Is it legal for a landlord to require a tenant to get renter’s insurance? I live in Boston and am looking into renting either a small house or possibly an apartment unit – but I’d like to know if renter’s insurance is a requirement.
Can A Landlord In Boston Require Renters Insurance?
21750 POINTSview profileJim WinklerCEO/Owner, Winkler Financial Group, Houston, TexasThat is a great question! A landlord can make it a requirement for the tenants to have renters insurance before allowing them to sign the lease. I have to tell you that they are doing you a favor by requiring it. The complexes insurance will not cover your belongings should there be damage or theft in your apartment, the financial responsibility to replace or repair is all yours. Their insurance will only cover the damage to the building itself. If you were to have a guest become injured while visiting in your apartment, it is your responsibility, not the landlords. By making it a requirement, the landlord is actually getting you to financially protect yourself. Nice landlord! Find a local agent, and buy a policy, they are inexpensive, and well worth it. Thanks for asking!Answered on May 14, 2014flag this answer
14231 POINTSview profileTom SheehanAgency Owner, The Thomas G Sheehan Agency, 27 Glen Road Sandy Hook, CT 06482So long as the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or the City Ordinances of Boston do not prohibit a landlord from requiring proof of renters insurance from their tenants, then the landlord is free to include such proof as a condition of the lease. I'd check with a local attorney or consult an official in the City Building Office to see if any such laws or ordinances apply. Regardless of they require it or not, it is always in your best interest to talk to an Insurance Professional and secure that coverage for yourself.Answered on May 14, 2014flag this answer
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