Renters Insurance 101: What Every First-Time Tenant Should Know
Renting your first apartment or home in Pennsylvania is exciting, but it also comes with new responsibilities—including protecting your space and your stuff.
Many first-time tenants assume that their landlord’s insurance policy will cover everything if something goes wrong. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. If a fire, theft, or accident happens, you’re responsible for your personal property, not the landlord.
This guide breaks down the essentials of renters insurance for first-time tenants in Pennsylvania so you can feel confident, covered, and ready to move in.
What Is Renters Insurance and Why Does It Matter?
Landlords Aren’t Responsible for Your Stuff
Your landlord’s insurance only covers the structure of the building—not what’s inside your unit. That means if a pipe bursts or a fire damages your furniture and electronics, the loss is on you.
Who Needs Renters Insurance?
If you:
Live in an apartment or rental home
Own furniture, electronics, or clothes
Want protection from lawsuits or liability
…then renters insurance is worth considering. Even if you're just starting out, the cost of replacing your things adds up quickly.
What Renters Insurance Typically Covers
A standard renters insurance policy in Pennsylvania usually includes:
Personal Belongings
Covers your possessions if they’re damaged or stolen due to:
Fire
Smoke
Theft
Vandalism
Water damage (from burst pipes)
This includes furniture, electronics, clothing, kitchenware, and more.
Liability Protection
Pays legal and medical expenses if:
Someone is injured in your apartment
You accidentally damage someone else's property
For example, if your dog bites a guest or you accidentally start a kitchen fire that spreads, liability coverage steps in.
Loss of Use Coverage
Also known as additional living expenses, this covers hotel stays or temporary housing if your apartment becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss.
What Renters Insurance Doesn’t Cover
Knowing what’s excluded is just as important as knowing what’s included.
Flood Damage and Sewer Backup
Standard renters insurance does not cover flood-related damage. If you're in a flood-prone area, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy.
Roommate Belongings
Unless they’re listed on your policy, your roommate’s items won’t be covered. Each tenant should have their own policy.
Damage from Neglect
Issues caused by poor maintenance, mold, or pest infestations may not be covered—especially if you failed to report them.
How Much Does Renters Insurance Cost in Pennsylvania?
The good news? Renters insurance is very affordable. In most areas of Cambria County, you can expect to pay:
Around $10 to $20 per month
With coverage limits ranging from $15,000 to $50,000+
The actual cost depends on your coverage level, deductible, and whether you bundle with an auto policy.
Do You Really Need Renters Insurance?
If you’re renting your first place, the answer is likely yes.
Renters insurance gives you:
Financial protection against unexpected events
Peace of mind knowing you’re covered
Support during a claim, especially when working with a local agent
Even if it’s not required by your landlord, it’s one of the most affordable and important ways to protect your lifestyle and budget.
Get Covered Before You Move In
At Ebensburg Insurance, we help first-time tenants across Cambria County understand exactly what renters insurance covers—and how to tailor it to your needs.
Whether you're moving into your first apartment in Ebensburg or renting a home in Bellwood, we make it easy to protect your space from day one.
Locally trusted. Community focused. Serving Cambria County and beyond.
Request a free quote today or ask our team about bundling your renters and auto coverage for even more savings.
Serving Ebensburg, Northern Cambria, Carrolltown, and surrounding areas.
