Renters Insurance in Minnesota
Welcome to First State Insurance Agency Southwest
At First State Insurance Agency Southwest, we know that your rental home is more than just a temporary space. It’s where you’ve worked hard to build a life. Many renters mistakenly believe their landlord’s home insurance covers their personal items, but that policy only protects the building itself. As a renter, you need specialized renters insurance to secure your belongings.
For more than 90 years, we’ve helped renters across Minnesota protect their belongings while living in a rented home or apartment. We aren’t just your insurance agents, we are your neighbors and partners. We understand the challenges of living in a rented apartment or home, and are here to help you feel secure.
What is covered by Renters Insurance in Minnesota?
Personal Property
Covers your personal belongings such as furniture, electronics, clothing, and appliances from perils like fire, theft, vandalism, etc.
Personal Liability
Protects you if someone is injured in your rented home or apartment or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property and face a lawsuit.
Additional Living Expenses (Loss of Use)
Pays for temporary housing, meals, and other costs if your rental home or apartment becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss.
Loss of Use (ALE)
Pays for additional living expenses (ALE), like hotel stays and restaurant meals, if a covered disaster makes your rental uninhabitable.
Medical Payments
Covers medical bills (usually $1,000–$5,000) for guests injured in your home, regardless of fault.
Optional Add-Ons
Additional protection like roadside assistance, rental reimbursement, gap coverage, towing costs, etc.
Why choose First State Insurance Agency for your Renters Insurance in MN?
Choosing the right rental insurance agency in Minnesota means finding an agency that values your security as much as you do.
- Your Independent Advantage: We aren’t tied to just one insurance company. We represent over 20 top-rated carriers, allowing us to shop around to find the best protection for your budget.
- Deep Local Roots: Since 1930, we have lived and worked in the same neighborhoods as you. We understand the specific risks of our climate, from heavy snow loads to summer windstorms.
- Personalized Protection: You are never a policy number to us. Our staff takes the time to listen to your story and build a policy that fits your specific situation.
- Your Advocate When It Counts: If you suffer a loss and need to claim, you won’t be dealing with a computer. You’ll have a local agent from First State Insurance Agency Southwest standing in your corner to help you through the claims process.
FAQs
Is renters insurance required by law in Minnesota?
While no Minnesota state law requires renters insurance, most landlords in Minnesota now require it as part of the lease agreement. Landlords typically want to see $100,000 in liability coverage to protect against accidents like kitchen fires or overflowing bathtubs.
How much does renters insurance cost in Minnesota?
Renters insurance is incredibly affordable in Minnesota. Renters insurance costs as little as $15 to $20 per month which is a small price for the peace of mind it provides.
Does one policy cover all roommates?
In most policies, one policy does not cover the roommates. Standard policies cover the named insured and related family members only.
How can I lower my renters insurance costs in Minnesota?
Lowering your renters insurance costs in Minnesota is most easily achieved by bundling your policy with your auto insurance. Maintaining a strong credit-based insurance score and staying claim-free for several years are also key factors that insurers reward with lower rates. Paying your premium in full for the year rather than on a monthly basis qualifies for a “pay-in-full” discount.
Does my policy cover my bike or laptop if they are stolen from my car?
Yes. This is one of the most valuable parts of having renters insurance. Your personal property is covered “off-premises” in such situations. Whether your bike is stolen from a rack downtown or your laptop is taken from your car, your renters insurance,not your auto insurance, is what replaces those items.
What happens if my pet causes damage to someone in my apartment?
We love our pets in Minnesota! If your pet accidentally bites a guest or trips someone in your apartment, your Personal Liability coverage can help pay for their medical bills and your legal defense. Just be sure to let your insurance provider know you have a pet so they can ensure your specific breed is covered by your carrier.