Whether you were born a Seattleite or are a recent transplant, getting renters insurance in Seattle is a pro move to protect the things you care about.
Let’s get into the basics of renters insurance coverage in Seattle, and go through some scenarios of where it could really come in handy.
Here’s what we’ll discuss:
- What does your renters insurance cover in Seattle?
- Is renters insurance required in Seattle?
- How much does renters insurance cost in Seattle
- What’s the right amount of renters insurance coverage to get in Seattle?
- Who needs renters insurance in Seattle?
- How can I lower the cost of renters insurance in Seattle?
- Paw-some spots in Seattle for pet parents
- Getting to know Seattle
- Hidden gems in Seattle
What does renters insurance cover in Seattle?
Let’s break down the components of what your policy covers and your coverage options. Here are the main types of coverage you’ll want to know about:
Personal Property
‘Personal property’ coverage makes sure your personal belongings are protected, whether you’re relaxing at your apartment or off traipsing across Europe. So if your living room furniture is ruined due to water damage from that burst pipe, or your phone is stolen while you’re taking a trip to Berlin, your renters insurance policy has your back to assist you with the replacement cost.
Loss of Use
What about if disaster strikes? If you can’t stay at your home because of covered losses (like a fire or windstorm), your ‘loss of use’ coverage provides reimbursements for temporary housing and additional living expenses such as food, laundry, hotel parking, and more.
Liability coverage
If someone is injured in your apartment, or anyone on your policy causes damage to someone else’s property or stuff, your insurance company should have things like legal fees and property damage covered.
Medical Protection
Your insurance provider covers medical expenses if your guests get injured at your place, or if you accidentally hurt people outside of your home as well. Note that your renters insurance policy does not cover medical payments if you or your roommates are injured—only non-residents and guests.
Is renters insurance required in Seattle?
Renters insurance is not required by law in Seattle, but your individual landlord might specifically require it. And if your lease specifies that you need renters insurance, well… that’s that.
Even if it isn’t required, safeguarding your stuff with renters insurance is still arguably a good idea. For example, if a burglar sneaks into your apartment while you’re traveling and steals your valuables, renters insurance can help cover the costs to replace your stolen items. And perils like burglary and theft in Seattle might be more common than you’d think. There’s an average of 2,162 burglaries and 7,651 thefts in Seattle per year for every 100,000 residents, according to usa.com*.
The good news is that it’s easy to sign up for a renters insurance policy with Lemonade, and you’ll thank yourself later if your stuff gets stolen or damaged! When signing up for Washington renters insurance, your landlord might request they be added as an ‘interested party’ on your policy. This just means they’ll be kept in the loop when you make any changes to your renters insurance coverage —or if you cancel your policy. It’s super easy to add them using the Lemonade app.
How much does renters insurance cost in Seattle?
The average monthly cost of renters insurance in Seattle is $14, according to ValuePenguin. That’s 2% more than the average cost in the state of Washington.
Did you know that the cost of Lemonade renters insurance across the US is around $14 a month, with policies starting as little as $5/month? It’s important to keep in mind that your policy price depends on a lot of factors—like where you live, your deductible, and the actual amount of coverage you need.
But the truth is, the best way to get a sense for how much you’ll pay for renters insurance is to build a quote. Click below to get started.
What’s the right amount of renters insurance coverage to get in Seattle?
There’s no easy answer to that question, and it depends on how much stuff you have to cover, and what it’s worth. As we discussed above, your policy has a few main categories: Contents (your stuff); Loss of Use (temporary living expenses); and then personal liability and medical bills.
You’re able to set the coverage limits for these categories when you sign up for a Lemonade policy. Lower coverage limits might save you a few bucks on your monthly premiums—but they might also leave you with insufficient coverage when you have to make a claim. You’ll also need to figure out your deductible. It’s a balancing act, and one that requires you to think about your property and lifestyle. Take a few minutes to apply to see your renters insurance quote to get a sense of your insurance options.
Also, if you’ve got valuables that are especially pricey or important—things like engagement rings, fancy cameras, musical instruments, or artworks—you can add ‘scheduled personal property coverage’ for those items. At Lemonade we simply call it ‘Extra Coverage’—here’s a bunch more info about that.
Who needs renters insurance in Seattle?
All renters in Seattle should get renters insurance, since it offers vital financial protection at a very low cost.
Like we mentioned above, your landlord or property manager may require renters insurance, but there are so many scenarios where you’d be grateful to have your stuff covered in Seattle with renters insurance.
You’re a college student
Renters insurance provides college students who live off campus a safety net, ensuring you can focus on your studies without the worry of unexpected financial burdens from things like theft or accidents.
Picture this: You drive down to an off-campus coffee shop for some much needed brain fuel during exams cramming. You park your car and head inside, leaving your laptop and AirPods Max on the passenger seat. While you’re inside waiting for your matcha latte, a thief smashes your passenger window and steals your electronics.
Having car insurance that includes comprehensive coverage covers the broken car window, but you’d need renters insurance to get reimbursed for the things that were stolen from the car.
You’re engaged or married
It’s easy to cover your engagement ring, wedding ring, or just about any piece of jewelry with a renters insurance policy.
At Lemonade, $1,500 worth of jewelry is insured in the base plan for theft. In other words, the total cost of all your jewelry is covered only up to $1,500 if someone comes in to take your stuff. But you’ll likely need more coverage than that to fully protect your new bling.
You can also purchase Extra Coverage (also known as scheduling) to cover just about any damage to your engagement ring—except normal wear and tear—up to its full value. That means that if the ring gets lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get it replaced, without paying a deductible.
To include Extra Coverage for your engagement ring on a Lemonade Renters policy, you’ll just need to submit some simple documentation on the Lemonade app.
If you chip your sparkler on a V5 route at the bouldering gym, or it gets swiped from the gym locker while you’re in the shower, you’ll wish you’d said “I do” to Extra Coverage.
You’re a hobbyist
Renters insurance can help safeguard your stuff when you have a passion or hobby that includes expensive gear or valuable items—like a camera, musical instrument, or art.
Imagine you just bought a GoPro Hero 11 for a leisure scuba diving excursion in the Philippines. A standard renters insurance policy covers your camera against named perils like theft, fire, or vandalism.
But if a Parrot fish gets too friendly with the camera and bites the lenses of your GoPro, leaving it with the crack, you’ll need Extra Coverage to help with the costs to get your cracked camera repaired or replaced.
You’re a diehard cyclist
Bikes are more than just a vehicle, they’re a lifestyle. But have you considered how renters insurance can be a vital ally for your cycling passion?
Picture this: You cover your high-end road bike that you use for daily commutes and weekend adventures and store your bike in your apartment’s shared garage. One morning you head to the garage to get your wheels out for a leisure Saturday ride, only to discover it’s been stolen. Your renters insurance steps in to save the day, helping cover the cost to replace your stolen bike.
If your bike is stolen or vandalized while it’s in your home, garage, or even while you’re out and about, Lemonade renters insurance can help cover the cost of replacement or repair. Meaning you can get back to riding without the heavy burden of an unexpected financial hit.
But what about accidents while you’re cycling? If you accidentally collide with a pedestrian or damage someone’s property with your bike, your policy’s personal liability coverage could cover the other person’s resulting medical or repair bills.
Plus, when you add Extra Coverage for your road bike, your ride will be covered for just about anything except for wear and tear, without a deductible. But it’s best to check your policy for details of what is and isn’t covered.
You’re a pet parent
Your Renters policy’s personal liability coverage could help cover medical expenses of another dog or person related to a dog bite if your dog bites them, as well as additional damages. That’s one of the many reasons why pet parents should get renters insurance.
Renters insurance won’t cover your pets medical expenses though (that’s where pet insurance comes in).
How can I lower the cost of renters insurance in Seattle?
Here are a few ways that you can save on your renters insurance payments with Lemonade.
1. Bundle your Lemonade insurance policies
One of the easiest ways to save money on your renters insurance is to bundle it with our car or pet or life insurance.
When you bundle your policies, you’ll be eligible for a Lemonade bundle discount. The more policies you bundle, the more you’ll save.
2. Install security devices
Your home doesn’t need to be ‘smart’ in order to install some devices that will help to lower renters insurance cost. Start with a standard fire alarm and burglar alarm, and you’ve already lowered your risks (for additional tips to secure your home, check out this post). And lowered risks equals lowered premiums. Which equals more lattes?
3. Increase your deductible
Another way to save on your renters insurance payments is to increase your deductible. Your deductible is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.
By increasing your deductible, you can lower your monthly premium.
4. Adjust your coverage
Lastly, you can adjust your coverage to fit your needs. The more coverage you have, the higher your premium will be. If you’re looking to save money, consider reducing your coverage to only what you need. Just be sure that you have enough coverage to protect your belongings and liability, and to meet any requirements for coverage that may be laid out in your lease agreement.
Don’t forget: You can always update your coverage limits, whenever and wherever, on the Lemonade app with no brokers or paperwork involved.
Paw-some spots in Seattle for pet parents
Living in Seattle as a pet parent means you’re in a great place for pet-friendly activities and supplies! Here are five places you won’t want to miss:
- Magnuson Park Off-Leash Dog Area: This is one of the largest off-leash dog parks in Seattle, offering plenty of space for your furry friend to run, play, and socialize with other dogs. With access to Lake Washington shoreline, it’s a beautiful spot for both you and your pet.
- All The Best Pet Care: This local chain of pet supply stores is known for its high-quality, natural pet products. From food and treats to toys and accessories, you’ll find everything you need to keep your pet healthy and happy.
- Discovery Park: While not exclusively for pets, Discovery Park is a vast natural area with miles of trails perfect for on-leash walks with your dog. The views of Puget Sound and diverse ecosystems make it a refreshing outing for both you and your furry companion.
- Dogwood Play Park: This unique indoor/outdoor dog park and bar is a great place to socialize with other pet parents while your dog gets some exercise. Enjoy a drink or snack while your pup plays in a safe, supervised environment.
- Mud Bay: Another popular pet supply store in the area, Mud Bay focuses on natural and holistic pet products. They also offer grooming services and expert advice from knowledgeable staff, making it a go-to destination for many pet owners in Seattle.
These spots should offer a nice variety of activities and resources to keep you and your pet happy in Seattle.
Getting to know Seattle
With a walk score of 74, a transit score of 60, and a bike score of 71, according to Walkscore.com, there are plenty of options for getting around Seattle—and countless exciting places to explore that will help you get to know this vibrant city better. Here are five ideas to kickstart your Seattle adventure:
- Pike Place Market: Dive into Seattle’s bustling food and artisan scene at Pike Place Market. From fresh seafood and local produce to unique crafts and entertainment, this iconic market offers a sensory feast and a glimpse into the heart of the city.
- Space Needle and Seattle Center: Take in panoramic views of the city from the top of the Space Needle, a symbol of Seattle’s innovation and futuristic spirit. Explore the surrounding Seattle Center, home to museums, theaters, and outdoor spaces perfect for leisurely strolls.
- Chihuly Garden and Glass: Immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of glass art at Chihuly Garden and Glass. Marvel at Dale Chihuly’s breathtaking installations, both indoors and in the outdoor garden, showcasing the beauty of glass in vibrant colors and intricate forms.
- Fremont Neighborhood: Experience Seattle’s quirky and artistic side in the Fremont neighborhood. Visit the Fremont Troll under the Aurora Bridge, explore eclectic shops and galleries, and don’t miss the “Center of the Universe” sign marking this vibrant community’s unique identity.
- Seattle Waterfront: Discover the maritime heritage of Seattle along its picturesque waterfront. Stroll along Alaskan Way, visit the Seattle Aquarium to learn about local marine life, and savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while enjoying views of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
These diverse attractions offer a taste of Seattle’s culture, creativity, and natural beauty, making your exploration of the city as a new local truly memorable.
Hidden gems in Seattle
Seattle is full of hidden gems and lesser-known spots that offer unique experiences away from the usual tourist haunts. Here are five cool spots to discover as you explore the city:
- Kubota Garden: Tucked away in the Rainier Beach neighborhood, Kubota Garden is a stunning Japanese garden showcasing a blend of traditional Japanese landscaping with Pacific Northwest elements. Explore serene paths, ponds, and lush greenery for a peaceful escape from the city bustle.
- Theo Chocolate Factory Tour: Indulge your sweet tooth and learn about the art of chocolate-making at Theo Chocolate. Take a guided tour of this Fair Trade and organic chocolate factory in Fremont, where you can sample delicious chocolates while gaining insights into sustainable chocolate production.
- Gas Works Park: Offering a unique blend of industrial history and recreational space, Gas Works Park in Wallingford features remnants of a former gasification plant amid open fields and panoramic views of downtown Seattle. It’s a great spot for picnics, kite flying, and enjoying sunset vistas.
- Ye Olde Curiosity Shop: Step into a world of oddities and curiosities at Ye Olde Curiosity Shop on the Seattle waterfront. Founded in 1899, this quirky store showcases an eclectic collection of artifacts, natural wonders, and bizarre items, including a mummy and shrunken heads.
- Columbia City: Explore the vibrant and diverse Columbia City neighborhood, known for its historic charm, multicultural eateries, independent shops, and arts scene. Catch live music performances, browse through unique boutiques, and savor global cuisine in this hidden gem of a community.
These lesser-known spots offer a glimpse into Seattle’s offbeat charm and provide memorable experiences beyond the city’s more famous attractions.
* Averages calculated from 2010 to 2014 stats.
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.
