Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

Do I have to file a claim with my renters insurance company if my apartment was flooded by an upstairs neighbor?

My neighbor's washer flooded my apartment while I was out of town. It was a slow leak from the ceiling for several days, and it damaged my apartment unit and some of my belongings. What should I do?

Aug 13, 2024 Naperville, IL

Answer
Author profile picture
The Zebra
The nation's leading independent insurance comparison site

The Zebra is an independent insurance advisor and quote comparison site with headquarters in Austin, Texas. Utilizing its real-time quote comparison …

For the purpose of getting your belongings replaced as quickly as possible, I would definitely recommend contacting your renters insurance provider immediately. While your neighbor will likely be considered liable for the water leak, your insurance company should be able to act quickly to replace your items and even provide a temporary place to stay while your apartment is being repaired. Your insurance company will likely subrogate with your neighbor's company for your personal items, but that should have no affect on your ability to receive compensation for your loss.

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Pin
Shield checkmark No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

How long do I have in Illinois to add a new vehicle to my current insurance policy?

Typically, you have up to 14 days to add a new vehicle to your policy. Every company is different so always check with your specific insurance company for their guidelines. However, if you do not add the car to your current insurance and happen to get into an accident before your new policy starts,…
Nov 30, 2021 Peoria, IL

Can I sue if a ceiling collapsed on me after repairs?

First off, I'm sorry to hear that happened and I hope your brother is okay.In that situation, you would want to seek legal advice given there are several variables at play. The fault might be shared by both the landlord and the repair company but an insurance adjuster would be the one to determine …
Mar 24, 2025 Richmond, VA

If I still live at home with my parents, do I need renters insurance?

Technically your personal items and liability would be covered under your parents' homeowners insurance policy while you live under their roof. However, if you had to file a claim you would be doing so under their policy. This could have negative consequences for your parents since almost any claim…
Aug 13, 2024 Knoxville, TN

Does insurance cover injuries that happen at your house?

That’s not a dumb question at all; this is exactly the kind of situation homeowners' insurance is meant to help with, with Lemonade and other insurance companies.With any homeowners policy, there’s usually a section called personal liability coverage. That part of the policy can help if someone get…
Mar 31, 2026 Chicago, IL