How to compare renters quotes side by side
A five-point checklist for comparing two renters quotes fairly, beyond the monthly price.
Two renters quotes can look a few dollars apart and be very different policies. Line them up on five points before choosing: personal property limit, how belongings are valued, liability limit, deductible, and special limits for valuables.
Valuation is the quiet difference-maker. A quote that pays replacement cost buys you a new television after a fire; one that pays actual cash value pays what a five-year-old television is worth today.
Check what each quote does with add-ons: water and sewer backup, identity restoration, scheduled jewelry, and earthquake where offered. An add-on in one quote and not the other explains much of a price gap.
Finally, compare the payment plan and fees. Paying in full or choosing automatic payments sometimes lowers the total, and a lower monthly figure may hide installment charges.
Coverage lines on a renters quote
| Coverage | What it pays for | Typical choice |
|---|---|---|
| Belongings (personal property) | Your furniture, clothes, electronics, and gear after a covered loss | Match your inventory total; prefer replacement cost |
| Liability | Damages and defense if you injure someone or damage their property | $300,000 is a popular choice |
| Additional living expenses | Hotel, meals, and extra costs while your rental is repaired | Shown as a dollar amount or percentage |
| Guest medical | Small medical bills for visitors, no fault needed | Usually $1,000–$5,000 |
| Optional add-ons | Water/sewer backup, scheduled valuables, identity restoration | Compare across quotes |
Commonly covered causes of loss
- Fire, smoke, and lightning
- Wind and hail
- Theft and burglary
- Vandalism
- Burst or overflowing plumbing and appliances
- Frozen pipes
- Ice, snow, and sleet weight
- Explosion
- Vehicle or aircraft impact
- Falling objects
Commonly not covered
- Flooding
- Earthquakes
- Pest infestations
- Mold from long-term leaks
- Damage your pet does to the rental
- The building structure
More guides
- Replacement cost vs. actual cash value
- Renters home inventory checklist
- Renters insurance for students
- Pets and renters liability
- Moving with renters insurance
- Water damage and sewer backup for renters
- Bundling renters with auto
- Renters insurance discounts to ask about
- First apartment insurance checklist