The Houston Texas area has a very high density of apartments. As an insurance agent in that area we have a lot of interest in apartment renters insurance. Some carriers do not offer insurance in the Houston market because of the risk of hurricane. Companies that do write in Houston will charge a higher premium for the area. However even in coastal areas rates are still affordable.

Many apartments are now requiring tenants to have a renter’s insurance policy. Some customers ask for the least expensive policy that will satisfy the landlord. In Houston the minimum coverage usually costs from $10 to $15 per month. A typical policy in that price range includes $10,000 for personal property, $50,000 for liability, and $1,000 in loss or use coverage. This is a good level of coverage for the cost, and certainly better than no coverage.

For tenants with more than a small amount of personal property it may be advisable to upgrade. A mid level policy could include $25,000 in personal property, an upgrade to “replacement cost”, $100,000 in liability coverage, plus $2,500 for loss of use coverage. This might be in the $35 per month range. Other upgrades could include higher personal property and liability limits, identity theft coverage, scheduled jewelry, and possibly higher sub limits for items such as computer equipment.

(There are many rating factors so your actual premium could be more or less that the costs mentioned)

Policy’s have limitations so have an experienced agent explain details, and help select the right coverage for your needs. If your budget is tight you could get an inexpensive policy and upgrade later. Some consumers become very interested in getting coverage or upgrading after a burglary, fire, hurricane damage or other disaster. Don’t wait until it is too late!