Does Renters Insurance Cover Pet Damage?

If you rent a home or apartment in Houston, TX, you may already know that renters insurance can protect your belongings from theft, fire and certain types of water damage. But what about when your pet is the cause of the damage? The answer depends on the situation, and understanding the details could help you avoid costly surprises.

Damage to Your Own Property

In most cases, renters insurance does not cover damage your pet causes to your own belongings. If a dog chews through your couch or a cat scratches your dining room chairs, you’ll likely be responsible for the repair or replacement costs. These types of incidents are considered preventable and fall outside the scope of typical renters policies.

Damage to the Rental Unit

Pet-related damage to the property you’re renting, such as scratched floors, chewed baseboards, or stained carpet, is generally not covered by renters insurance. Landlords often address these risks by charging a pet deposit or monthly pet fee. You could still be liable for repair costs if your pet causes significant damage to the unit.

Damage or Injury to Others

One area where renters insurance may help is liability coverage. If your pet injures someone or damages their property, your policy’s liability protection might cover medical expenses, repair costs or legal fees, up to your policy limits. However, some insurers have breed or species restrictions, so reviewing your policy for exclusions is important.

Take the following steps to protect yourself:

• Read your policy carefully. Make sure you understand what pet-related incidents are and are not covered.
• Ask about endorsements. Some insurers offer optional coverage for specific types of pet damage.
• Consider liability limits. You might want higher liability coverage if your pet is large or high-energy.
• Practice prevention. Training, supervision and pet-proofing your home can reduce risks.

While renters insurance is an important safeguard, it’s not a catch-all for pet damage. Amco Auto Insurance can help you review your coverage, explain any exclusions and suggest options that fit both your budget and your pet-friendly lifestyle. Contact us today to learn more about protecting your home, your belongings and your four-legged family members.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.