Kitchen Fires in Rental Properties: What Landlords Need to Know

Kitchen fires are one of the most common causes of property damage in rental homes. Whether it's a grease fire, an overheated appliance, or a forgotten pan left on the stove, these incidents can escalate quickly and cause thousands of dollars in damage.

If you're a landlord, it's crucial to understand how landlord insurance covers kitchen fires—and what you can do to protect your investment.

Steadily offers full coverage for fire damage to your rental property. Learn what's covered.

What Causes Kitchen Fires in Rentals?

• Grease fires from cooking oil
• Unattended cooking (burned pans, forgotten stoves)
• Malfunctioning or outdated appliances
• Tenant negligence (e.g., leaving a towel near an open flame)
• Electrical shorts in microwaves or stoves

Is Fire Damage from Kitchen Fires Covered by Landlord Insurance?

Yes—most landlord insurance policies cover kitchen fire damage caused by accidents or tenant negligence. This includes:

• Structural damage to the kitchen (walls, cabinets, flooring)
• Replacement of damaged appliances provided by the landlord
• Repairs to adjacent areas affected by smoke or flame
• Loss of rental income while repairs are being made (if included in your policy)

Coverage may be limited if the property was vacant beyond your policy’s allowed timeframe (usually 30–60 days) or if the fire was started intentionally.

Protecting Your Rental From Kitchen Fires

• Require tenants to carry renters insurance
• Install and maintain smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
• Provide clear safety instructions for appliances
• Schedule periodic inspections to identify potential risks

Does Liability Insurance Cover Kitchen Fire Damage?

If a kitchen fire injures someone or spreads to a neighboring property, your liability coverage may protect you from lawsuits and medical bills. This is an essential part of any landlord insurance policy.

More fire coverage topics:

• Fire restoration timeline
• Wildfires
• Electrical fires

Bottom Line: Kitchen Fires Are Common—But Insurable

Kitchen fires are one of the top claims landlords face, but the right landlord insurance policy can help you recover quickly. From structural repairs to lost rent and legal protection, comprehensive coverage gives you peace of mind.

Ready to protect your rental? Get a landlord insurance quote from Steadily in minutes.