Starting renter’s insurance through Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc., serving Nashville, NC, might be a landlord’s requirement or your latest brilliant idea. Either way, it’s a smart move. But don’t just pay the bill and forget about it—take steps to ensure your coverage works for you. Here are some tips to secure it.
Document What You Own
Creating an inventory of your belongings is simple—grab your phone and take pictures of everything. Open closets, peek inside drawers, and snap shots of your TV, laptop, and even that fancy blender you thought you’d use every day. Having a visual record of your possessions can make filing a claim much easier.
Understand Your Coverage
Don’t assume your policy covers everything. Some policies pay for brand-new replacements, while others only reimburse the current value of your items (spoiler: your old couch probably isn’t worth much). Check if your policy includes coverage for temporary housing, like a hotel, if your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a fire or plumbing disaster. A quick review now can save you from regret later.
Don’t Overlook Liability Coverage
Liability coverage is often underestimated but incredibly important. If a friend trips over your rug and breaks their ankle or you accidentally flood your downstairs neighbor’s ceiling, liability coverage can help cover medical bills or repair costs. These situations might seem unlikely, but they happen more often than you’d think.
Store Your Records Safely
Once your policy is in place, store your information in a safe and accessible location. Email it to yourself, save it in a cloud folder, or keep it in a spot you’ll remember. The last thing you want is to be digging through junk drawers for your inventory list when you need it most.
A little effort now can save you from major headaches later. Isn’t that the whole point? Want more tips about renters’ insurance? Contact Hedgepeth-Hutson Insurance Services Inc., serving Nashville, NC, today!
