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Renters Insurance FAQs

Find easy explanations to some common renters insurance questions.

Already have a policy? Call 800-640-2920 so we can help you.

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Renters Insurance Frequently Asked Questions

Renters Insurance Payments

How can I make a payment?

You can pay your renters insurance premium easily by logging into or setting up your online account, which allows you to make a payment anytime. You can also call us to make a payment at 800-640-2920. Our helpful agents are available Monday to Friday 7:30 am – 7:30 pm PT and Saturday 8:00 am – 4:30 pm PT.

Or you can mail a check, payable to:

Wawanesa General Insurance Company
P.O. Box 85048
San Diego, CA 92186-5048
What happens if my renters insurance payment is late?
Paying your renters insurance on time is important. If you need to pay a few days late or ask about a payment accommodation, please contact us at 800-640-2920. Our helpful agents will be able to review your options and ensure your renters insurance coverage does not lapse.
Is there a fee to cancel my renters insurance policy?

Cancellation fees vary by state.

In California, there are no cancellation fees for canceling a California renters insurance policy.

For Oregon policies, there is a $50 cancellation fee, if you cancel within 60 days of your renters insurance policy’s start date. If you cancel after that time, there is no fee.

How much does renters insurance cost?
Renters insurance costs around $12 per month[1] for a basic coverage of $15,000 personal property liability limit. It is one of the most affordable types of insurance coverage, considering the amount of protection it gives tenants.

Renters Insurance Discounts

What renters insurance discounts does Wawanesa offer?

You can earn discounts if your home is equipped with certain safety and security features. To find out more about how you can save, check out our renters insurance discounts.

Renters Insurance Coverage

Why do I need renters insurance?
Renters insurance isn’t mandatory. However, we strongly recommend that tenants get the protection it gives. For a (very) affordable premium, renters insurance covers personal possessions at home and away, temporary living expenses after a covered incident, and provides liability protection in the event of a lawsuit.
Can my landlord require renters insurance?
Yes, your landlord can require you to carry renters insurance. However, even if your landlord doesn’t require it, it’s a good idea to have renters insurance to protect you and your belongings. The landlord’s insurance only covers the building structure. For example, if your furniture or electronics were damaged or destroyed by a fire, without renters insurance, you’d be on the hook financially to replace all your stuff.
What events does renters insurance cover?

Renters insurance covers several things that could damage your personal belongings. Below is a list of situations and damage that renters insurance could cover:

  • Fire or lightning
  • Windstorm or hail
  • Explosion
  • Riot or civil commotion
  • Aircraft
  • Vehicles
  • Smoke
  • Vandalism
  • Theft
  • Falling objects
  • Weight of ice, snow, or sleet
  • Accidental discharge or overflow of water
  • Sudden and accidental tearing, cracking, or bulging
  • Freezing
  • Sudden and accidental damage from artificially generated electrical current
  • Volcanic eruption
  • Lawsuits for injuries sustained by guests on premises

In addition to a basic renters policy, you also have the option to buy extra coverage. Learn more about renters insurance coverage.

What and who is covered with my renters insurance?
Personal property belonging to you, your spouse, family members living with you, and pets will be covered by your renters insurance. Covered items may include furniture, books, appliances, clothing, and electronics. Your liability will also be limited in the event that a visitor to your home is accidently injured. If you share your place with roommates, they need to purchase their own renters insurance policies, as they won’t be covered under yours.
Does my renters insurance cover me, if my dog bites a visitor?
Yes, your renters insurance can cover damages caused, if your dog accidently bites a visitor— as long as your pet is listed on your policy and not on the list of breeds considered dangerous. Always refer to your renters insurance policy for specific details on coverage.
What does personal liability mean on my renters insurance policy?
Personal liability refers to your financial liability if a guest to your home was injured and decided to sue you for medical expenses. A renters insurance policy limits your personal liability, so your assets can’t be taken in the event of a lawsuit against you.
What types of personal property are covered with my renters insurance?
The personal property coverage included in your renters insurance policy will pay to replace basic belongings like clothing and furniture and more expensive items like electronics and computers, to name just a few. For a list of items covered by your renters insurance policy refer to your declaration page or, call one of our helpful agents at 800-640-2920.
Is there a maximum or minimum coverage on my renters insurance policy?
The declarations page of your renters insurance policy will show you the details of your coverages. The declarations page will outline what your maximum amount for personal property coverage and the maximum amount of extra coverage if it was purchased for specific personal belongings.
Can I increase coverage for some of my personal belongings?
Yes, you can increase coverage on certain personal belongings. To get the best renters insurance protection possible for your valuables, call one of our helpful agents at 800-640-2920.
Are my personal belongings covered when I’m traveling?
Yes, eligible personal belongings are covered under your rental insurance policy when you’re traveling anywhere in the world.
How long does it take to get renters insurance coverage?

The fastest way to start your renters insurance policy is to get a quote online call us at 800-640-2920.

Get a Renters Quote Today

Once you have your quote, and coverage has been approved, you can make your premium down payment with a debit card, credit card, or through your checking account.

Renters Insurance Claims

How do I report a renters insurance claim?

You can file a claim any time that’s convenient for you. Simply complete the online form or give us a call at 888-WAWA-CLAIM (929-2252) — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Submit a Property Claim

Do I need documentation of my personal belongings when I report a claim?
Yes, documentation will help the claim process and settlement go much faster. That’s why it’s always a good idea to do an inventory of all your belongings beforehand, so you don’t forget to list certain items in your claim. Keep all your receipts — especially from big ticket items and take photos of your belongings.
What is a deductible on my renters insurance policy?
A deductible is the amount you’ll pay out of your own pocket before your insurance kicks in to cover the rest. For example, if your renters insurance deductible is $500, and you file a claim for $1,500, you would pay $500 and your insurance would reimburse you $1,000.

Making Changes to Your Renters Insurance Policy

How can I change or edit my renters insurance?

The best way to request any changes to your renters insurance policy is to give us a call at 800-640-2920. One of our helpful agents can help you:

  • Add people to your policy
  • Change coverages and dates
  • Change your address if you move
How can I cancel my renters insurance?
We hate to lose you, but if you need to cancel your policy, give us a call at 800-640-2920 and one of our helpful agents will be happy to help you.

Disclaimers

  1. Average premium cost of $12 per month for the states of California and Oregon, for a Wawanesa 12-month renters insurance policy for personal property liability limit of $15,000.

Please note that this website provides only a summary of renters insurance to generally illustrate how renters insurance works. Your insurance policy is the legal contract containing the terms and limitations of your coverage. Any coverage provided by a Wawanesa General Insurance Company policy is subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, and endorsements of your insurance policy.

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