HO-4 (renters policy)
Standard renters insurance form covering personal property and liability, not the building.
Plain definition
The HO-4 is the typical renters policy: it insures your belongings and personal liability in a rented home or apartment. The landlord’s policy covers the structure; your HO-4 covers your stuff, loss of use, and liability subject to limits and exclusions.
Why it matters
Landlords require renters insurance to reduce disputes after fire or water losses affecting multiple units. Without an HO-4, replacing everything you own is out of pocket.
Example
A neighbor’s kitchen fire spreads smoke damage to your unit. Your HO-4 may pay covered contents and additional living expense while repairs happen.
Common misunderstanding
Renters insurance does not cover the landlord’s building or your roommate’s property unless they are a named insured or their property is scheduled.
Policy language always controls. This is educational content, not advice. See our disclaimer.