{"id":185443,"date":"2025-10-31T10:40:23","date_gmt":"2025-10-31T16:40:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/?p=185443"},"modified":"2025-10-31T10:42:18","modified_gmt":"2025-10-31T16:42:18","slug":"most-common-landlord-insurance-claims-and-how-to-prevent-them","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/most-common-landlord-insurance-claims-and-how-to-prevent-them","title":{"rendered":"The 3 Most Common Landlord Insurance Claims and How to Prevent Them"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">This article is presented by <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Steadily<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">It\u2019s 11 p.m. when your tenant texts: Water is pouring through the ceiling, and it\u2019s not stopping. Or maybe it\u2019s Saturday morning, and you\u2019re staring at photos of shattered windows and graffiti covering your vacant rental.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Insurance claims don\u2019t just happen to careless landlords. They happen to be diligent, experienced property owners who thought they had everything covered. The difference between a minor inconvenience and a financial disaster often comes down to knowing what risks you\u2019re really facing, and having the right coverage before a disaster strikes.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Most landlord insurance claims fall into just three categories. Operate with these three items in the back of your mind, and you\u2019ll be better prepared when it comes to protecting your portfolio.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Let\u2019s dive into what causes the most common (and costly) claims, how to prevent them, and how to make sure you\u2019re <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/landlord-coverages\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">properly<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> covered<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">\u2014because the best claim is the one you never have to file.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">1. Weather-Related Damage<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Mother Nature doesn\u2019t ask permission before wreaking havoc. <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/blog\/hail-damage-roof-insurance-landlords\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Hail and windstorms<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> are the leading causes of weather-related insurance claims, and they can turn a profitable property into a financial headache.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Imagine a severe storm rolls through. Your roof loses shingles, a tree branch crashes through a window, and water starts pouring inside. The storm may only last an hour, but the aftermath can look like weeks of coordination, costs, and chaos.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How to protect yourself<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Schedule biannual roof inspections: A $50 repair now beats a $15,000 claim later. Check for loose shingles, <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">obvious<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> damage, and worn materials twice a year.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Trim trees aggressively: Any branch within 10 feet of the structure is a liability. One good gust is all it takes.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Document everything: After any weather event, take clear photos and videos before touching a thing. Keep receipts and estimates. Adjusters love documentation.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Most landlord policies cover sudden weather events, but limits can vary, especially for emergency repairs or temporary tenant housing. Know those details before you need them.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">2. Water Damage<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">If weather damage is the dramatic villain, water damage is the silent assassin. It starts quietly (a drip behind drywall, a <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/blog\/burst-pipe-water-damage-landlord-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">tiny pipe crack<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, a clogged drain line) and ends with thousands of dollars in repairs.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Burst pipes and roof leaks account for most water-related claims, and by the time you notice them, the damage has usually been happening for days.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How to protect yourself<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Inspect plumbing seasonally: This is especially important for systems older than 20 years. Corrosion and weak joints are early warning signs.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Winterize in cold climates: Frozen pipes are among the most common claim triggers. Insulate exposed pipes and keep <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">heat<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> on in vacant units.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Maintain gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters force water into foundations and walls. Clean them at least twice per year.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Service HVAC systems regularly: Condensate drain lines clog easily, often causing unnoticed leaks.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Educate tenants: <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Make it part of<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> your lease that all leaks, no matter how small, must be reported immediately.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Standard landlord insurance covers sudden water damage, <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/blog\/does-landlord-insurance-cover-floods\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">but <\/span><\/a><em><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/blog\/does-landlord-insurance-cover-floods\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">not floods<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">.<\/span><\/em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> If your property is anywhere near a flood zone, you\u2019ll need separate flood insurance.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">3. Theft, Vandalism, and Malicious Mischief<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Few things sting more than pulling up to find your property <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/blog\/what-happens-if-your-rental-property-gets-vandalized\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">vandalized or broken into<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">. Theft and vandalism can shake your confidence, stress tenants, and eat into your returns fast.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Common scenarios include:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Break-ins targeting appliances, copper wiring, or HVAC units<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Graffiti or broken windows on vacant properties<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Intentional damage from former tenants or trespassers<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Vacant properties are especially vulnerable. One weekend of vandalism can result in thousands <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">in<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> losses and insurance red tape.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">How to protect yourself<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Invest in visible security: Cameras, motion lights, and alarm signage deter opportunistic criminals.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Light up your property: Darkness can sometimes invite trouble. Bright LED lighting at entry points and driveways makes a big difference.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Screen tenants carefully: Not all vandalism comes from outsiders. <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/definitive-guide-tenant-screening\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Solid background checks<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> reduce the risk of damage from your own tenants.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Check vacant units weekly<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">: Hire<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> a manager or neighbor if needed.<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> Vacant doesn\u2019t mean unmonitored.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Build neighborhood connections: A watchful neighbor can be your best early warning system.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Most landlord policies cover structural damage from theft and vandalism, but not tenant belongings. <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/renters-insurance\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Require tenants to carry renters insurance<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">, and always file a police report for documentation.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">The Real Cost of Landlord Insurance Claims<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Many landlords underestimate the <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">true<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> cost of a claim, which goes far beyond repairs. For example, a $15,000 roof claim might cost you $2,000 in deductibles, $3,000 in lost rent, and higher premiums for years. Multiply that across a few claims, and your so-called safety net becomes a drag on your returns.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Typical claim averages:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Weather-related repairs: $5,000 to $15,000<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Water damage with remediation: $10,000 to $20,000<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Vandalism or theft: $2,000 to $5,000<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Every dollar you spend on prevention could save you thousands in future costs.&nbsp;<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Why Specialized Landlord Insurance Makes All the Difference<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">You can\u2019t prevent everything, but you can protect against the fallout. The key is working with an insurer built for landlords, not homeowners.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">That\u2019s where <\/span><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Steadily<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> comes in.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Unlike traditional insurers who treat rentals like side projects, Steadily was <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">built <\/span><em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">specifically<\/span><\/em><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> for real estate investors. Their coverage <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">is designed<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> for landlord realities: storm damage, tenant-caused losses, and loss of rental income.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Why landlords choose Steadily:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Fast, digital quotes (usually within five minutes)<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Transparent, investor-focused coverage<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Scalable policies for single properties or portfolios<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Nationwide support and a simple claims process<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Steadily understands how you operate, whether you own one door or 50. <\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Their<\/span><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> policies are written in plain language, tailored to your needs, and backed by service that moves as fast as your deals.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Prevention keeps your properties safe. Steadily keeps your investments secure.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Don\u2019t wait for a storm, leak, or vandalized unit to reveal your coverage gaps. Get ahead of the risk now.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a class=\"editor-rtfLink\" href=\"https:\/\/www.steadily.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\">Get your free Steadily quote<\/span><\/a><span data-preserver-spaces=\"true\"> and protect your rentals with insurance built for landlords like you.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>This article is presented by Steadily. It\u2019s 11 p.m. when your tenant texts: Water is pouring through the ceiling, and it\u2019s not stopping. Or maybe it\u2019s Saturday morning, and you\u2019re [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":613776,"featured_media":185435,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[7401],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-185443","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-insurance"],"acf":[],"comment_count":0,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/185443","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/613776"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=185443"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/185443\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/185435"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=185443"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=185443"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.biggerpockets.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=185443"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}