Surprising things that renters insurance covers — and those left out

Insurance is designed to offer peace of mind, but there’s a reason your policy has all that fi ne print: You might not have the coverage you expect. Like any other insurance policy, renters insurance has exclusions, and knowing about them ahead of time can help you avoid unexpected bills in a disaster.

Just as important, though, is knowing what IS covered. All that fi ne print in your policy likely includes coverage you might not expect, which could save you money down the line.

Covered: belongings outside your home

Most renters know insurance covers personal belongings within their home but may not realize their things are probably covered off - premises too, including when traveling. Barbara Madvin, an insurance agent at Gaspar Insurance Services, says vehicle break- ins are some of the most common insurance claims she sees for renters. While damage to the car itself is generally covered by your auto policy, your renters insurance pays for items stolen from the vehicle, as long as their value exceeds your deductible.

Your renters policy will also cover your belongings if you move them from your home to a storage unit, a friend’s house or anywhere else to protect them from a covered disaster. In the event of a wildfi re or hurricane evacuation, this can be particularly valuable, according to Christine G. Barlow, a chartered property casualty underwriter. This coverage typically lasts 30 days.

Covered: living expenses if your rental is uninhabitable

While your home is undergoing repairs due to a fi re or other covered disaster, your insurance company will usually pay for you to maintain your normal standard of living somewhere else.