How Long Does It Take to Get Renters Insurance?

Getting the best renters insurance can be done as fast as minutes or in a day or two. The most important step to getting a policy fast it determining how much coverage you want.

We researched each renters insurance company to see how quickly we could get though the quote and application process.  

Fastest Options

• Lemonade (90 seconds): AI chatbot requires only your address to start
• State Farm (Under 10 minutes):  Fastest traditional insurer with online purchase
• Jetty (2 minutes):  Integrated with property managers, proof sent to landlords

Standard Options

• Allstate (15-20 minutes):  Guarantees same-day coverage
• USAA (15-30 minutes):  Military only, instant approval available
• Progressive (15-30 minutes): Broker model, timeline varies by partner

Slower Options

• GEICO. Broker with multiple partners, processing time varies
• Travelers: Requires agent, online quotes only
• Nationwide: Agent consultation required, no full online purchase

Need insurance today? Your policy starts on the effective date. Here's which companies can activate your policy immediately:

Guaranteed Same-Day Coverage

• Allstate: Select your start date during application
• USAA: Coverage at 12:01 a.m. next day for military members

Next-Day Coverage (12:01am)

• Lemonade: Despite 90-second application, coverage starts the next day
• Liberty Mutual: Same-day activation for early submissions
• Farmers: Instant online approval with same-day effective dates

Varied Timelines

• State Farm: Can specify dates but processing time varies
• Progressive: Same-day possible with instant digital ID cards
• Root: Same-day activation available

Pro tips: Apply before 2 p.m. in your time zone to maximize your chances of same-day coverage with traditional insurers.  Also, each company will allow you to choose a custom start date if you don't need coverage immediately.

Most applications require minimal information upfront. Here's what to gather before you start:

Required Information

• Personal details: Full name, date of birth, contact information
• Rental address: Complete property address and dwelling type
• Coverage preferences: Desired coverage limits and deductible amount
• Safety features: Smoke detectors, security systems, fire department distance

Optional Information

• Social Security Number (required for some insurers)
• Prior insurance history (past five years)
• Bank account information for automatic payments

Not Typically Required

• Income verification (unless seeking high coverage limits)
• Extensive documentation
• Proof of residency (beyond address confirmation)

Keep in mind that while these are the typical requirements, the specifics may vary depending on your insurance provider and your unique circumstances. It's a good idea to have this information handy when you start the application process, as it will speed up the process and help you get the coverage you need.

You need to know the value of your belongings before applying to get the right coverage amount. Underestimating your belongings leaves you underinsured; overestimating wastes money on premiums you don't need.

Fast Estimates by Home Size

• Studio/1-bedroom: $15,000 to $30,000
• 2-bedroom: $25,000 to $40,000
• 3+ bedrooms: $35,000 to $60,000

Policies limit coverage for valuable items:

• Jewelry and watches: $1,500 per item
• Electronics: $2,500 total
• Art and collectibles: $2,500 total
• Cash: $200 total

If you own items worth more than these limits, you'll need additional coverage, which may add time to your application.

Pro tip: Take 10 minutes to walk through your home and mentally add up major items (furniture, clothes, electronics, appliances) before starting your application.  We recommend you take video footage of your belongings.

See our guide for more details on [determining your renters insurance coverage need](Knowing your coverage amount before you apply speeds up the process and prevents delays. Here's how to calculate what you need:).

Standard renters insurance doesn't cover certain perils (specific risks or causes of damage like fire, theft, or storms). Adding protection for these excluded risks extends your application time but may be necessary depending on your location and belongings.

Timeline impact and recommendation: Basic coverage approves in minutes, but these endorsements can add 24 to 48 hours for underwriting review. Apply for basic coverage first to get immediate protection, then add endorsements later to avoid delays.

The fastest way to get renters insurance is to do it online. It’s a very straightforward process; you just need to provide the correct information. Whether you're in a rush or want to streamline the process, here's a step-by-step guide to help you get renters insurance efficiently:

Remember that the process and requirements for getting renters insurance may vary from provider to provider. While some may offer a swift online application process, others may require more documentation or have different criteria. Being prepared and doing your research can help you navigate this process efficiently, ensuring you get the protection you need in no time.