If you are a landlord, insurance is not just a box to check for your lender. A reliable landlord insurance policy can be the difference between a manageable claim and a financial disaster. The challenge is that “landlord insurance” is not one single standardized product. Coverage, exclusions, and claims experience can vary widely by carrier, state, and even by property type.
This guide focuses on national U.S. insurers that commonly offer landlord or “dwelling” policies, plus a practical framework for evaluating reliability so you do not buy a policy that looks good on paper but fails when you need it.
What counts as “landlord insurance” in the U.S.
Most landlords are buying some version of a Dwelling Fire / Landlord policy (often called DP-1, DP-2, or DP-3), not a standard homeowners policy.
A typical landlord policy may include:
- Dwelling coverage (the structure)
- Other structures (fences, detached garage)
- Personal property (landlord-owned items like appliances, not the tenant’s belongings)
- Loss of rents (also called fair rental value) after a covered loss
- Premises liability (injury claims)
- Optional endorsements for vandalism, water backup, equipment breakdown, ordinance or law, and more
How to judge whether a landlord insurance company is “reliable”
A reliable insurer is not just a recognizable brand. For landlords, reliability usually means:
- Financial strength (ability to pay claims after major catastrophes)
- Clear landlord-specific coverage options (DP-3 availability, loss-of-rents, liability limits)
- Reasonable underwriting for rentals (they actually want landlord business, not just “tolerate” it)
- Claims handling reputation (timely, consistent, and well-documented)
- State availability and consistency (some carriers pull back in certain states)
If you want a simple rule, start with financial strength ratings (such as AM Best) and then evaluate the policy form and endorsements for your property.
National companies that commonly offer landlord insurance
Availability and exact coverage vary by state, but these carriers are widely known and commonly used by U.S. landlords.
State Farm
State Farm is a common choice for small landlords because it is widely available and has strong agent support. Many landlords like the ability to bundle auto and other policies. As with any carrier, the key is confirming the policy is written as a landlord/dwelling form and includes loss-of-rents and appropriate liability.
Allstate
Allstate often offers landlord coverage options and can be attractive for landlords who want a large national carrier and bundling. Pay close attention to endorsements and exclusions, especially for water damage, vacancy, and older roofs.
Farmers (and Foremost)
Farmers is a major national brand, and many landlords also encounter Foremost, which is commonly associated with landlord and specialty property risks. Foremost is frequently used for rentals that do not fit standard underwriting as easily, such as older homes or certain property conditions.
Nationwide
Nationwide is another national carrier that may offer landlord coverage depending on the state. It can be a fit for landlords who want a broad carrier with multiple coverage options and bundling.
Liberty Mutual (and Safeco)
Liberty Mutual is a national carrier, and Safeco is commonly associated with Liberty Mutual in the personal lines market. Landlords may see landlord policies offered through these brands depending on the state and distribution channel.
Travelers
Travelers is a major national insurer that often writes property and liability lines and is commonly used in both personal and commercial contexts. For landlords, Travelers can be worth quoting when you want stronger policy form options and higher liability limits.
American Family
American Family is a large carrier with broad offerings, but availability and appetite vary by state. If it is available where your property is located, it can be a reasonable option to quote and compare.
USAA (eligibility limited)
USAA is not available to everyone, but eligible landlords often consider it because of strong customer loyalty and service reputation. If you qualify, it is usually worth getting a quote, but you still need to compare landlord-specific endorsements and exclusions.
Progressive (often via partners)
Progressive is widely known nationally, but landlord property coverage is often offered through partner carriers depending on the state. If you quote through Progressive, confirm the actual underwriting carrier, the dwelling form, and the loss-of-rents and liability details.
What to compare when you get quotes (the landlord checklist)
When comparing quotes, do not stop at premium price. Use a checklist and compare the same items across carriers.
1) Policy form and coverage level
- DP-1, DP-2, or DP-3 (DP-3 is often preferred because it is broader)
- Replacement cost vs actual cash value (ACV)
- Roof settlement terms and depreciation
2) Loss of rents coverage
- Is it included automatically or optional?
- How long is the coverage period?
- What documentation is required to prove lost rent?
3) Liability limits and umbrella compatibility
- Base liability limit offered (many landlords target at least $500,000 to $1,000,000 depending on risk)
- Whether the carrier offers an umbrella policy and what it requires
4) Vacancy and renovation rules
- How the policy defines vacancy
- How long vacancy is allowed before coverage changes
- Whether renovations require notice or a different policy type
5) Water damage, sewer backup, and mold exclusions
- What water losses are covered vs excluded
- Whether water backup is available by endorsement
- Mold limitations and sub-limits
6) Tenant-caused damage and vandalism
- Whether vandalism is included or optional
- How the carrier treats malicious mischief vs wear and tear
7) Deductibles and wind/hail terms
- Flat deductible vs percentage deductible
- Separate wind/hail deductibles in certain states
8) Claims process and documentation expectations
- How to report claims
- Whether the carrier requires preferred vendors
- What records you should keep (leases, rent ledger, photos, maintenance logs)
A practical way to choose the “best” company for your rental
For most new landlords, the smartest move is to get three to five quotes from national carriers and compare them using the same checklist.
If you own a basic single-family rental in a lower-risk area, you may prioritize price and simple claims handling. If you own in a catastrophe-prone region, you may prioritize financial strength, wind/hail terms, and a clear claims process. If your property is older or has unique risks, you may need a carrier with a stronger appetite for rentals and specialty endorsements.
AAOL member tip: treat insurance like a risk management system
Insurance works best when it is paired with strong operations. Keep a clean lease file, document property condition with photos, respond to maintenance quickly, and keep a rent ledger. These habits reduce losses and make claims smoother.
For landlord-first templates, checklists, and practical compliance guidance, join AAOL here: https://aaol.org/subscription-plan/
Legal disclaimer
This guide is for general educational information only and does not constitute insurance, legal, or financial advice. Insurance availability, pricing, and coverage vary by carrier, state, and property. Always review your policy forms and endorsements and consult a licensed insurance professional for guidance specific to your situation.
