More than average
Coverage options
More than average
Discounts
No data
Discounts
Great set of discounts
Discounts
Average set of discounts
Bottom line
ResidentShield offers renters insurance in most U.S. states.
Bottom line
Renters insurance coverage with a few useful add-ons.
Bottom line
Straightforward policies from a tech-centric, mission-driven company.
Other renters insurance companies to consider
Not ready to make a decision? You may be interested in these other renters insurance companies:
Frequently asked questions
What other types of insurance does ResidentShield offer?
ResidentShield doesn’t sell any other types of insurance (such as auto insurance), so it’s not a good bet if you’re looking to bundle your policies. However, it does offer one other service to renters: an alternative to a traditional security deposit. Instead of paying a large security deposit that you get back when you move out, you can pay a smaller, nonrefundable amount to reduce your move-in costs.
Can I include my roommate on a ResidentShield policy?
How much is ResidentShield renters insurance?
ResidentShield advertises policies starting at 43 cents a day, which adds up to about $157 per year or $13 per month. Find out the average cost of renters insurance in your state.
Home insurance is meant to protect your finances: your house, your belongings and your assets. But not all policies are created equal. What they cover depends on whether you own or rent, and whether the residence is a house, a condo or a mobile home.
Many homeowners insurance policies are based on a set of templates issued by the Insurance Services Office (ISO), which is why these templates are sometimes called ISO forms. (The Insurance Services Office is now part of analytics firm Verisk.) Although you may not see technical terms like “HO-3” or “named perils” when you’re shopping for a policy, knowing the different coverage types can help you better understand what you’re buying.
This guide breaks down the different types of home insurance policies to help you understand which policy is right for your needs.
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Answer a few questions to see custom quotes and find the right policy for you.
Named perils vs. open perils
Before diving into the different types of home insurance and what they cover, it’s helpful to understand how perils work. A “peril” is an event that can cause damage or loss to your home and your belongings.
Some parts of your home insurance policy may operate on a “named perils” basis, meaning you’re only insured against the specific events listed in your policy. Others may operate on an “open perils” or “all-risk” basis, meaning you’re insured against all events except listed exclusions.
Understanding what types of perils a home insurance policy covers is vital. Generally, open peril policies provide the most coverage.
Types of home insurance coverage
Standard homeowners insurance policies generally include these six types of coverage, unless otherwise noted in the policy:
Coverage type
What it does
Typical amount
Covers damage to the home and attached structures, such as a porch.
Enough to rebuild your home.
Covers stand-alone structures on your property, such as a fence or shed.
10% of dwelling coverage.
Pays to repair or replace stolen or damaged belongings.
50% to 70% of dwelling coverage.
Helps pay temporary living expenses while your home is being repaired.
20% of dwelling coverage.
Pays if you injure someone or cause property damage unintentionally or through neglect.
$100,000 to $500,000.
Pays to treat someone injured on your property, regardless of who’s at fault. It also pays if you, a family member or a pet injures someone away from your home.
$1,000 to $5,000.
The most common types of home insurance policies
Insurance providers typically sell several types of home insurance policies, each of which offers varying levels of coverage. It’s important to read the details of your policy to understand what is and isn’t covered.
HO-1: Basic form policy
An HO-1 policy is the most bare-bones type of home insurance. It generally covers the physical structure of your house. It may sometimes include coverage for other structures, personal property, additional living costs and liability.
An HO-1 policy typically covers damage caused by these 10 named perils:
Fire or lightning.
Windstorm or hail.
Explosion.
Riot or civil commotion.
Damage caused by aircraft or vehicles.
Vandalism.
Volcanic eruption.
Even if an HO-1 policy is available to you, many homeowners opt for an HO-3 policy instead because it offers more coverage.
HO-2: Broad form policy
HO-2 policies are sometimes known as “broad form” policies because they cover more perils than HO-1 policies, but their coverage is still limited. In addition to the 10 perils covered by HO-1 policies, the HO-2 policy adds coverage for:
Falling objects.
Weight of ice, snow or sleet.
Accidental overflow or discharge of water or steam.
Freezing of plumbing, heating or air conditioning.
Sudden and accidental tearing apart, cracking, burning or bulging of certain household systems.
Sudden and accidental damage from artificially generated electrical current.
If a peril that damages your house or belongings isn’t explicitly named in the policy, the loss won’t be covered.
Some HO-2 policies also provide personal liability coverage.
HO-3: Special form policy
An HO-3 policy is the most popular type of home insurance. It’s known as a “special form” or “open perils” policy. It insures the structure of your home against all causes of damage except those specifically listed as exclusions in your policy.
Here are common exclusions:
Earthquake.
Power failure.
War and nuclear accidents.
Intentional damage.
Government actions.
Birds, vermin, rodents or insects.
Damage caused by your pets.
Smog, rust or corrosion.
Wear and tear.
Pollution.
Personal belongings like furniture, electronics and clothes are covered on a “named perils” basis. That means only damage caused by events specifically listed in your policy are covered. These typically include:
Fire or lightning.
Windstorm or hail.
Explosion.
Riot or civil commotion.
Damage caused by aircraft or vehicles.
Vandalism or mischief.
Volcanic eruption.
Falling objects.
Weight of snow, ice or sleet.
Accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam.
Sudden or accidental tearing, cracking, burning or bulging.
Freezing of plumbing or HVAC systems.
Damage due to artificially generated electrical current.
🤓Nerdy Tip
You’ll typically need separate flood insurance or earthquake insurance if you live in an area that’s prone to these risks, as they are not covered by standard home insurance policies.
HO-4: Contents broad form policy
An HO-4 policy is commonly referred to as renters insurance. It’s designed specifically for individuals who are renting a home or an apartment. The main purpose of this policy is to cover your belongings, not the building itself.
An HO-4 policy safeguards your stuff — like furniture, clothes and electronics — against the same 16 perils covered by an HO-3 policy. It also includes personal liability and additional living expenses coverage.
The actual building you live in is not covered under your HO-4 policy. It’s your landlord’s responsibility to insure the structure of the building and to have it fixed if it’s damaged.
HO-5: Comprehensive policy
An HO-5 policy is like the gold standard of home insurance. It’s also called a comprehensive policy because it typically offers higher coverage limits for personal belongings and personal liability than an HO-3 policy.
An HO-5 policy covers your personal belongings on a replacement cost basis. So if something happens to them, you get the amount it costs to replace them, not just their current depreciated value. In addition, an HO-5 policy covers your belongings on an open perils basis. It also provides coverage for loss-of-use and medical payments for others.
HO-6: Unit owners policy
An HO-6 policy is for condo owners. It’s often called “walls-in coverage” because it protects what’s inside your condo, like the floors, ceilings, walls and any renovations you’ve made. It insures against the same perils as an HO-3 policy and includes coverage for your personal belongings, additional living expenses and personal liability.
But here’s the catch — this policy doesn’t cover the entire building or common areas. That’s usually handled by your condo association’s insurance. You pay for this through your condo or HOA fees. Check what your association’s policy covers to avoid any gaps or overlaps.
HO-7: Mobile home policy
An HO-7 policy is for mobile homes. It includes coverage for your home, your personal property, other structures, loss of use, personal liability and medical payments.
Similar to HO-3 policies, HO-7 policies work on an open perils basis for your mobile home’s structure and a named perils basis for your belongings. Read more about mobile home insurance.
HO-8: Modified coverage policy
HO-8 insurance is for homes more than 40 years old where it might cost more to rebuild than the house is worth. This includes historic houses or ones built in unique ways.
HO-8 insurance covers your dwelling and personal property on a named perils basis. Instead of paying the full replacement cost for damages to your home’s structure, an HO-8 policy typically reimburses the actual cash value. This means it pays you what your home is worth in cash at the time of the claim, not what it costs to rebuild.
HO-14: Contents comprehensive policy
The HO-14 policy is an advanced version of the traditional HO-4 renters insurance. Unlike the HO-4, which covers named perils, the HO-14 operates on an open perils basis, meaning it covers all risks unless they’re specifically excluded. Also, while the HO-4 provides actual cash value coverage, the HO-14 insures your items at their full replacement cost.
HO-14 insurance may come with unique features like coverage for home-sharing activities, a $500 allowance for bed bug treatments and a $300 provision for hard drive data recovery.
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The difference between HO-3 and HO-5 policies
Both HO-3 and HO-5 policies cover your home’s structure, personal belongings, liability, medical payments and additional living expense coverage. The big difference is how they insure your belongings.
HO-3 policies use open perils for the house’s structure but named perils for personal belongings. If the policy doesn’t specifically exclude a risk for the house, it’s covered. But for belongings, it only covers listed events.
HO-5 policies are more comprehensive. They use open perils for both the home and personal belongings, covering all risks unless specifically excluded. Because HO-5 offers broader coverage, it’s often more expensive than HO-3.