If you’re getting ready to move out of your apartment, you probably have a long to-do list: pack up your items, schedule movers, clean the place, update your utility contracts, and more. But here’s one more thing you should consider: Does renters insurance cover moving? And if it does, how much can you count on it to protect your belongings during a move?
Renters insurance is a smart investment while you’re living in an apartment. It helps cover your belongings from fire damage, theft, certain types of water damage, or various accidents. But what happens when you’re in transition, moving from one place to another? We’ll cover everything you need to know about renters insurance and moving so you’re not left guessing.
Does renters insurance cover moving?
The short answer? It can, but not always in the way you’d expect.
Many standard renters insurance policies offer some protection for your personal belongings during a move, but there are limits and exceptions. For example, you may be covered if your items get stolen from your car at any stage during the moving process. If something gets damaged in a fire or vandalized while you’re in the moving process, you also may be protected. But if your couch gets dropped down the stairs or your TV cracks while being loaded into a moving truck, that’s usually not covered.
Some policies may only be good for the current address on record; however, others (like ResidentShield H04 policies) cover the premises being moved into for 30 days from the beginning date of the move.
If you only have liability coverage, even if it satisfies your landlord’s requirements, any damage to your belongings during the move won’t be covered. That’s why it’s important to know the details of your insurance policy before moving day.
What renters insurance may cover during moving
Let’s dive deeper into some common situations in which your renters insurance may kick in and cover you while moving:
– Theft: If someone breaks into your car while parked at your old or new apartment, or while in transit during the move, and steals your belongings, your renters insurance may help replace the stolen items. Just make sure you file a police report and provide the necessary documentation.
– Fire or weather-related damage: If your belongings are damaged by a named peril (like fire, lightning, or wind) while moving, your renters insurance can often cover damages up to your policy limits. Depending on your policy details, this coverage may apply whether your items are in your old apartment or your new place.
– Temporary storage: Your renters insurance might extend coverage if you’re storing items temporarily during the move (for example, in a storage unit). However, this will last a limited time, usually up to 30 days. This also only applies if the damage is caused by something your policy specifically covers.
When renters insurance doesn’t cover moving
Here are some of the most common situations where renters insurance probably won’t cover every type of damage during moving:
– Accidental damage: If you accidentally drop a box of dishes or crack your mirror while carrying it to your car or moving truck, renters insurance won’t cover the damage. Likewise, if your belongings get damaged because you didn’t pack them properly — for example, you tossed your electronics into a box without padding — your policy likely won’t help.
– Movers’ mistakes: Renters insurance typically doesn’t cover your professional movers breaking something. Instead, you’d have to file a claim with the moving company. Most movers are required to carry their own liability coverage, so ask about that upfront.
Tips for protecting your belongings during a move
Even though renters insurance may cover certain types of damage during a move, it’s smart to take extra steps to protect your belongings:
Read your policy carefully
Every renters insurance policy is different. Some may offer more robust protection during moves than others. Make sure you understand what your policy includes and what it doesn’t.
Keep a home inventory
Before you move, make a list of your major belongings. Take photos and write down any relevant details about each item. If something is lost or damaged, this documentation can support your insurance claim.
Pack smart
Good packing can prevent a lot of damage. Use sturdy boxes and plenty of packing material. Label your boxes clearly and keep fragile items separate.
Ask about storage coverage
If your stuff is in storage for part of your move, check how long your renters insurance will cover it and what types of damage are included.
Consider moving insurance
If you’re using professional movers or transporting valuable items, you may want to get separate moving insurance. It’s an added cost, but it can help fill in the gaps that renters insurance doesn’t cover.
Don’t cancel too early
One last tip: don’t cancel your renters insurance the moment you leave your apartment. It’s important to stay covered from the start of your move until you’re fully settled into your new place in case anything happens in between. Before move-in day, make sure you’ve secured a policy for your new home. You might be able to transfer your current policy, but if you’re moving out of state, you may need a new one altogether. Many landlords require proof of coverage before handing over the keys.
So, does renters insurance cover moving? Yes, but only to a point. It can help cover damage from certain unexpected events but won’t protect against accidents, poor packing, or damage caused by movers. Knowing what your policy includes can save you a lot of stress (and money) when you’re on the move.
So, before you pack your first box, take a minute to review your renters insurance. Moving can be unpredictable, but knowing your coverage details can help you protect your personal belongings when it matters most.
