Protect your property: A guide to getting personal property insurance

by Diana Hellman 10/29/2023

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Homeowners insurance protects your home, but what about what’s inside? When peril strikes, knowing your belongings are covered financially can make a world of difference.

Here’s a basic guide to how personal property coverage can help secure your belongings.

What does personal property insurance cover?

Personal property coverage offers financial protection for your personal items if they’re damaged by certain perils.

Personal belongings covered under this policy type can include: 

  • Electronics.
  • Furniture.
  • Art.
  • Clothing.
  • Appliances.

There are two coverage types for this insurance: named perils and open perils.

Named perils policies only cover you specifically from perils listed. An open perils policy covers everything except the specific exclusions provided. 

How does personal property insurance work if you rent versus own?

Personal property coverage is included with renters insurance. It covers personal belongings the same way it would with homeowners insurance. 

However, the building you’re renting is not covered under the same policy. Instead, the property owner will have their own policy for the building itself.

What's not covered by personal property insurance?

Personal property insurance typically doesn’t cover: 

  • Flood damage.
  • Pets.
  • Auto-damages.

How much should I expect to pay for PPI?

Personal property insurance usually comes as part of homeowners or renters insurance. 

The average cost of a homeowners policy is about $1500 per year, while renters insurance costs about $160 per year. 

Personal property coverage can mean greater peace of mind. Discuss your coverage options with an insurance company to make the best decision for your property.

About the Author
Author

Diana Hellman

 Diana Hellman's passion for Larchmont inspires her more than 20 year real estate practice. As a certified buyer's representative, "The development of a solid and trusting relationship with my buyers and sellers is what I strive for." This success, primarily built on client referrals and repeat business, comes from her knowledge of what makes Larchmont unique: it's school system, recreational facilities, services and the special qualities that pervade this village's atmosphere. A former educator with a background in psychology, Diana knows that people don't want a sales pitch, but rather reliable, timely information. She and her husband have been residents of Larchmont for over 40 years. Her 3 children have attended the Mamaroneck Public Schools. She can give you expert advice with the sale or purchase of your home. Awards/Distinctions Multi-million dollar club- Westchester Board of Realtors International Diamond Society (8 million plus in sales), 5-Star agent in 2024. Gold Award- WBR (5-8 million dollars in sales) Silver Award – WBR (3-5 million dollars in sales) Memberships National Association of Realtors New York State Association of Realtors Westchester Board of Realtors Westchester Multiple Listing Service Community Former executive board member of the Central School Former selection school delegate for election of school board candidates Former executive board member of the Friends of the Emelin Theatre Former executive board member of the League of Women Voters