Your dog may be your best friend, but he’s not your landlord’s. Just ask the renter whose golden retriever turned on the tub faucet while chasing a toy and flooded three apartments!
Pet damage is a lot more common (and expensive) than many homeowners and renters realize. From scratched-up hardwood floors to waterlogged ceilings, our furry companions can leave more than just paw prints behind. Understanding how (and when) your insurance policy steps in is essential for anyone with a pet at home.
So, does your insurance cover pet damage?
The short answer: it depends.
For Homeowners
Most standard homeowners insurance policies include liability coverage for pet-related incidents involving others. If your dog bites someone or knocks over a neighbor’s expensive electronics, your policy will likely help cover medical bills or property damage. However, if your own dog chews through your drywall or floods your living room, that’s usually considered damage to your own property — and it’s not covered.
In other words, your homeowners policy will help if your pet damages someone else’s property, but not if they destroy your own.
For Renters
Renters insurance also includes liability protection. If your cat knocks over a candle and damages a neighbor’s unit, your policy may kick in. But, like homeowners policies, renters insurance typically doesn’t cover damage to your own belongings caused by your pet. So, if your puppy tears through your new couch, that cost is likely coming out of your pocket.
Many landlords now require renters to carry insurance — and if you have a pet, they may also require a separate pet deposit or even specific pet liability coverage. This varies from lease to lease, so it’s always a good idea to ask and get clear in writing.
What Can Pet Owners Do?
Here’s how to stay ahead of potential pet problems:
- Review your policy. Look specifically at liability coverage and any exclusions related to pets.
- Consider pet liability insurance. Especially if your pet is large, high-energy, or has a track record of chaos.
- Talk to your landlord. Understand what their insurance covers and what they expect you to carry.
- Keep documentation. If you do end up filing a claim, photos of the damage and a clear record of what happened will help speed the process along.
At Avalue, many of us are pet owners ourselves. We know firsthand how much joy pets bring to our lives. But we also know that accidents happen—and when they do, you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re covered.
That’s why we offer comprehensive home insurance solutions. We’ll help you understand what’s covered, what’s not, and how to fill in the gaps so you’re not caught off guard when your four-legged friend gets a little too curious.
Not sure what your current policy includes? Let’s talk. We’re happy to review your coverage with you and help you find a home insurance policy that works best for you and Fido. Give us a call at at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!
