Should I Add My Landlord to My Renters Insurance? Yes-Here's Why

Most renters eventually hear this request: "Please add your landlord to your renters insurance policy." But what does that actually mean, and what is the right way to do it? Here is the clear, simple answer.

The short answer

List your landlord as an Additional Interest, not an Additional Insured. Additional Interest gives your landlord notification rights only. Additional Insured would put them on your coverage, which is usually not allowed and rarely a good idea.

Additional Interest vs. Additional Insured

Bottom line: Landlords should be listed as Additional Interest. Additional Insured is meant for people like a spouse or roommate, not your landlord.

Why landlords ask to be listed

Landlords and property managers want to be listed so they can:

• Confirm your renters insurance is active
• Get notified if the policy is canceled or lapses
• Lower their risk of being pulled into a claim with no coverage in place

If your landlord needs to insure the building itself, that is landlord or habitational insurance, a separate policy they carry. Our guide on landlord insurance vs. renters insurance breaks down who covers what.

The risk of listing a landlord as Additional Insured

Putting your landlord on your policy as an Additional Insured can backfire. It can blur liability between you and your landlord, complicate or block a valid claim, and in some cases violate carrier rules. That is why insurers strongly prefer Additional Interest.

How to add your landlord (5 easy steps)

1. Contact your renters insurance provider or log into your account.
2. Ask to add your landlord as an Additional Interest.
3. Provide your landlord or property manager's name and mailing address.
4. Request your updated declarations page or proof of insurance.
5. Send that document to your landlord or upload it to your tenant portal.

The whole process is usually quick and free.

Real-world examples

Frequently asked questions