Homeowner's vs. Renter's Insurance for a Dog Bite
Most dog bite recoveries come from insurance, and both homeowner's and renter's policies can provide it. Understanding the difference helps identify where a recovery may come from.
Homeowner's insurance
A homeowner's policy typically includes liability coverage that can apply to a bite by the household's dog, whether it happened at home or elsewhere. Limits and any breed exclusions vary by policy, so the specifics matter.
Renter's insurance
A renter who has renter's insurance may have similar liability coverage for their dog, even though they do not own the home. And separately, a landlord's own policy may come into play if the landlord shared responsibility.
The bottom line
Both types of policy can pay a dog bite claim, and there may be more than one source of coverage. Identifying every applicable policy and its limits is an important early step, especially for serious injuries.
Frequently asked questions
The dog owner rents. Is there still coverage?
Possibly — a renter may have renter's insurance with liability coverage, and a landlord's policy may apply if the landlord shared responsibility. Identifying every source of coverage is part of the work.
Related
This is general information about Dog Bites injury claims, not legal advice. Every situation is different.
The law depends on your state
The steps above apply wherever you were hurt. Filing deadlines, fault rules, and limits on damages differ by state — pick yours for what applies to dog bites.
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