Does Renters Insurance Cover Storage Units? A Detailed Guide

Yes, renters insurance typically does cover belongings stored in a storage unit, but there are important limits and exceptions you should understand. Here’s everything you need to know to make sure your property is fully protected—whether it’s inside your apartment or stored off-site.

How Renters Insurance Covers Storage Units

Most renters insurance policies include off-premises coverage. This means your personal property is protected even when it’s outside of your rented home—such as in a storage unit. However, this protection is typically limited to around 10% of your total personal property coverage.

Example:
If your renters policy includes $30,000 in personal property coverage, your belongings in a storage unit would usually be covered up to $3,000.

What Events Are Covered?

Belongings stored in a storage unit are typically protected against the same covered perils as the ones in your home. These usually include:

• Theft

• Fire and smoke

• Vandalism

• Lightning

• Water damage from burst pipes or accidental leaks

• Explosions

• Windstorms or hail (depending on policy)

This means if someone breaks into your storage unit or there’s a fire, your renters insurance could help reimburse you—up to the off-premises coverage limit.

What’s Not Covered?

Renters insurance doesn’t cover everything. Common exclusions include:

• Flood damage

• Earthquake damage

• Mold, mildew, and rot

• Pest infestations (e.g., rodents, insects)

• Damage due to neglect (like ignored leaks)

• War or nuclear hazard (yes, really)

Also, high-value items like jewelry, collectibles, and art may have coverage limits unless they’re specifically listed on your policy.

Should You Get Additional Coverage?

If you’re storing expensive or irreplaceable items, you may need more protection. You have a few options:

• Add a rider (endorsement) to your renters policy for higher limits

• Purchase separate storage unit insurance, often available from the facility itself

• Store only lower-value, replaceable items in the unit

Tips to Maximize Your Protection

• Create an inventory: List stored items, take photos, and keep receipts if possible

• Inform your insurer: Let your agent know you’re using a storage unit

• Choose a secure facility: Look for one with surveillance, controlled access, and climate control

• Review your coverage regularly: Make sure it still matches the value of your stored property

📦 Renters Insurance vs. Storage Coverage – At a Glance

Legend:
✅ = Covered
⚠️ = Partially covered or limited
❌ = Not covered

Final Thoughts

Renters insurance can be a smart way to protect not just your apartment but also your belongings in a storage unit. Just remember: while off-premises coverage exists, it’s limited—so know your policy, ask questions, and don’t leave valuable items unprotected.

Protect Everything You Own—On or Off-Site

At Toby Hansen Agency, we search nearly 100 carriers to find the best renters insurance for your needs—at the lowest price with the most coverage. Whether you’re storing a few boxes or furnishing your entire life, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Get a free renters insurance quote below in seconds.