Does Landlord Insurance Cover Looting During Riots and Civil Unrest?

Yes—in most cases, standard landlord insurance policies include coverage for property damage and theft caused by looting during riots or civil unrest. If your rental property is broken into and landlord-owned appliances, fixtures, or materials are stolen, your policy may help pay for:

• Repairs to doors, windows, or locks damaged in the break-in
• Replacement of stolen landlord-owned items like refrigerators, stoves, or HVAC components
• Clean-up costs for vandalism accompanying the looting
  

In many urban areas across the U.S., incidents of looting have risen during periods of unrest. Events like protests or natural disasters can quickly escalate into widespread property damage. For landlords, having comprehensive protection is essential.

At Steadily, looting is covered as part of our riot and civil commotion coverage. This coverage gives landlords peace of mind, knowing their investments are safeguarded when the unexpected happens.

What Is Considered Looting?

In insurance terms, looting occurs when theft and property damage happen as part of a riot, civil commotion, or other group disturbance. This can include:

• Forced entry into the rental property during a disturbance
• Theft of landlord-owned property (appliances, fixtures, or materials)
• Vandalism caused while accessing or exiting the building
  

It’s worth noting that tenant belongings are not covered under landlord insurance. Tenants need renters insurance to protect personal items like furniture, electronics, and clothing. Landlords should encourage tenants to secure their own renters insurance coverage as an added layer of protection.

When Are Landlords Covered for Looting?

Landlord insurance typically provides coverage for looting damage when:

• The property is occupied or not classified as “vacant” under the policy terms
• The damage results from a covered peril like riot, civil commotion, or vandalism
• Repairs are needed to restore the property to a habitable condition
  

This means landlords can claim reimbursement for both structural repairs and replacement of stolen items, helping them recover financially without significant out-of-pocket costs.

When Might Looting Damage Not Be Covered?

While looting is generally covered, there are situations where landlords might face exclusions:

• Vacant Properties: Coverage may be limited or excluded if the property has been vacant for more than 30 consecutive days without vacant property insurance.
• Coverage Limits: Every policy has limits for vandalism and theft. If the cost of repairs and replacements exceeds those limits, landlords may be responsible for the difference.
• Excluded Perils: If looting occurs alongside an excluded peril (like earthquake or flood damage), coverage may not apply unless you have specific endorsements for those risks.
  

To avoid surprises, it’s critical to review your policy details and work with an insurer who understands the unique needs of landlords.

How to Prevent Looting Damage

While insurance helps landlords recover, prevention is still your first line of defense. Steps you can take include:

• Installing visible security cameras and motion-activated lights
• Reinforcing doors and windows with shatter-resistant materials
• Boarding up vacant units in high-risk areas during anticipated unrest
• Maintaining strong relationships with tenants and neighbors who can report suspicious activity quickly

Why Landlord Insurance Matters After Looting

Looting can leave landlords with thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs. For property owners in high-risk areas—like downtown districts of Los Angeles, Chicago, or New York—this type of coverage is not just helpful; it’s essential.

With Steadily, riot and civil commotion protection is included in a standard landlord policy. If your property suffers damage during unrest, we’ll help you get back on your feet fast.

FAQs

Does landlord insurance cover tenant belongings stolen during looting?

No. Landlord insurance only covers landlord-owned property. Tenants should carry renters insurance for their personal items.

What if my rental property was vacant during the looting?

Coverage may be limited if the property was vacant for 30+ days without additional vacant property insurance.

Does Steadily cover riot and looting damage automatically?

Yes. Steadily’s landlord insurance includes protection for riot, vandalism, and looting as standard coverage.

Final Thoughts

Civil unrest and looting can happen unexpectedly—but with the right landlord insurance, you’re prepared. Steadily’s policies include coverage for damage and theft caused during riots, helping landlords recover quickly and keep their investments secure.

Get a quote from Steadily and protect your property against the unexpected today.