Does Renters Insurance Cover Cockroaches and Other Pests? 

If you’re dealing with an unexpected cockroach infestation from cockroaches or other pests, you might be wondering if your renters insurance policy can help. Unfortunately, the answer is likely no, renters insurance does not cover damages caused by infestations of any kind. 

Let’s dive into why infestations are likely not covered by your renters insurance policy, how to prevent an infestation, and explore whether other insects or vermin could be covered under renters insurance. 

Does renters insurance cover cockroaches?

Renters insurance is designed to protect a tenants personal property, aka your stuff, against specific risks outlined in the policy, often referred to as “named perils”, or covered perils. These named perils include events such as fire, theft, and water damage.

However, when it comes to pest infestations, such as cockroaches, renters insurance does not provide coverage as cockroach infestations are not a named peril in the policy. 

Is my landlord responsible for treating pests? 

Generally, landlords are responsible for pest control, especially when it impacts the property’s habitability. Local laws may require landlords to handle infestations caused by structural issues—like mice entering through cracks or roaches drawn to damp areas from leaks.

However, if a tenant’s actions, such as leaving food out or neglecting pet care, lead to a pest problem, they might be held accountable for the costs. Lease agreements often outline who’s responsible in different scenarios, so it’s worth checking the fine print.

Responsibilities can also vary by property type. For instance, in multi-unit buildings, widespread infestations like bedbugs often fall under the landlord’s duty. Local laws might also set deadlines for dealing with pests. 

While the specifics depend on the situation, landlords and tenants both play a role in keeping properties pest-free, and a renters insurance policy would not cover infestations. 

How can I prevent cockroaches at my rental?

Cockroaches are known for their ability to invade homes, often slipping through tiny cracks and gaps in doors or windows. These pests are drawn to food and moisture, making kitchens and bathrooms their main targets. Once inside, they can quickly multiply, resulting in a full-blown infestation if not dealt with promptly. 

Here’s some general tips to keep these pesky insects out of your home: 

• Regularly clean your kitchen, store food properly by using airtight containers to store food and reduce attractants. Reducing clutter in your home also minimizes hiding spots for cockroaches
• Cockroaches thrive in damp environments, so promptly contact your landlord to repair any leaks in pipes, faucets, or appliances, as it is usually your landlord’s responsibility to repair the structure of your rental home. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas to reduce moisture levels
• Routinely check areas like under the sink, behind appliances, and in storage areas for any signs of cockroach activity

If you notice any signs of a cockroach problem, inform your landlord immediately. They may need to take further action, such as professional pest control services, to address the issue effectively.

How can I get rid of cockroaches in my rental?

Cockroaches thrive in various environments, making them difficult to eliminate entirely. However, with persistence and the right techniques, you can reclaim your space. 

Here are some tips to help you eliminate cockroaches from your home:

• Consider placing cockroach baits or traps in strategic locations, such as under sinks and along walls, to monitor for any signs of activity and help control the population. 
• Apply insecticides specifically designed for cockroach control in cracks, crevices, and other hiding spots to directly target and kill these pests.
• Consider trying natural solutions, like diatomaceous earth which can be sprinkled in areas where cockroaches travel to dehydrate and kill them. Spraying a mixture of essential oils like peppermint or eucalyptus around entry points and potential nesting areas can also help repel cockroaches.

If your cockroach infestation is severe, it may be time to consider calling in a professional exterminator to assess the situation and apply targeted treatments that effectively eliminate cockroaches.​​ 

2024’s top ten U.S. states affected by cockroach infestations
1. California	6. Ohio
2. Texas	7. Pennsylvania
3. Florida	8. Georgia
4. New York	9. Virginia
5. North Carolina	10. Arizona

Does renters insurance cover mice?

No, mice infestations are typically not covered by renters insurance. Renters insurance policies cover damages caused by specific risks outlined in the policy , such as fire or storm damage, rather than issues related to pests or infestations.

How can I prevent mice in my rental? 

Preventing a mouse infestation begins with understanding their entry points and habits. Mice can enter your home through tiny openings, often accessing homes through cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, or via the attic or basement. 

Once inside, they are usually found in areas with easy access to food and water, like kitchens and pantries. They also look for dark, secluded spots to nest, making basements, attics, and wall voids common hiding places.

Check out these tips to safeguard your home from these unwanted guests:

• Add door sweeps to exterior doors to close gaps and block potential entry points 
• Store food securely and keep pet food sealed
• Remove clutter to reduce hiding spots for rodents
• Keep your home tidy and free of crumbs or food debris

How can I get rid of mice in my rental? 

Dealing with a mice infestation can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can successfully eliminate these unwelcome visitors from your home. Here are some practical steps you can take to get rid of mice for good:

• Use traps in areas where rodents are active
• Try using natural deterrents, such as peppermint oil and ultrasonic repellents 
• Declutter your home, especially basements, attics, and garages, to eliminate potential nesting spots
• If traps are not successful, consider using bait stations filled with rodenticides. Ensure these are placed in areas inaccessible to pets and children. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe usage

If the mouse infestation is severe, it may be time to call the professionals for extermination. 

2024’s top ten rodent-infested cities in the US
1. Chicago, Illinois	6. Denver, Colorado
2. Los Angeles, California	7. Philadelphia, PA
3. New York, New York	8. Detroit, Michigan
4. San Francisco, California	9. Baltimore, Maryland
5. Washington, D.C.	10. Cleveland, Ohio

Does renters insurance cover termites? 

As another type of insect, termites are usually not covered by renters insurance. While you may think that termites can only cause property damage to the structure of a home, they can also damage your personal property, such as books and wooden furniture. 

How can I protect my stuff from termites? 

When it comes to termites, your landlord is likely responsible for addressing infestations, especially when it comes to any structural property damage the pests cause. However, there are some steps you can take as a renter to make sure your stuff is protected from termites. 

Here are some tips to keep your personal property safe from these pesky critters: 

• Check wooden furniture for signs of termite activity, such as hollow sounds when tapped or visible tunnels
• Elevate furniture slightly to prevent direct contact with floors, reducing the risk of termite access
• Use airtight containers for storing books and paper materials to protect them from termite exposure
• Cover clothing and fabric items with plastic or other protective materials to shield them from termites

2024’s top ten termite-infested cities in the US
1. Miami, Florida	6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2. Los Angeles, California	7. Atlanta, Georgia
3. Tampa, Florida	8. Orlando, Florida
4. New York, New York	9. West Palm Beach, Florida
5. Washington D.C.	10. San Francisco, California

Does renters insurance cover other pests? 

Most standard renters insurance policies exclude pest infestations of any kind, including ants, flies, and bedbug infestations because the policy does not list damage from these insects or animals as a covered cause of loss, or named peril.  

To keep it short and sweet, the best way to combat pest infestations is to prevent them altogether. Keep your space clean, and always notify your landlord if you notice signs of an infestation. When prevention fails, early detection and mitigation is key to keeping your place pest-free. 

Before we go… 

Understanding the ins and outs of your renters insurance policy can help you manage expectations when it comes to pest infestations and other potential issues. While renters insurance likely won’t cover cockroaches, bedbugs, termites, or rodents, it offers valuable protection against many unexpected events, including fires or theft. 

Coverages under a renters insurance policy typically include: 

• Personal property coverage: Helps you recover the cost of lost or damaged personal belongings if your stuff is lost, damaged, or destroyed by a covered loss
• Additional living expenses: Also known as loss of use, covers costs like hotel bills, food, and laundry if a covered loss causes your place to be unlivable.
• Personal Liability coverage: Provides protection for instances in which someone gets hurt at your place in an accident – whether that means medical expenses or legal fees from a lawsuit. This coverage also provides protection if you accidentally damage someone else’s property

For a deeper dive into what renters insurance covers, check out this handy guide! 

Or, if you’re ready to safeguard your stuff, click below to get your free renters insurance quote.

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A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.