.png?width=2000&rmode=min&rsampler=bicubic&format=webp&quality=80)
Last Updated January 2026
- Having separate policies can help each roommate protect their own belongings. If a roommate isn’t named on the policy and doesn’t have one of their own, that roommate’s property would not be covered if there’s a loss.
- If a roommate isn’t named on a renters insurance policy or doesn’t have one of their own, there’s no liability coverage to help if they cause an accident and are found responsible.
- A shared renters insurance policy can create complications because coverage limits, claims and responsibility are shared, which may lead to disputes if one roommate causes damage or files a claim.
- Landlords may require each resident to have their own renters insurance.
- Renters insurance is affordable — averaging about $15 per month in 20221, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC).
The short answer: although it’s technically possible to have more than one person listed on a renters insurance policy, most insurers only allow family members or domestic partners who live in the home to be listed. However, Farmers® does offer endorsements that allow you to add unrelated individuals as named insureds on a single renter’s policy. This means each named insured’s property and civil interests are covered, regardless of their relationship to each other.
What does renters insurance cover?
A renters policy typically includes several types of coverage2. Here’s how each coverage works, and why each roommate might want their own policy:
Personal belongings
Renters insurance can help pay to repair or replace your things — like furniture, electronics and clothing — if they’re stolen or damaged in a covered event, such as a fire or burglary. If each roommate has their own policy, each person has personal property coverage for their own belongings, so there’s no confusion over who is owed if there’s a loss.
Liability protection
If someone gets hurt in the home you rent or you accidentally damage someone else’s property, liability coverage can help pay for related costs, including medical bills or legal fees. Having your own policy helps you make sure you’re covered if someone is injured — even if it’s your roommate’s guest.
Additional living expenses
If a covered event makes your home unlivable, your policy can help pay extra costs related to hotel stays, meals or temporary housing while repairs are made. Each roommate listed as a named insured on the policy could file their own claim for these expenses. However, if only one roommate has a renter’s insurance policy, the uninsured roommate couldn’t make a claim and would need to pay their own living expenses.
Learn more about renters insurance.
Can roommates share an insurance policy?
Technically, yes — but it’s usually not recommended. Renters insurance covers “named insureds” on a policy. So if a roommate is listed on the policy, they are covered. A few insurers, including Farmers, may allow you to add a roommate to the policy, but doing so can create complications, such as:
- One roommate’s claim could affect their shared rate.
- The coverage limit would need to be higher to include both roommates’ belongings, raising the premium.
- Disputes can arise over how claims are handled or who gets paid.
What are the benefits of having a separate renters policy for each roommate?
Avoid disputes
Separate policies help eliminate confusion over what’s covered and who receives claim payments. If one roommate files a claim, it doesn’t impact the other’s record or premiums.
Protect personal belongings individually
Each roommate’s belongings will differ, and having separate policies can help you with repairing or replacing your own belongings. For example, if you have a renter’s policy of your own and your gaming console is stolen, your individual policy could help cover the cost of replacement.
Provide liability protection for each roommate
If a guest slips and falls during a party, having separate policies means each roommate would have liability coverage that could help with medical bills or legal fees. Having your own policy ensures you’re personally protected, even if a roommate who does not have renters insurance is also found responsible. With a shared policy, you’d have a single coverage limit, shared responsibility and a shared claims history. If a roommate doesn’t agree with a claim or settlement, there’s no way to separate coverage or payouts later.
Offer continuous coverage even if a roommate moves out
If you or your roommate moves out, each person keeps their own policy, subject to underwriting guidelines and local availability. You won’t have to reapply or worry about being removed from someone else’s policy.
Affordable coverage without the confusion
Having your own renters policy can cost as little as a few lattes every month. The national average was around $15 per month in 20221, according to the NAIC. Learn more about the cost of renters insurance and coverage options in your state.
Comparison: Shared vs. Individual Renters Policies
| Feature | Shared Policy | Individual Policies |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage for personal belongings | Shared, may not cover everything | Tailored to each person |
| Claim payments | May need to be split | Paid directly to individual |
| Liability coverage | Shared limits | Separate protection for each roommate |
| Coverage after moving out | Ends when you leave | Moves with you |
| Impact on premiums | One claim may affect all | Claims can only affect individual policy |
How each roommate can get covered individually
A few simple steps can help you decide if renters insurance is worth it and get the coverage you want.
- Take an inventory of your belongings and estimate their value.
- Get individual quotes — many insurers, including Farmers, can provide additional options for coverage that you may want.
- Ask about discounts, such as bundling renters and auto insurance.
- Give your landlord a copy of your policy’s declarations page or a certificate of insurance.
How Farmers can help
Farmers offers individual renters policies you can tailor to your needs. And coverage is affordable. The average cost of renters insurance in the U.S. was around $185 per year in 20221 — a small price for peace of mind, compared to the potential financial risk of going without protection.
1 Insurance Information Institute, referring to countrywide data from National Association of Insurance Commissioners reported at: https://www.iii.org/fact-statistic/facts-statistics-renters-insurance: “Average Premiums For Homeowners And Renters Insurance By State, 2022.”; Based on the HO-4 renter’s insurance policy for tenants, which includes broad named-peril coverage for the personal property of tenants. Includes state funds, residual markets, and some wind pools.
2 In the event of a conflict between this information and the policy, policy language prevails.
The information contained in this page is provided for general informational purposes only. The information is provided by Farmers® and while we endeavor to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to this article or the information, products, services or related graphics, if any, contained in this article for any purpose. The information is not meant as professional or expert advice, and any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
Related articles
Does renters insurance cover pet damage?
Renters insurance can cover some kinds of pet damage but not others. Learn more about renters insurance coverage for pet damage — and its limitations.
How much is renters insurance?
Renters insurance cost varies depending on factors such as location and deductible. Learn how Farmers® can provide renters coverage for your needs.
Should I Consider Renters Insurance Coverage While Living in an Apartment?
Do apartment dwellers need insurance, or does the landlord's coverage handle it? A Farmers agent has the answer.
Does Renters Insurance Typically Cover Theft?
Renters insurance policies cover theft if you have personal property coverage. Find out how a Farmers® Renters Insurance policy can protect your belongings now.
