Rental Property Insurance for Wisconsin Landlords
If you own a home or condo that you rent out, your standard homeowners policy won’t cut it. Landlord insurance — also known as a dwelling fire policy — is built specifically for non-owner-occupied properties. We help landlords across Brookfield, Milwaukee, and surrounding communities in Wisconsin protect their investments with clear, reliable coverage.
Why You Need Landlord Insurance
Owning a rental property can be a great source of income, but it also comes with real risks. A kitchen fire, burst pipe, or injured tenant could leave you with thousands in unexpected costs. Landlord insurance in Wisconsin helps cover your building, your liability, and your lost rental income if something goes wrong.
Whether you rent out a duplex in West Allis, a single-family home in Brookfield, or a student rental in Milwaukee, we’ll help you get the protection you need.
What Rental Property Insurance Covers
Every policy is a little different, but landlord insurance typically includes:
Dwelling Coverage
Protects the structure of your rental property — walls, roof, floors, cabinets — from damage caused by fire, lightning, wind, hail, or vandalism.
Landlord Liability
If a tenant or guest is injured on your property and you’re found responsible, liability coverage can help with legal expenses and medical costs.
Loss of Rental Income
If your rental becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss (like a fire), this helps replace your lost rental income while repairs are made.
Optional Coverage Add-ons
Depending on the carrier, you may be able to add coverage for vandalism by tenants, burglary, or even ordinance and law upgrades. We’ll walk through your options.
How It’s Different from Homeowners Insurance
Many first-time landlords assume their standard home policy is enough — but once a tenant moves in and the property is no longer owner-occupied, you need dedicated rental property insurance.
- Homeowners insurance covers owner-occupied homes; landlord insurance is for investment properties
- Tenant belongings are not covered — renters need their own [Renters Insurance]
- Personal property coverage is usually limited to items the landlord provides, like appliances or lawn equipment
Local Risks Worth Considering
In Wisconsin, frozen pipes and roof leaks can cause major damage — especially if a tenant doesn’t notice the issue right away. From cold snaps in Waukesha County to summer storms in Milwaukee, our policies are built with local weather in mind.
Who This Coverage Is For
- Property owners with long-term tenants
- Landlords with one or multiple rental units
- Real estate investors across Milwaukee County
- Homeowners renting out a second property, inherited home, or seasonal house
If you don’t live in the home yourself, you likely need a landlord policy — even for a single rental.
Want Extra Protection?
If you own more than one rental or just want higher liability limits, consider adding [Personal Umbrella Insurance]. It’s a cost-effective way to add extra protection beyond your landlord policy limits — especially important if you have assets or rely on rental income.
Get a Quote
Let’s protect your rental property the right way. We’ll review your property, walk through your coverage options, and provide a quote tailored to your needs — no pressure, just real help. And when you get started, you’ll receive a $25 gas card just for giving us the opportunity to work with you.
Answers for Wisconsin Landlords
Do I need landlord insurance if I only rent out one house?
Yes — if you don’t live there, it’s not covered by your homeowners policy. A landlord policy helps cover damage, liability, and loss of rental income.
Can I require my tenants to carry renters insurance?
Yes, and it’s a great idea. It helps protect their belongings and adds another layer of liability coverage. You can point them to our [Renters Insurance] page for details.
Does landlord insurance cover tenant damage or eviction expenses?
Most standard policies don’t include tenant-caused damage or eviction costs. But some carriers offer endorsements or optional coverage. We’ll explain what’s available and what to expect.
How much does landlord insurance cost in Wisconsin?
It depends on the property type, location, tenant history, and more. On average, it’s more than homeowners insurance but not dramatically so. We’ll compare options and explain each quote clearly.
What if I’m renting out a portion of my home, like a basement apartment?
That’s a special case — sometimes your homeowners policy can be modified, and sometimes you need a landlord endorsement. Let us know your setup and we’ll guide you.