Updated December 17, 2025 . AmFam Team
Whether you’re a gamer, a collector, or someone who works from home, your electronics are a vital part of your life. They’re not just gadgets; they’re investments. So, what happens if the unexpected occurs? Will your renters insurance cover your electronics?
Let’s dive into how a renters policy can help safeguard your tech treasures.
Renters insurance isn’t legally required, but it can be a wise decision. When you purchase a renters insurance policy, you take a smart step toward safeguarding your electronics. Learn how renters insurance helps protect your investment.
Generally, most consumer electronics — including TVs, computers and gaming consoles — are covered under the personal property provisions of your renters insurance policy. However, if you own specialty equipment, like vintage electronics, consider getting them appraised so you know how much coverage you need.
Keep in mind, when your collection’s value exceeds your policy limits, you’ve got options. Reach out to your agent to get a quote for scheduled personal property coverage which allows you to list, or schedule, high-value items individually.
It depends. Claims for broken TVs are often denied if the damage is due to negligence. However, if a fire breaks out in your kitchen and destroys a nearby TV, you might be covered, provided that fire damage to personal property is a covered peril in your renters policy.
You may be wondering, “Does renters insurance cover my TV when it no longer works?” Much like homeowners insurance, if your TV stops working due to normal wear and tear, you likely won’t be able to file a claim to replace it.
For added protection of your personal property, consider equipment breakdown coverage which helps cover damage due to unexpected mechanical or electrical failure.
If lightning strikes your building, causing a surge that destroys your electronics, you’ll probably be covered after meeting your deductible. Even if only a few components need to be replaced to restore proper functioning of your equipment, contact your agent to discuss your coverage and whether or not filing a claim makes sense.
On the other hand, lightning strike damage to built-in appliances owned by your property manager aren’t covered under your renters policy. Refrigerators, dishwashers, microwave ovens and other electronic items that are the property of your landlord would most likely be covered under their insurance, and you’ll need to reach out to them for repairs or replacement.
Coverage for computer damage hinges on the cause. If your computer stops working after a covered event, you’re protected. Theft is also covered, but normal wear and tear isn’t.
Think of it this way: if someone breaks into your secured storage locker and makes off with your mountain bike, you’d probably have a permissible claim. But if your bike’s frame breaks after years of use, that likely wouldn’t be covered. The same applies to your tech.
It can, but there are a few important things to keep in mind. If the electrical damage is the result of a power surge, you could be covered. For instance, when electricity is restored after a power outage and a surge races through your rental’s electrical system, you may be covered for damages to your electronics after paying your deductible.
Intentional damage is a different story. If you throw your video game controller at your TV and destroy the screen, you’ll be on your own to purchase a replacement.
While most consumer electronics are protected by your renters policy, there are a few scenarios that may not be covered.
Illegal acts typically aren't covered by renters insurance. For example, if you use your laptop to commit a cybercrime and it is somehow damaged during the commission of the illegal act or when confiscated by law enforcement, your renters insurance won’t likely cover the repair or replacement of your equipment.
It's common for employers to maintain insurance coverage for equipment they own. So, if your employer provides a laptop you take to a coffee shop to do work, and that laptop is stolen or damaged beyond repair, your employer's policy should replace it. And if your employer doesn't carry insurance coverage? Renters insurance may help cover the loss, after your deductible and up to your policy limits — check with your agent to be sure.
Your electronics are covered if stolen or damaged in a covered event, whether at home or on the go. Types of losses include:
If there’s a fire in your apartment and your electronics are damaged by smoke residue or the fire itself, your renters insurance policy can help cover the expense to replace them.
Items stored in your car, on your person or brought with you while traveling may be covered under your renters insurance if stolen or damaged because of vandalism. Restrictions may apply, so be sure to check in with your agent about how your coverage works.
Events like flooding, earthquakes and pest damage aren’t typically covered by your renters policy.
If you’re worried about events like these damaging your electronics, talk to your agent about adding a special endorsement — or even purchasing a separate flood policy — to better protect yourself from these risks.
Your renters insurance has a personal property coverage limit. It typically covers the actual cash value of your items — what they’re worth today — after you pay your deductible.
To determine how much coverage you should have in place to best protect your electronics, use our printable home inventory spreadsheet. It includes sections for a variety of items, including expensive belongings, so you can get a complete picture of your coverage needs.
Connect with your American Family Insurance agent to discuss increasing your personal property coverage to safeguard your electronic investments. They’ll help customize your renters insurance so you can better protect what matters most.
You’ve invested time and money in your electronics. Reach out to your American Family Insurance agent to learn how you can get affordable, peace-of-mind coverage for the personal electronics property and other expensive items you keep in your rental or storage space.
This article is for informational purposes only and based on information that is widely available. This information does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal or financial advice. You should contact a professional for advice specific to your situation.
This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.
