Dwelling coverage insures the structure; SmartFinancial advises sizing it to the cost of rebuilding the home if it were destroyed. Higher limits raise the premium, and a higher deductible can lower the premium but raises what you pay out of pocket on a claim1.
Renters insurance covers your belongings and liability. SmartFinancial notes that many landlords require it, and that valuables can carry sublimits: jewelry might be covered only up to $1,500 even with $100,000 of personal property coverage2.
Renting out a home you own. EverQuote explains that homeowners insurance is for owner-occupied homes; once a tenant lives there you typically need a landlord (dwelling) policy instead, and using a homeowners policy on a tenant-occupied house risks a denied claim or cancellation. Call your insurer before you list the property3.
Hurricanes. EverQuote describes hurricane cover as a homeowners policy combined with flood and sometimes windstorm insurance, often with a 30-day waiting period, and notes that some states stop sales once a hurricane watch or warning is issued4. Buy before the season, not before the storm.