Glendale has a thriving rental market, with average rents hovering around $2,595 per month. The city attracts tenants looking for a great place to live, but many don’t realize how vulnerable they are to financial loss. Unexpected events—like theft, fire, or accidental damage—can leave renters with costly replacements and legal expenses. That’s why renters insurance is an essential safeguard for tenants, ensuring their personal belongings and liability are covered.

At Old Harbor Insurance, we provide insurance policies tailored to fit the unique needs of Glendale residents. If you’re leasing an apartment, townhouse, or single-family home, having the right coverage can give you financial security and peace of mind.

What Is Renters Insurance and Why Do You Need It?

Renters insurance protects tenants from financial losses due to theft, fire, liability claims, and more. Unlike homeowners insurance, which covers the structure of a home, this type of insurance focuses on safeguarding the tenant’s belongings and offering liability protection.

Many renters assume that their landlord’s insurance policy will cover their personal belongings in the event of a disaster. However, this isn’t the case—landlord insurance only protects the building itself, not the possessions inside it. That means if a fire, burglary, or water damage occurs, tenants are responsible for replacing their own belongings unless they have renters insurance.

Additionally, liability protection is a critical component of the insurance policy. If someone is injured while visiting your home—whether they trip over a rug or slip on a wet floor—you could be held liable for their medical expenses and legal fees. A renters insurance policy helps shield you from these unexpected costs.

What is Covered?

A standard renters insurance policy typically includes three key areas of coverage:

1. Personal Property Protection

This coverage helps replace your belongings if they are damaged or stolen. It applies to a wide range of items, including:

  • Electronics: Laptops, smartphones, TVs, and gaming consoles.
  • Furniture: Couches, beds, tables, and bookshelves.
  • Clothing: Shoes, jackets, and everyday wear.
  • Appliances: Small kitchen appliances like microwaves and coffee makers.

The insurance typically covers fire, smoke damage, vandalism, theft, and certain types of water damage (such as a pipe burst). However, it’s essential to review your policy to understand what’s included.

2. Liability Protection

Liability coverage protects you if you’re found legally responsible for injuries or property damage. Here’s how it works:

  • If a guest slips and falls in your home and decides to sue, your policy can help cover legal costs.
  • If your pet bites someone, the insurance can cover medical bills.
  • If you accidentally cause water damage to a neighbor’s unit, liability coverage may help pay for repairs.

At Old Harbor Insurance, we help renters choose the right amount of liability protection to ensure they’re fully covered in case of an unexpected incident.

3. Additional Living Expenses (ALE)

If a covered disaster (such as a fire) forces you out of your rental home, the insurance can help pay for temporary housing and essential expenses while repairs are being made. This includes:

  • Hotel Stays: Ensuring you have a safe place to stay while your home is restored.
  • Restaurant Meals: Offsetting the cost of dining out when your kitchen is unavailable.
  • Storage Fees: Protecting your remaining belongings if they need to be moved during repairs.
  • Laundry Costs: Covering expenses for washing and drying clothes when you no longer have access to your own facilities.

Glendale residents, in particular, should consider this coverage, as wildfires and other natural disasters can temporarily displace renters.

Glendale-Specific Risks: What Renters Should Know

Glendale is a fantastic place to live, but it has certain risks that renters should be aware of when choosing insurance coverage.

1. Natural Disasters

  • Wildfires: California’s dry climate makes wildfires a persistent concern. While standard renters insurance covers fire damage, it does not automatically include earthquake coverage.
  • Earthquakes: Situated near active fault lines, including the San Andreas Fault Line, Glendale is particularly vulnerable to seismic activity. Earthquake damage is not covered by a standard renters policy. Renters should consider adding earthquake insurance for extra protection.

2. Crime and Theft Risks

While Glendale is considered one of the safer cities in California, property crimes do occur. Renters should be aware of the following risks:

  • Break-ins and burglary: Apartments and rental homes can be targeted for theft. In 2022, Glendale reported 539 burglaries, equating to a rate of approximately 2.88 per 1,000 residents.
  • Vandalism: Damage to doors, windows, or personal belongings can be costly.
  • Car break-ins: Thieves often target vehicles parked in residential areas. In 2022, Glendale experienced 497 instances of motor vehicle thefts.

Having insurance ensures that if your personal items are stolen or vandalized, you can receive compensation for replacements.

Financial Benefits 

Many renters assume insurance is too expensive, but the reality is it’s one of the most affordable forms of coverage available.

1. Affordable Monthly Cost

  • The average cost of renters insurance is $15 to $20 per month—less than the cost of a streaming subscription or a few takeout meals.
  • Without insurance, replacing stolen or damaged belongings, such as electronics, furniture, and clothing, could set you back thousands of dollars out of pocket. A single break-in, fire, or burst pipe could significantly harm your savings.

2. Protection Against Major Expenses

Many renters assume liability risks are minimal until an unexpected accident leaves them facing tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages. Without renters insurance, these costs fall squarely on your shoulders.

  • A small kitchen fire could escalate, damaging neighboring units and leading to repair bills, smoke remediation costs, and even temporary housing expenses for displaced tenants.
  • A leaking appliance or overflowing bathtub could cause extensive water damage to multiple units, leaving you financially responsible for repairs.

With Old Harbor Insurance, we make sure you get the best coverage at the right price.

Legal Considerations for Renters

1. Landlord Requirements

Many landlords require tenants to have proof of renters insurance before moving in. This protects both the landlord and tenant from financial risks. If your lease agreement requires insurance, it’s best to secure a policy before signing.

2. Risks of Not Having Renters Insurance

  • Lease Violations: If your landlord requires insurance and you don’t have it, you could be in breach of contract. Failing to maintain coverage could put you in breach of contract, potentially leading to fines, warnings, or even termination of your lease agreement.
  • Eviction Risks:  Similar to lease violations, in cases where insurance is mandatory, continued noncompliance may result in eviction proceedings. A lapse in coverage could give your landlord legal grounds to remove you from the property, leaving you scrambling for alternative housing.
  • Financial Burden: Without renters insurance you are personally liable for injuries or accidental damage in your rental unit. You could face steep out-of-pocket costs, including medical bills, property repairs, and legal expenses.

Choosing the Right Policy

1. Assessing Your Needs

Before selecting a policy, tenants should:

  • Inventory Your Belongings: Estimate the total value of your personal belongings, this includes furniture, electronics, clothing, and household essentials.
  • Consider High-Value Items: Jewelry, collectibles, and premium electronics may require additional coverage beyond a standard policy.
  • Review Lease Requirements: Some landlords mandate specific coverage levels—ensure your policy complies with these expectations.

2. Selecting Coverage Limits and Deductibles

  • Higher Coverage Limits: Greater coverage is a hedge against the unpredictable. However, it may result in higher premiums.
  • Adjusting Your Deductible: On the other hand, opting for a higher deductible can lower your monthly payments, though it increases your out-of-pocket responsibility when filing a claim

3. Customizing Your Policy

At Old Harbor Insurance, we recognize that no two lives are alike, and their protection should reflect that. That’s why we offer flexible coverage options to ensure your policy provides the right level of protection:

  • Standard Coverage: Protects your personal belongings and provides liability coverage for accidents or damages.
  • Additional Endorsements: Extra protection for high-value items such as jewelry, collectibles, and specialized electronics.
  • Custom Policies: Tailored coverage options designed to match your specific lifestyle, heirlooms, and financial priorities.

Top Providers in Glendale

Old Harbor Insurance Services: Comprehensive Coverage Options and Personalized Service

At Old Harbor Insurance Services, we offer tailored policies to meet the unique needs of Glendale tenants. Our commitment to personalized service ensures that your belongings are well-protected. If you’re looking for reliable coverage, we can help you find the best policy for your situation. Our expert team will guide you through different policy options, ensuring you get the protection you need without paying for unnecessary add-ons.

Nare Shamiryan – Allstate Insurance: Competitive Rates and Customer Satisfaction 

Nare Shamiryan provides insurance policies with competitive rates, focusing on customer satisfaction and comprehensive coverage options. This provider is known for offering flexible deductibles and bundling opportunities that help tenants save money while maintaining solid protection. If affordability and excellent customer service are your priorities, this could be a great option.

Alex Amzoyan – State Farm Insurance Agent: Customized Policies for Individual Needs

Alex Amzoyan specializes in crafting insurance policies tailored to each tenant’s specific requirements. Clients appreciate the responsive service and the variety of policy endorsements available, including additional protection for valuables. With a strong reputation for claims processing and policy customization, this agency stands out among renters in Glendale.

Farmers Insurance: Flexible Terms and Diverse Coverage Options 

Farmers Insurance provides various insurance policies with flexible terms, allowing policyholders to select coverage that best fits their needs. Tenants can choose from multiple levels of coverage, including liability protection, additional living expenses, and personal property replacement. Their flexible plans make it easier to find a policy that aligns with different budgetary constraints.

GEICO: Affordable Rates with Nationwide Accessibility 

GEICO is known for its budget-friendly insurance plans and extensive nationwide reach. Glendale tenants looking for an easy online quote system and excellent discounts should consider GEICO. Their policies include liability, personal property, and loss-of-use coverage, making them a solid option for renters seeking affordability and convenience.

Chris Manoukian – State Farm: Personalized Service and Comprehensive Policies

Chris Manoukian focuses on delivering personalized service and insurance policies designed to provide thorough protection. Tenants looking for individualized coverage with strong customer support may find this agency a great fit. Additional features such as identity theft protection and high-value item endorsements make this a well-rounded choice.

Swanigan and Associates Insurance: Specialized Insurance Solutions 

Swanigan and Associates Insurance offers customized insurance solutions, catering to unique policyholder needs. Their team works closely with clients to ensure policies provide ample protection for personal property, liability, and living expenses in case of an emergency. If you have specialized coverage needs, this provider is worth considering.

MJW Insurance Broker: Flexible and Customized Coverage Options 

MJW Insurance Broker provides insurance policies designed to align with tenants’ specific coverage needs. Whether you require coverage for electronics, jewelry, or other high-value possessions, their team offers guidance on selecting the right policy. Their flexibility allows policyholders to find a plan that suits them best, no matter their budget.

ISU Insurance Services: Experienced Professionals with a Client-Focused Approach 

With extensive industry experience, ISU Insurance Services prioritizes client satisfaction by offering comprehensive insurance policies. This provider stands out for its attentive customer service and commitment to policyholder education, ensuring tenants fully understand their coverage. If you’re looking for knowledgeable professionals who go above and beyond, ISU is a strong choice.

Nationwide: Flexible Policies with Discount Opportunities 

Nationwide offers adaptable insurance policies, including various discounts that make coverage more affordable. Their policies include standard protection for personal belongings and liability, as well as optional add-ons for increased coverage. Renters who value flexibility and affordability will appreciate Nationwide’s offerings.

Find the Right Coverage for Peace of Mind 

Living in Glendale comes with many benefits, but unexpected events can happen at any time. Renters insurance helps safeguard your belongings from theft, fire, and water damage. Investing in coverage means securing financial protection and ensuring peace of mind.

At Old Harbor Insurance, we simplify the process of finding personalized, affordable coverage that meets your specific needs. Our team is dedicated to helping you compare policies and choose the best plan. Whether you need basic coverage or specialized protection for high-value belongings, we’re here to assist you. Protect what matters most—reach out today and let’s find the right coverage for you.

5 FAQs About Renters Insurance

What does renters insurance cover? 

The insurance typically covers personal belongings against risks like theft, fire, and water damage. It also provides liability protection if someone is injured in your rental unit and may cover additional living expenses if the residence becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.

Is renters insurance mandatory in Glendale? 

While not legally required, many landlords include renters insurance as a lease condition to ensure tenants can cover potential damages or liabilities, protecting both parties.

How much does renters insurance cost in Glendale?

The cost depends on factors such as coverage limits, deductibles, and the value of your belongings. On average, policies cost less than $20 per month, providing valuable protection.

Does renters insurance cover natural disasters in Glendale?

Standard policies typically cover damages from fires and windstorms. However, earthquake and flood damage usually require additional coverage or separate policies.

How can I choose the right renters insurance policy? 

Assess the value of your personal belongings, determine appropriate coverage limits, and consider additional endorsements for high-value items. Working with a reputable provider ensures you get a policy tailored to your specific needs.