Power outages can occur in Boise, ID, at any time for a variety of reasons. They can last several hours to several weeks, depending on the severity. While many use the downtime to figure out how to navigate and recover from it, one overlooked option is their renters’ insurance from Fuhriman Insurance Agency.
Is Renters’ Insurance Reliable During a Power Outage?
It depends on what caused the power to go out and what happened during the outage. Renters’ insurance policies typically cover the following causes:
- A lightning strike to the rental location or electrical equipment nearby
- High winds breaking power lines or damaging electrical equipment
- Damage to nearby power lines caused by an object falling on them
- Electrical system destruction caused by fire
Power outages caused by flooding are typically covered under flood insurance policies. If you’ve added earthquake coverage, you would have protection for outages caused by earthquakes. However, renters’ insurance typically does not cover power grid failures, utility company issues, or outages that occur outside the coverage area.
What Does Renters’ Insurance Cover During a Power Outage?
Acceptable situations covered in your renters’ insurance policy include temporary housing and spoiled food. For spoiled food, the average reimbursement is $500, though this amount varies by carrier. For temporary housing coverage—such as hotel stays, laundry, storage, and meals—the rental area must be deemed uninhabitable. If you qualify, coverage will remain in effect until you secure another permanent rental place to stay.
Do Both Guidelines Need to Be Met for Coverage?
Yes, coverage requires that both the situation (spoiled food or living arrangements) and the acceptable cause listed above occur during the outage period.
While renters’ insurance has its limitations, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. Fuhriman Insurance Agency partners with several renters’ insurance carriers to suit your needs. Whether you’re switching carriers or taking the first step toward renters’ insurance, we’re here to help. Contact us or visit our office in Boise, ID, for more information.