Accidentally started a fire?

Started a Fire in Your Rental — Are You Covered? (US)

Renters personal liability covers accidental fire damage to the landlord's building. Intentional or grossly negligent — no. Depends on wording.

Your policy is the only source of truth

Get a precise answer for your exact policy

Generic answers don't pay claims. PolicyPal reads your policy wording in seconds and tells you, in one sentence, whether you're covered.

Upload your policy$3 per analysis · $9 for all 4 tools · No subscription

The short answer

Renters insurance personal liability (usually $100K–$300K) covers accidental fire damage to the landlord's property when you're legally responsible. Your own contents are covered too. Grossly negligent behavior (illegal cooking device, arson) is excluded. Landlord's insurance pays first for the building, then subrogates against you — your liability limit covers the difference.

Frequently asked

Will they sue me?
Landlord's insurer subrogates against your liability policy. That's why the coverage exists — settlement usually stays within limits.

Your policy is the only source of truth

Stop guessing. Check your actual policy.

Generic answers don't pay claims. PolicyPal reads your policy wording in seconds and tells you, in one sentence, whether you're covered.

Upload your policy$3 per analysis · $9 for all 4 tools · No subscription