Usually yes, with a lower limit. Most renters policies cover belongings in a storage unit through off-premises coverage, which is usually capped at 10% of your personal property limit.
With $30,000 of personal property coverage, your storage unit would be covered for about $3,000. Flood, mold and pests are typically excluded.
How off-premises coverage works
Renters insurance follows your belongings, not just your apartment. When items are somewhere else, like a storage unit, the policy's off-premises section applies.
That section has its own, smaller limit. Your policy declarations page will show it as a dollar amount or a percentage.
| Personal property limit | Typical storage unit coverage (10%) |
|---|---|
| $20,000 | $2,000 |
| $30,000 | $3,000 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
Category limits still apply inside that amount. A policy might cap jewelry at $1,500 and firearms at $2,500, whatever their actual value.
What is usually covered and what is not
Usually covered
- Fire and smoke
- Theft and break-ins
- Vandalism
- Water damage from leaks
Usually not covered
- Flooding
- Mold and mildew
- Mice, rats and insects
- Earthquakes, unless added
Coverage varies by policy. Some policies cover only theft at a storage unit. Source: Insurance Information Institute.
The exclusions are a reason to think about climate control for anything that can mold or warp. Insurance will not pay for humidity damage in most cases.
Do storage facilities require insurance?
Many do. Some facilities require proof of insurance that includes off-premises coverage. If you cannot show it, they will offer their own plan for a monthly fee.
Facility plans typically run $10 to $30 a month for $2,000 to $5,000 of coverage. That is a real cost over a long rental, so check your own policy first.
When to buy more coverage
- Your stored items are worth more than the 10% limit. Ask your insurer to raise the off-premises limit.
- You have no renters or homeowners policy. The facility plan or a standalone storage policy fills the gap.
- You are storing high-value items. Jewelry, art and collectibles may need a scheduled item rider.
Homeowners insurance works the same way
Homeowners policies also cover personal property away from home, usually with a lower off-premises limit. The details vary more by insurer, so read the personal property section or call your agent.
Common questions
Does renters insurance cover a storage unit?
Usually yes. Most policies cover belongings in a storage unit under off-premises coverage, typically up to 10% of your personal property limit. Flood, mold and pest damage are usually excluded.
Do all storage units require insurance?
Not all, but many facilities require proof of insurance. If you do not have a policy that covers stored items, they will offer a protection plan for a monthly fee, often $10 to $30.