Can You Transfer Renters Insurance to New Address?

Transferring renters insurance means updating your current insurance policy when you move to a new address. People often rent a home for a short time. Maybe they switch cities for work, or maybe their lease ends, and it’s time for something better. In fact, on average, Americans move 11.7 times in their lifetime (via U.S. Census Bureau).

But, in the moving process, renters insurance often gets overlooked. And unfortunately, if you fail to update it, your personal belongings won’t be protected at your new place. And that could cost you thousands of dollars if something bad happens.

In this article, we’ll show you how to notify the insurer, what changes to make, how to switch insurance companies, and whether you can transfer your policy to someone else.

Can You Transfer Renters Insurance to a New Address?

You don’t have to cancel renters insurance if you move to a new apartment. Because you have the option to transfer it to your new address. But it’s not an automation thing! You need to notify your insurance provider before the moving process begins.

This isn’t just a formality. Your renters insurance policy is strongly tied to where you live. That includes your zip code, your risk factors, and even your landlord’s details.

If you move and fail to update your insurance company, your renters insurance might no longer protect your personal possessions or any high-value items. Even if it’s just one unit over, your insurance coverage still needs to reflect that change.

Most renters insurance companies, including L.A. Insurance, make it easy. You can simply call our insurance agent, go online, or use a mobile app. Just share your new address, your move-in date, and any updates to your coverage limits.

Keep in mind that changing your address may trigger your insurance rate as well. If you choose to live in a higher crime rate zone or pick a place prone to natural disasters, these may affect your cost negatively. On the other hand, living in a building that has an advanced security system, you might get eligible for discounts too. But that, as always, depends on your insurer.

Before we're done answering things here, always remember to update your policy if you move to a new address. It’s crucial because it’s not just a piece of paper.

A renters insurance policy, in general, protects you with its three main coverages. Liability insurance covers legal fees, medical expenses, and property damage if something or someone gets hurt in your place. Another coverage is for personal belongings such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. And ALE (Additional Living Expenses) provides additional living expenses in case a fire or flood forces you out temporarily.

Check out our affordable renters insurance policy today. And if you’re already a valued policyholder of our affordable insurance agency, talk to our support team to update your new address. Call at (800) 893-9393 for a general query.

How to Transfer Renters Insurance to a New Address: Step-by-Step Guide

Moving from one place to another is already stressful. And we believe that transferring your renters insurance shouldn’t feel the same. You’re not starting over here. You’re simply making sure your insurance policy follows you to your new property without leaving any gap in coverage.

Most renters insurance companies make this process easy. But you still need to do it right. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you transfer your renters policy to your new address:

Step 1: Notify Your Insurance Provider Early

The moment you sign your new lease, call your insurance company. Or log into your account if they offer a mobile app or online dashboard. You’ll need to provide:

• Your new address and zip code
• The move-in date
• Any updates to your coverage options
• Whether your landlord requires proof of insurance

Early notice can help you avoid gaps in coverage during the moving process. It also ensures your personal belongings are protected from day one in your new place.

Step 2: Provide Accurate Details About Your New Home

Every property is different. And your insurance provider needs details to calculate risk and adjust your coverage limits if needed. You may be asked:

• Is it an apartment, condo, or single-family home?
• Are there any security features (like cameras or alarms)?
• Are you moving in with a roommate, partner, or pet?
• Have you bought new furniture, gadgets, or valuables?

Based on your answers, your renters insurance policy will change. It may affect your deductible, potential fee changes, and monthly instalments.

Step 3: Review and Update Your Coverage

Moving is the perfect time to reassess your insurance coverage. Your old policy may no longer meet your needs when you move, or new risk factors may arise in your new address. In this step, ask your insurance agent or insurance agency:

• Should I adjust my liability insurance?
• Do I need extra protection like umbrella insurance?
• Am I now a natural disaster zone?

Also, you should take a fresh inventory of your personal belongings so that you can make sure the replacement value is accurate in case of theft or other damages.

Step 4: Confirm the Transfer

Once everything is updated, confirm the changes. Your renters insurance provider should send you a new copy of your policy showing your new address.

Ask them to:

• Send proof of coverage to your new landlord (Only if they asked you to do so).
• Make sure there’s no lapse between your old and new property insurance.
• Provide any final payment details if your premium changes.

Step 5: Cancel the Old Policy Only If Needed

If your insurance company requires a new contract, you might need to cancel the old policy and start fresh. Just make sure not to cancel the current policy before the new one gets active. Some companies allow overlapping coverage for a short grace period, especially if you move states or switch renters insurance companies.

That’s all about how to transfer renters insurance to a new address. In the end, we recommend double-checking for final confirmation. Contact your insurance agent one last time and make sure your policy reflects your new address, there’s no gap in coverage, and you understand changes to your payment or deductible (if necessary).

What to Update on Your Renters Insurance When Moving Out of State?

If you’re moving out of state, don’t forget that your renters insurance needs to move with you. And that means updates.

Your new state might have different laws. Your new property could have different risk factors. Even your insurance company might not operate there. So here’s what you should check:

• Update your address right away. Your policy must match your new zip code. If it doesn’t, your coverage could be void during a claim.
• Confirm state coverage. It’s very important because not all insurance companies operate in every state. So, call your insurance provider or check online before the moving process starts. If they don’t cover your new state, you’ll need to find a new renters insurance provider and start a fresh contract.
• Moving to a new state comes with new risks, so it's important to reassess the risk factors in your new city. Check things like the property crime rate (e.g., theft, vandalism) and the likelihood of natural disasters. Based on what you find, you may want to take steps such as increasing your liability insurance limit or adding endorsements for specific risks like floods or earthquakes.
• Lastly, get state-specific policy documents. Some states may require proof of insurance sent directly to your new landlord.

Looking for renters insurance when moving out of state? No worries! L.A. Insurance offers renters policies in several states, including Michigan, Colorado, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, and Nevada. With over 200 regional offices in these locations, we provide the cheapest renters insurance coverage to protect you and your property. Contact us or get your free renters insurance quote right away!

Can I Transfer a Renters Insurance Policy to Someone Else?

When moving to your new apartment, you might feel the necessity to transfer your renters insurance to someone else. But unfortunately, you can’t do that. A renters policy is legally tied to the person who signed it. That means only the policyholder is covered, and you can’t pass it along, even if someone is taking over your lease.

But don’t get upset. Here’s what you can do:

• You can add a roommate to your policy if your insurance company allows it. However, that makes the claim process messy, particularly when it comes to splitting payments or replacement value for shared items.
• If someone else is moving in, they need their own insurance policy. It’s quick, cheap, and the safest thing to do.
• If you’re subletting, they’ll also need their own renters insurance. Your coverage won’t extend to them.

Can I Switch Renters Insurance Companies When I Move?

Yes. Absolutely. You can switch your renters insurance carrier whenever you want and when you move. You might decide to change your renters insurance provider for many reasons, such as:

• Your current provider might not offer the best coverage options for your new address.
• Your premium may increase due to new risk factors like a higher crime rate or different building features.
• Your current company might not even operate in your new state.

Learn More: How long does it take to get renters insurance?

Can I Transfer Renters Insurance When I Move: The Bottom Line

Yes, you can transfer renters insurance when you move. However, as we said, it’s not automatic. You must let your insurer know about it, update your new address, reassess your coverage limits based on the risk factors, and make sure your policy still fits your needs.

Related Readings:

Does renters insurance cover personal injury?

Does renters insurance cover broken windows?

Does renters insurance cover storage units?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to transfer renters insurance when I move within or across the state?

It's simple. Just contact your insurance provider and give them your new address, and update your coverage based on new risk factors. If you’re moving out of state, confirm your provider operates there. Otherwise, you’ll need to switch insurers and purchase a new policy.

Is renters insurance tied to an address?

Yes, your policy must match your current address to remain valid. Even small moves to a different unit require updating your information.

Is renters insurance tied to a property?

Not exactly. It follows you, not the property. But it still needs to reflect your new rental unit accurately to provide full coverage.

Can you have renters insurance in two places?

Usually, no. Most insurance companies won’t cover properties under one policy. But some allow brief overlaps when you’re moving.

Can I cancel renters insurance policy?

Yes, anytime. Just call your insurance agent or cancel online. But always make sure a new policy is active first if you still need coverage.