Does Renters Insurance Cover Food Loss?

A standard renters insurance policy covers food loss or spoilage under personal property coverage. It’s essential to buy sufficient personal property coverage because it helps you repair or replace your personal items in case of damage due to a covered event, like theft, fire or a hurricane. Items commonly covered by personal property coverage include furniture, appliances and electronics.

If you need more information on how much coverage you should buy and what it covers, you can read MoneyGeek’s guide on personal property coverage.

If you have a standard renters insurance policy, the insurance company will cover food loss under personal property coverage. MoneyGeek explained the following instances below in which your policy will cover food loss.

Most renters insurance policies generally do not cover damage caused by a power surge. However, the food loss will be covered if the power surge is caused by a covered peril, like lightning. Also, the policy will only pay for the spoiled food you purchased. If anyone else lives with you and doesn't have a renters policy, their food won't be covered.

There are many instances when a renters insurance policy won’t cover food loss, like if your refrigerator breaks down due to failing to complete regular maintenance or normal wear and tear. Your insurance company also won’t reimburse you for the cost of spoiled food if natural disasters like floods or earthquakes cause a power outage or any damage to your refrigerator.

While a renters insurance policy covers the cost of food loss, preventing your food from getting spoiled will help you avoid unnecessary hassle. MoneyGeek found that placing an ice block in your refrigerator, keeping its doors closed and throwing out rotten food will help keep your food safe.

If you’re looking for a renters insurance policy, you can get it from major insurance companies, like State Farm and American Family, or regional ones, like Lemonade and Toggle. Before buying a policy, it’s important to compare insurance quotes to help you understand which insurer is the best fit for your needs.

On average, it costs $13 per month for a renters insurance policy. However, you may have to pay a different price depending on how much stuff you own. MoneyGeek’s personal property calculator below can help you estimate your renters insurance costs based on the value of your personal property.