At DFW Rent Houses, protecting your peace of mind is just as important as protecting your rental home. That’s why we require all tenants in our Arlington, TX and surrounding area properties to carry active renter’s insurance throughout their lease term. Renter’s insurance provides essential financial protection for your personal belongings and liability and helps ensure a smooth resolution if something goes wrong.
This page outlines what renter’s insurance is, why it’s required, what coverage is needed, and how to submit proof of insurance through your tenant portal.
Why We Require Renter’s Insurance
While we maintain insurance on the home itself, that coverage does not extend to your personal property or your personal liability. In the event of a fire, theft, accident, or other incident, our insurance protects the building—but not your furniture, electronics, clothing, or other personal items.
Renter’s insurance helps:
- Replace your belongings if they’re damaged or stolen
- Cover hotel expenses if your unit becomes temporarily uninhabitable
- Protect you from liability if someone is injured in your home
- Offer peace of mind during unexpected events
Requiring renter’s insurance benefits everyone. It ensures tenants are financially protected and helps avoid costly disputes during emergencies or accidents.
What Your Policy Must Include
All tenants are required to carry a renter’s insurance policy with at least the following minimum coverage:
1. Personal Liability Coverage – Minimum $100,000
This covers injuries to guests or damage to the property caused by your actions or negligence (for example, leaving a candle burning or a bathtub running).
2. Personal Property Coverage – Recommended $10,000 or more
This reimburses you for your belongings if they’re damaged or stolen due to a covered event like fire, water damage, or theft.
3. Loss of Use or Additional Living Expenses
If your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, this coverage pays for your temporary housing and related expenses.
4. DFW Rent Houses as Additional Interested Party
You must list DFW Rent Houses as an additional interested party or certificate holder on the policy. This ensures we receive notification if the policy lapses, is canceled, or renewed.
Example listing:
DFW Rent Houses
[Your Property Address]
Arlington, TX
Where to Get Renter’s Insurance
Renter’s insurance is affordable and widely available. Most policies cost between $10 to $25 per month, depending on coverage levels and your provider. You can typically purchase a policy in less than 15 minutes.
Common providers include:
- State Farm
- Allstate
- Lemonade
- Liberty Mutual
- Geico
- USAA (for military families)
- Progressive
You can also bundle renter’s insurance with auto insurance to save money.
Be sure to review policy details and confirm your coverage limits meet or exceed our requirements before finalizing your purchase.
How to Submit Proof of Insurance
Once your policy is active, upload your declarations page to your tenant portal. This document outlines your coverage and policy dates. You can also have your insurer email it directly to our office.
We must have your proof of insurance on file before your move-in date and at all times during your lease. Failure to maintain active insurance may result in lease violations or additional fees.
Upload instructions:
- Log in to your tenant portal
- Go to the “Documents” or “Insurance” section
- Upload your declarations page or certificate of insurance
- Verify that DFW Rent Houses is listed as an interested party
- Ensure the policy covers the full lease term
Our team will review and approve your submission. If there’s an issue or missing information, we’ll contact you promptly.
What’s Not Covered
Renter’s insurance policies vary, so it’s important to review your coverage carefully. Some policies may not cover:
- Flood damage
- Earthquakes
- High-value items like jewelry or collectibles
- Roommate belongings (each roommate should have their own policy unless otherwise arranged)
Ask your insurance agent about additional riders or endorsements if you need special coverage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don’t have renter’s insurance?
Your lease requires renter’s insurance. If you fail to provide proof of coverage, you may be charged for a forced placement policy, fined, or found in violation of your lease.
Can I use my parents’ or someone else’s policy?
No. The policy must be in the name of the leaseholder(s) and cover the property address you are renting.
Will I be notified if my policy expires?
Yes, if you list DFW Rent Houses as an additional interested party, we’ll receive notice of cancellation or lapse. You are responsible for maintaining continuous coverage.
Questions or Help
If you need help understanding your renter’s insurance requirements or need assistance uploading your documents, contact our office or send a message through your tenant portal. We’re happy to guide you through the process.
At DFW Rent Houses, we believe in protecting your home and your peace of mind. Having active renter’s insurance is one of the simplest and smartest steps you can take to protect what matters most. Make sure your policy is in place today.
