Why Renters Insurance Matters in Fort Lauderdale

If you rent an apartment, townhome, or house in South Florida, your landlord's insurance covers the building, not your belongings. If there's a fire, a burst pipe, a break-in, or a hurricane, your furniture, electronics, clothing, and everything else you own is your financial responsibility. Without renters insurance, replacing everything comes out of your pocket.

Renters insurance (also called an HO-4 policy) is one of the most affordable and underutilized insurance products available. For roughly $15–$25 per month, you get personal property coverage, liability protection, and additional living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable. Many Fort Lauderdale landlords and property management companies now require it as a condition of your lease.

What Renters Insurance Covers

Personal Property

Covers your belongings (furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances) against covered perils like fire, theft, vandalism, and water damage.

Liability Protection

Covers legal expenses if someone is injured in your rental or if you accidentally damage someone else's property. Typically $100K–$300K.

Loss of Use / ALE

Pays for temporary housing if your rental is uninhabitable after a covered loss: hotel stays, meals, and other additional expenses.

Medical Payments

Covers minor medical costs for guests injured in your rental, regardless of fault. Helps prevent larger liability claims.

Bundle Renters + Auto for Extra Savings

Renters who bundle with auto insurance typically see multi-policy discounts on both policies. It's one of the easiest ways to save on your overall insurance costs.

Get a Bundle Quote →

Common Questions About Renters Insurance

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

This is the most important choice in your renters policy. Actual cash value (ACV) pays what your belongings are worth today, after depreciation. That 3-year-old laptop? You'd get a fraction of what you paid. Replacement cost pays what it costs to buy new, equivalent items. We recommend replacement cost coverage for most renters — the premium difference is minimal.

Does Renters Insurance Cover Flooding?

No. Just like homeowners insurance, your renters policy does not cover flood damage. If you live in a ground-floor apartment or an area prone to flooding, you should consider a separate renter's flood policy. Both NFIP and private flood options are available for renters.

Renters Insurance FAQ

How much does renters insurance cost in Fort Lauderdale?
Renters insurance in Fort Lauderdale typically costs $15–$30 per month depending on your coverage amount, deductible, and location. Most renters can get solid coverage for around $15–$20 per month.
Does my landlord's insurance cover my belongings?
No. Your landlord's insurance covers the building structure only. Your personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses are your responsibility. That's exactly what renters insurance covers.
How much personal property coverage do I need?
Do a quick mental inventory. Add up the replacement cost of your furniture, electronics, clothing, kitchen items, and other belongings. Most renters need $20,000–$50,000 in personal property coverage. Underestimating is the most common mistake.
Is renters insurance required in Florida?
Florida law doesn't require renters insurance, but many landlords and property management companies in Fort Lauderdale require it as a condition of your lease. Even if it's not required, it's one of the best values in insurance.