Does Renters Insurance Cover Broken Windows?

There are two main ways that broken windows are covered, either by standard renters insurance or by a landlord’s insurance.

Broken windows are covered by standard insurance policies under personal liability. If you’re found liable for damage done to your neighbor’s window or bodily injury, personal liability covers you for legal costs.

Landlord insurance is another way to protect against paying for repairs or the replacement of broken windows. If windows in your unit are broken due to covered damage, your landlord’s insurance policy usually covers it.

MoneyGeek created a guide about personal liability insurance to help you understand if you’re covered or not.

There are several conditions to determine whether your renters insurance covers you for broken windows. Standard renters insurance policies will cover you if you or a family member breaks a neighbor’s window. However, it’s your landlord’s responsibility to file a claim if your window is broken due to a covered event.

Coverage for broken windows depends on whose windows were damaged. Renters insurance covers you if you break someone else’s window. Meanwhile, if your window is broken, your landlord’s insurance should cover it.

Renters insurance doesn’t protect against expenses if you or a family member damages your unit’s window. In some cases, that will be your landlord’s responsibility. Instead, your renters insurance only covers you under personal liability if you or a loved one break a third-party’s window.

To avoid confusion, it’s best to read the fine print of your policy or contact your insurance provider.

It’s not advisable to rely solely on your insurance in case you break someone else’s windows or if your unit’s windows are damaged. There are several steps you can take to prevent damage to both your and your neighbor’s windows.

Finding large and small insurers that offer renters insurance is fairly easy. MoneyGeek found that the average cost of renters insurance is roughly $13 per month. Keep in mind that personal factors can affect your rates.

Depending on the insurance provider, your premiums can vary. MoneyGeek provides a personal property calculator below so that you figure out your potential costs based on your needs. It’s also advisable to compare renters insurance rates to find the best option for you.