Property owners
Homeowners vs. landlord insurance
Homeowners insurance is designed for a home you live in; landlord insurance is designed for a home tenants live in. When you move out and rent the house, the policy should change before the tenant moves in.
Key differences
Short answer: Who lives there, what's covered for belongings, lost-rent coverage, and the type of liability.
| Homeowners | Landlord | |
|---|---|---|
| Occupant | You | Tenants |
| Your belongings | Covered | Only furnishings you provide |
| Lost rent | No | Fair rental value |
| Liability | Personal | Premises liability as owner |
Steps when you start renting
Short answer: Call before the move-out date, convert the policy, require renters insurance, and add the rental to your umbrella.
Keep exploring
- Landlord insuranceLandlord insurance for Washington rental owners: the building, lost rent, and liability — and why a homeowners policy stops covering a home once you rent it out.
- Rental property situationsInsurance for the in-between situations: renting out your old house, an ADU or basement unit, a second home, a vacant property, or a short-term rental in Washington.
- Umbrella insuranceUmbrella insurance adds $1 million or more of liability protection above your home and auto policies. What a personal umbrella policy covers, who needs one, and how much to buy.
Already insured?
Have Chett’s team review your current policy.
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