18.11 What your lease and renters insurance say

The lease

• Read the clauses on “alterations,” “locks,” and “damages.” Most leases prohibit drilling, changing locks, or installing fixed devices without written permission.
• Request any improvement in writing (a dated email): reinforcement plate, long screws, window film, doorbell camera. Keep the response.
• The rules in your state or city often require the landlord to install certain security devices on doors and windows (see chapter 9). If they are missing, request them in writing.
• Anything that doesn't require construction work (portable security bars, filters, containers, pre-cut plastic) normally doesn't need permission.
• Check whether the lease limits the weight or type of items stored, or storage in the yard.

Renters insurance

• It insures your belongings and your liability; the building's insurance does not cover your things. It normally does not cover floods. Renters can buy a contents policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP, FloodSmart.gov). If you live on the ground floor or in a flood-prone area, consider it.
• Ask whether it covers additional living expenses (hotel) if the apartment becomes uninhabitable.
• Make a video inventory of your belongings and store it in the cloud (see chapter 2).