Why Should Roommates Get Their Own Renters Insurance Policy?

When a new roommate moves in, they may want to get added to your renters insurance policy. While this can save money in the short term, it can be a hassle for the policyholder. There are a few reasons why you should insist that your new roommate get their own policy. 

Monthly Premium Increases

Filing a claim under your policy can increase your monthly premium, even if you’re not the one who filed it. That means if your roommate files one, you can wind up with higher monthly premiums that will continue after they move out because the policy is in your name. Your roommate may not want to pay the higher monthly amount, either. 

Claims Against Your Roommate

You may be able to file a claim for damage caused by your roommate. However, things can get complicated if your roommate is listed on your policy. Some companies have specific exclusions so you can’t file a claim if someone on the policy causes damage. It’s best to speak with an agent at Jim Boyce Insurance about this situation before adding someone to your policy. 

Coverage Limits

Policies in Matthews, NC typically provide coverage up to a certain dollar amount. This means that you may not have the coverage you need if both your belongings and your roommates are destroyed in a covered incident, such as a fire. Instead, you’ll have to split the payout and do the best you can with it. 

Adding a roommate to a renters insurance policy can also mean that you have to cancel the policy and start a new one if they move out, leading to coverage gaps. Instead, your roommate can work with an agent at Jim Boyce Insurance to establish their own policy. Contact us today. We’re currently serving the Matthews, NC area.