# Tenant Without Insurance: What Does Home Insurance Cover in 2024?

*1 augusti 2026*

> Many tenants are uncertain whether home insurance is mandatory and what it actually covers. We explain the risks of being a tenant without insurance, which policies are necessary, and how to choose the right protection for your home.

## Tenant Without Insurance – What's the Risk?

Being a tenant without insurance can have serious financial consequences. If your furniture or personal belongings are stolen, damaged, or destroyed, you have no compensation unless you have home insurance. Additionally, you can be held personally liable for damage you cause to the apartment or that affects neighbors – something that can cost tens of thousands of kronor.

Many tenants believe the landlord or property owner is insured for everything, but that's not true. The landlord's insurance covers building damage and the property itself, not your personal belongings or your liability.

## Is Home Insurance Mandatory for Tenants?

Home insurance is **not legally mandatory** for tenants under Swedish law. There is no law that forces you to purchase insurance. However, some landlords or housing companies may require home insurance in the lease agreement – check your contract carefully.

Regardless of whether it's mandatory, home insurance for tenants is strongly recommended. The risk of financial loss without insurance is significant, and the premium is often low – typically between 50–150 kronor per month depending on the insurance company and coverage.

## What Does Home Insurance Cover for Tenants?

A standard home insurance policy for tenants typically covers:

**Furniture and personal belongings** – furniture, clothes, electronics, and other items you own are replaced if stolen, damaged by fire, water damage, or other insured events.

**Liability coverage** – if you unintentionally cause damage to the apartment or neighbors' property or person, liability coverage covers your legal damages claims. This might involve a water leak that damages the neighbor's apartment below, or a visitor injuring themselves at your home.

**Legal protection** – many policies include legal assistance if you become involved in a legal dispute.

**Home protection** – compensation if your home becomes uninhabitable due to fire or other damage.

What is **not** covered varies between insurance companies, but typically excludes:
- Damage to the apartment itself (walls, floors, windows) – that's the landlord's responsibility
- Valuables like jewelry or art above a certain value (without special insurance)
- Damage due to your own negligence or carelessness
- Natural disasters or earthquakes (in some policies)

## What Does Home Insurance Cost for Tenants?

The cost of home insurance for tenants varies depending on:

- **Apartment size** – larger apartment = higher premium
- **Insurance company** – different companies have different prices
- **Coverage level** – basic insurance is cheaper than extended insurance with higher limits
- **Deductible** – higher deductible gives lower premium
- **Discounts** – many companies offer discounts for long-term customers or if you insure multiple items with the same company

On average, home insurance for tenants costs between 50–200 kronor per month. It's worth comparing prices between different insurance companies – the difference can be significant.

## How to Choose the Right Home Insurance?

**Assess your needs** – how much are your furniture and belongings worth? Do you need extra protection for valuables?

**Compare insurance companies** – use comparison websites or contact companies directly. Look not just at price but also at what's covered.

**Read the terms carefully** – understand what's included and what exclusions apply. Many tenants are surprised by what isn't covered.

**Ask about discounts** – many insurance companies offer discounts for long-term customers, security systems, or if you're a member of tenant organizations.

**Update the value regularly** – if you buy new furniture or expensive items, check that your insurance sum still covers everything.

## Common Questions About Home Insurance for Tenants

### Do I need home insurance if my landlord doesn't require it?

No, it's not legally mandatory. But it's strongly recommended to protect your belongings and finances. Without insurance, a fire, theft, or damage can cost you tens of thousands of kronor.

### What if my landlord requires home insurance?

Check your lease. If it's a condition of the lease, you must purchase insurance. Many housing companies require this to reduce their own risk. You can choose which insurance company you want – the landlord cannot force you to choose a specific company.

### Does home insurance cover damage to the apartment itself?

No, home insurance covers your personal belongings and your liability, not damage to building or fixtures that belong to the property. That's covered by the landlord's building insurance.

### What happens if I cause damage to a neighbor's apartment?

Your home insurance's liability coverage covers this – up to a certain limit, usually 5–10 million kronor. It's important to report the damage to the insurance company as soon as possible.

### Can I get home insurance if I live illegally or without registration?

It's difficult. Most insurance companies require that you're registered at the address and have a valid lease. If you live illegally, you're advised to contact tenant organizations for legal advice.
