Is There Month-to-Month Renters Insurance?

Month-to-month renters insurance is not standard, but you can buy a 12-month policy and cancel or transfer it early if you need short-term coverage.

Find out if you're overpaying for renters insurance below.

Written by Mark Fitzpatrick

Updated: October 27, 2025

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Key Takeaways

No insurance company offers true month-to-month renters insurance policies, but you can purchase a standard 12-month policy and cancel it early with a prorated refund.

Some insurers offer six-month terms, which work well if you need coverage for half a year without the hassle of early cancellation. You can also transfer your policy when you move.

If you're looking for short-term renters insurance during your vacation, your existing policy will still cover your belongings and liability. You can add travel insurance for an extra layer of safety.

Can You Get Month-to-Month Insurance for Renters?

Month-to-month renters insurance policies don't exist. Insurance companies don't offer true monthly coverage because annual premiums are already affordable, making short-term policies unprofitable.

If you need coverage for less than a year, buy a standard annual policy and cancel it when you no longer need it or transfer it to your new address. Most insurers refund unused premiums when you cancel early, though cancellation fees may apply depending on your provider.

You can cancel online or by contacting your insurer directly. If you paid your premium up front, ask about refunding the unused portion. Each insurer handles cancellations differently, so check your policy terms before signing up.

Short-Term Renters Insurance Options: Alternatives to Month-to-Month Policies

If you only need renters insurance for a short period, you have a few alternatives, such as getting a six-month policy, transferring it to a new address or simply canceling it. Your best option depends on your needs and future plans. Here are your options:

Cancel Your Policy

While renters insurance policies are typically designed for one-year terms, they are often paid monthly. This means that if you only require coverage for two months, you can apply for a standard policy and cancel it after your two-month need has been met. Whether you're jetting off on a month-long vacation or staying in a short-term rental for work, this approach can offer the flexibility you need.

Depending on your insurance provider, this method may require you to pay a cancellation fee, which ranges from $25 to $75 on average. Some insurers, such as Lemonade, don't require you to pay any cancellation fee.

Find a Six-Month Policy

Although less common than one-year policies, some insurance providers may offer shorter-term options, such as six-month renters insurance policies. If you anticipate needing coverage for a specific half-year period, this could be a more convenient solution than purchasing a standard policy and canceling it.

Nationwide, Farmers and American Family offer six-month renters insurance policies in most states. These policies cost 10% to 15% more per month on average than 12-month policies but eliminate cancellation fees if six-month coverage fits your needs.

Transfer Your Policy

You can transfer your policy to your new address if you have signed a short lease of six months or less than one year but intend to move to another apartment afterward. All you need to do is inform your provider of your new address by calling their customer service line or updating your address online. Most companies process transfers within 24 to 48 hours.

Your renters insurance premium may change based on your new location's risk factors. Moving to an area with higher crime rates or natural disaster risk increases your rate. Moving to a safer area may lower your premium.

Exploring these options allows you to tailor your renters insurance to your specific short-term needs without committing to a lengthy contract. This flexibility ensures that you're adequately protected throughout your stay.

Is There Month-to-Month Renters Insurance for Property Owners With Rentals?

Although property ownership with rental units differs significantly from being a tenant, there are also no month-to-month insurance policies for property owners. If you're leasing your property, the type of insurance you require depends on the nature of your rental arrangement.

Landlord Insurance

Landlord insurance is tailored for property owners who rent their homes or apartments long-term. It typically covers property damage, liability claims and loss of rental income. This type of coverage ensures you're protected during extended lease agreements. While landlord insurance and home insurance are similar, you do not need homeowners insurance if you lease out your property.

Short-Term Rentals

If you're leasing your property on a short-term basis, you may require short-term rental insurance, otherwise known as home-sharing insurance. This type of coverage protects you from the risks associated with frequent turnover and transient guests. It often includes coverage for property damage, liability and loss of rental income due to unexpected events.

Is There Month-to-Month Renters Insurance for Vacationers?

There are no month-to-month renters insurance policies to insure yourself while staying in an Airbnb for a month or longer, but if you have existing renters or homeowners insurance, the coverage from your policy will follow you. To get more protection, you can also add travel insurance. Here are your options:

Existing Renters or Homeowners Insurance

Your existing renters or home insurance policy for your primary residence typically extends its coverage to vacations. This means that your belongings and personal liability are still protected while you're away. Review your policy's terms and limits to ensure you have adequate coverage during your absence.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance covers unexpected events that can disrupt your trip. Policies typically include trip cancellation or interruption, emergency medical coverage for accidents, lost or delayed baggage, and travel assistance.

While travel insurance primarily focuses on the travel aspect of your vacation, it can also provide valuable protection for your belongings and medical emergencies during your month-long getaway. Review policy details and choose one that aligns with your specific needs and destination.

While there is no dedicated month-to-month renters insurance for vacationers, existing insurance policies and travel insurance options can help you secure comprehensive coverage during your long holiday, allowing you to relax and remain worry-free.

Month-to-Month Short Term Renters Insurance: Bottom Line

Most insurance companies don’t offer true month-to-month renters insurance. Policies usually last a year, though some may offer six-month terms. If you only need short-term coverage, you can cancel a standard policy early or transfer it to a new address. Renters, property owners and even vacationers can use existing coverage or flexible options to meet short-term insurance needs.

Understanding Month-to-Month Renters Insurance: FAQ

While there are no month-to-month renters insurance policies, there are options depending on your needs. Whether you’re a tenant, a property owner or a vacationer looking for short-term insurance, understanding your alternatives is essential to make sure you're protected.

Can renters insurance be paid monthly?

Renters insurance policies generally last a year and can be paid monthly, quarterly or annually. Paying monthly offers greater flexibility for those who prefer to budget on a monthly basis. Check with your insurance provider to confirm available payment options and any associated fees or discounts for different payment frequencies.

Which insurance company offers month-to-month renters insurance?

Month-to-month renters insurance doesn't exist in the insurance market. While most renters insurance policies are designed to cover an entire year, you have options if you need short-term coverage. You can purchase a 12-month policy and cancel it whenever you no longer need coverage. You'll receive a prorated refund but may be subject to cancellation fees, depending on your insurer. You can also purchase a six-month policy through some insurers or transfer your existing coverage to a new address.

Are there six-month renters insurance policies?

It’s possible to get six-month renters insurance, but availability varies by provider. Some insurers may be flexible, while others may require you to purchase a one-year policy and cancel at the sixth month.

Short-Term Insurance Policy for Renters: Related Articles

About Mark Fitzpatrick

Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.

Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!

He writes about economics and insurance, breaking down complex topics so people know what they're buying.

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