Does Renters Insurance Cover Power Outages? (2024)

Power outages are often covered by standard renters personal property insurance coverage. Personal property coverage protects your personal belongings from damage caused by power outages.

For example, if a lightning storm strikes your home, causing a power outage and physical damage to the building, making your home unlivable, your renters insurance may pay for alternative housing. Or, if a power outage ruins food in the refrigerator because electricity is out for a period of time, renters insurance may help you recoup the loss, and since a power outage may prevent you from cooking, insurance may cover the expense of dining out.

MoneyGeek's renters insurance and personal property coverage guides can help you understand what they do and do not cover because of a power outage.

When Does Renters Insurance Cover Power Outages?

Renters insurance covers damage from a power outage to your personal belongings. But, if you cause the power outage, compensation for your losses is unlikely. Outages caused by disasters named in the policy, on the other hand, are covered.

For example, if lightning strikes and the power goes out, you should unplug/remove electrical equipment since electricity might be restored with a quick surge that damages your electronics. If your insurer discovers that the damage was avoidable, the policy may not pay the loss.

When Doesn’t Renters Insurance Cover Power Outages?

How to Protect Yourself From Power Outages

Prevention is better than filing a claim, and it is also less expensive as renters insurance rates could go up after making a claim. Being proactive to avoid power outages in your apartment is preferable but not always possible. You can protect yourself against damage to electronics in a power outage by installing a surge protector and unplugging appliances when the power goes out.

Also, pay attention to news reports to know whether a weather event is coming that may cause a power outage and protect your belongings as best possible.

Unplug Appliances

When the power goes out, it is important to disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges during power restoration.

Stay Connected and Alert

Use an alert system that notifies you of power outages by text and email so you may be aware in real-time.

Install Surge Protectors

Install surge protectors for your household electronics.

Disaster Kit

Create a kit with essential items for each member of your home. First-aid supplies, nonperishable food, bottled water and a flashlight should all be in your kits.



Keep Freezer Closed

Most refrigerators can store frozen food for one to three days. Keeping your freezer closed can stop your frozen food from spoiling.

Where to Buy Renters Insurance

You can get renters insurance from major insurance companies, such as Farmers and Travelers, or smaller companies, like Lemonade and Toggle. If you're not sure which is best for you, MoneyGeek has a guide on comparing renters insurance quotes.

Renters insurance costs an average of $13 a month; however, premiums vary depending on your location and the value of your personal possessions. If you need help determining how much coverage to purchase, use MoneyGeek's personal property calculator below.