Being a landlord comes with more responsibility than just maintaining a property and collecting rent. Whether you own a single rental or multiple properties, your interactions with tenants can expose you to legal risk, sometimes in unexpected ways.
That’s where personal injury coverage becomes an important part of protecting yourself as a landlord.
What Is Personal Injury Coverage for Landlords?
In insurance, personal injury refers to coverage for non-physical harm, not bodily injuries. For landlords, this type of coverage can help protect against claims such as:
- Wrongful eviction
- Wrongful entry into a tenant’s unit
- Descrimination
- Invasion of privacy
- Defamation (libel or slander)
- Malicious prosecution or false arrest
These claims often stem from disputes with tenants and can arise even when a landlord believes they acted appropriately.
Common Personal Injury Claims Landlords Face
Landlords can face personal injury claims in everyday situations, including:
- A tenant alleging they were wrongfully evicted
- Entering a unit without proper notice and being accused of invasion of privacy
- A dispute where a tenant claims false statements harmed their reputation
- Posting or sharing tenant-related information that leads to a privacy complaint
Even if a claim is unfounded, the cost of legal defense alone can be significant and a cost that may be covered by this coverage.
Why Personal Injury Coverage Matters for Rental Owners
Tenant-related claims can quickly escalate into legal action. Personal injury coverage helps protect landlords by:
- Covering attorney fees and court costs
- Paying settlements or judgments, up to policy limits
- Protecting personal assets from legal exposure
- Providing peace of mind when managing tenant relationships
With increasing tenant protections and stricter housing regulations, landlords are more vulnerable than ever to these types of claims.
Is This Coverage Included in a Landlord Policy?
Personal injury coverage isn’t always included in a landlords or dwelling fire policy. Coverage details will vary by insurance carrier.
In many cases:
- Coverage limits may be lower than expected
- Certain personal injury claims may be excluded
- An umbrella policy may be needed for broader protection
That’s why reviewing your policy is critical, especially before a dispute arises.
Personal Injury vs. Bodily Injury: Know the Difference
It’s important for landlords to understand the distinction:
- Bodily injury covers physical harm, such as slip-and-fall accidents
- Personal injury covers non-physical claims, such as wrongful eviction or invasion of privacy
Both are important, but they protect against very different risks.
Protect Yourself Before a Claim Happens
Most landlords don’t realize they lack adequate personal injury coverage until they’re facing a lawsuit. Reviewing your coverage now can help ensure you’re protected before a tenant dispute turns into a costly legal issue.
We’re Here to Help Landlords Stay Protected
Whether you own one rental or a growing portfolio, our team can help you review your landlord insurance policy, explain your personal injury coverage, and recommend solutions that fit your risk exposure.
Contact us today to make sure your rental properties and your personal assets are properly protected.
Anderson Insurance Group: 801-262-1551
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