Owning a rental property is often a smart investment, but what happens if you don’t live nearby to manage and check-in on it yourself? Being an absentee landlord comes with unique responsibilities, as well as risks. Absentee landlord insurance proves to be essential in these situations and something to consider.  

Close up of a property's door lock that has a key in it with a small house hanging from it. What is an Absentee Landlord?

An absentee landlord is someone who owns a rental property but does not live on-site or even nearby. Due to the landlord not being physically present, managing maintenance and emergencies as well as tenant issues can become complicated.  

What is Absentee Landlord Insurance?

Absentee Landlord Insurance is a type of rental property insurance that is tailored for landlords who do not live near the property. It goes beyond standard homeowner’s insurance by addressing specific risks that can come with renting a property out from a distance.  

Absentee Landlord coverage typically includes:
 

  • Property damage protection (such as damage from fire, vandalism, weather, etc.)  

  • Liability insurance (in the event someone is injured on the property) 

  • Loss of rental income (if the property were to become uninhabitable due to a covered loss) 

Why is Absentee Landlord Insurance Important? 

When you’re not around to check in or keep an eye on your property regularly yourself, small problems can turn into major ones. Specialized coverage is important for: 

  • Delayed response to an issue 

  • High risk of vandalism or theft 

  • Liability exposure 

  • Peace of mind 

Who Needs Absentee Landlord Insurance? 

You should consider getting absentee landlord coverage if you own a rental property but don’t live nearby, travel frequently or are not always available for property issues, manage various rental properties, or utilize property managers or rely on tenants for minor upkeep.  

Standard homeowner’s policies typically exclude or limit coverage for tenant-occupied or unattended properties, making proper landlord insurance essential.  

How Can I Get Absentee Landlord Insurance?
 

At Sutherland Insurance, we make the process of getting the right protection simple. Our team of experienced sales brokers will thoroughly explain what your options are clearly so you understand what is included and what is not. They will also tailor your coverage so that you are protected for the specific risks of being an absentee landlord.  

We work with a range of insurance providers in order to find the best policy for your situations and work with you every step of the way.  

If you’re an absentee landlord, insurance isn’t just a smart move, it’s an important safety net. The right policy will help to protect your investments, support your financial stability, and give you confidence that your property is secure, even when you’re not close by.  

If you’re ready to protect your rental property from afar, contact the team at Sutherland Insurance and receive your free quote today. 

 

The content provided in this article are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.  

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