Does renters insurance cover pets?

If you're a pet-loving renter, you might wonder whether your furry companions are covered by renters insurance. While the coverage for pets included in many renters insurance policies can help shield you from certain unexpected losses, it’s important to know that it differs from the well-being protection provided by standard pet insurance.

This article explains how a renters insurance policy from American Family Insurance can help protect you and your pet. It also addresses its limitations and provides information about additional coverage options that may give you more peace of mind.

How does standard renters insurance cover your pets?

Imagine your playful pup accidentally chews a guest’s phone, or your curious cat scratches a visitor. Our standard renters insurance policy helps provide liability coverages that apply to your pet, offering financial protection from liability claims after a covered event. This includes accident-related lawsuits, medical expenses and property damage caused by your animal.

Bodily injury liability

Bodily injury liability is typically included in your standard renters insurance policy. It helps protect you from injury-related losses caused by your pets after a covered loss up to your policy's limit. Whether it’s a bite or other physical harm your pet may inflict on others, this coverage helps you manage unexpected damages such as medical bills.

Property damage liability

The property damage liability portion of your renters policy may help pay for covered losses up to your policy limit. It's designed to help protect you if your pet damages someone's property. For example, if your dog breaks your guest's new laptop, your renters insurance may help pay for a replacement.

Renters insurance coverage limits for pets

Our renters policies offer a range of liability limit options, up to $1,000,000. If you need more clarification on your requirements, an American Family agent can help you select a limit that fits your needs. You can also get a custom renters insurance quote online.

Additional coverage for your pets

Personal liability umbrella coverage

For those seeking extra protection, personal umbrella liability insurance can help provide peace of mind.* It becomes active after reaching your renters policy's liability limits and can help cover other accidents for which you may be held liable.

Pet health insurance

Owning a pet is expensive – especially if they get sick or injured. Pet health insurance helps you prepare for unexpected medical expenses in the event your pet develops an illness or is accidentally hurt.

Types of coverage and cost vary. We suggest you explore the range of pet insurance options available and find what works best for you and your situation.

What’s not covered by pet liability insurance?

While your renters insurance helps protect you from various pet-related accidents, there are some events it can’t cover. For example, if your pet damages anyone in your household’s belongings, the items won’t be protected. Pet damage to your rental property, such as its carpet and woodwork, is also excluded from your policy.

Dog and pet restrictions for renters and renters insurance

You may encounter dog and pet restrictions when applying for a renters policy or a rental unit. Here are a few to consider:

• Dogs that exceed weight limits
• Dogs with a history of biting
• Some exotic pets, such as goats and pigs
• Trained attack dogs
• Unneutered male dogs

How to file a pet liability insurance claim

Immediately record the event details after a pet-related incident, such as a bite. You should also get the victim's contact information and list your pet's previous bite history.

To file a liability claim for a pet-related event, contact American Family in one of the following ways:

• Initiate your claim through the MyAmFam app 
• Log into your AmFam.com account and file a claim
• Contact your local American Family Insurance agent 

Tips to avoid pet damage

If your dog struggles with destructive behaviors, such as barking and chewing, consider the following tips:

• Pet-proof your home. A few updates can help your dog avoid accidents. Common upgrades include childproofing cabinets and trashcans. You can also avoid leaving food on counters.
• Train your dog. Behavioral lessons are a great way to bond with your dog while improving its habits. Additionally, pet stores and local meetups usually offer training options.
• Walk your dog. Some dogs require more exercise than others, but all should be walked regularly. If not, they're apt to go to the bathroom in your home. Plus, unused energy can lead to bad indoor behavior.

Get renters coverage from American Family Insurance

Coming home to a welcoming pet is one of the joys of apartment living, so make sure you and your furry friend are protected. To sign up for a renters insurance policy and get coverage for your pet, start a quote online or contact your local American Family Insurance agent.

This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. You should contact a professional for advice specific to your situation.

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.

*Descriptions provided here offer general information regarding umbrella insurance. The full scope of liability umbrella coverage is subject to the umbrella policy provisions. To qualify for personal liability umbrella insurance, you must meet minimum liability limits for all applicable underlying policies, such as auto, home, renters, boat and recreational vehicle.