PreviousView allNext
renting a flat
Is Contents Insurance Worth It for Renters?
03 December 2024

Rent increases, flat-hunting, moving. Renting is already stressful enough without worrying about what would happen if disaster strikes. A break-in, fire, or burst pipe can cost you thousands—but contents insurance makes sure you’re never left out of pocket. And with Quashed, finding affordable cover has never been easier. Let’s break it down and see why contents insurance is essential for Kiwi renters.

Why renters need contents insurance

You might think contents insurance is just for homeowners, but that’s a myth. Your landlord’s insurance only covers the building, not your personal stuff. Whether you’re sharing a flat in Wellington or renting a cozy one-bedroom in Auckland, your belongings are your responsibility.

Think about it: the value of your stuff adds up faster than you’d expect. TVs, laptops, furniture, clothes, kitchen gadgets—if something goes wrong, could you afford to replace them all? Contents insurance gives you peace of mind, protecting everything from theft to accidental damage.

If you are curious about the affordability of contents insurance, read our blog.

Embedded asset

What are renters really risking?

Here are just a few scenarios where renters benefit from contents insurance:

  • Theft: Flats and apartments, especially those with less-than-stellar security, can be easy targets for burglars. Contents insurance helps you recover your stolen items without the financial stress.

  • Accidental damage: Knocked coffee onto your laptop? Dropped your phone on hard tiles? We’ve all been there. With the right cover, those accidents don’t have to ruin your finances.

  • Natural disasters: New Zealand’s earthquakes, storms, and floods don’t spare renters. Your landlord might fix the building, but your personal items are still at risk.

  • Temporary accommodation: If your flat becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event, some contents insurance policies may cover the cost of temporary accommodation.

Want to explore the broader benefits and details? Check out our complete guide to contents insurance.

Embedded asset

What does contents insurance cover?

Most policies for renters protect:

  • Electronics: Laptops, phones, TVs, and gaming consoles.

  • Furniture & clothing: From your bed to your wardrobe essentials.

  • Valuables: Jewellery and personal items.

  • Theft, fire, and water damage: Core risks like break-ins, burst pipes, and house fires.

  • Liability coverage: Protects you if you accidentally damage someone else’s property.

Check your policy to see what’s included and what might require an add-on. Some policies don’t cover accidental damage unless you pay for extra cover.

Think you’ve got your insurance sorted? You might be making costly mistakes without even knowing it. Check out our blog Ten Insurance Mistakes That Cost You Money.

Embedded asset

Compare contents insurance in real-time

Finding the right renters insurance is easier when you can see all the important details in one place. Quashed gives you real-time quotes, the ability to customise your coverage, and a clear, side-by-side view of policies so you can make the best decision for your needs.

Here’s a sample of what you’ll get with Quashed:

Feature

What you’ll see

Real-time quotes

Up-to-date premiums from NZ insurers

Personalised options

Adjust your sum insured (e.g., $25,000) and excess (e.g., $500 or $1,000) in real time to see how it impacts your premium.

Policy comparison at a glance

- Coverage amounts: Theft, fire, water damage, and liability protection (e.g., up to $2 million).

- Add-ons: Accidental damage, temporary accommodation (e.g., up to $30,000), and cover for high-value items like jewellery.

- Exclusions: What’s not covered (e.g., specific limits for certain items like bikes or laptops).

- Transparency: All policy terms in one easy-to-read format, so there are no surprises.

Curious to see how Quashed steals the spotlight? Check out our blog MoneyHub insurance vs Quashed insurance.

Ready to find the perfect policy? Get your quotes now and protect what matters most.

Embedded asset

How much does renters insurance cost?

The good news? Contents insurance for renters in NZ is affordable. On average, it costs $70 per month or about $2.30 a day, depending on the level of cover, where you live, and the value of your belongings. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind, especially when the average renter in New Zealand insures possessions worth $46,000.

Want to see how the cost of contents insurance compares across New Zealand? Check out our blog.

Embedded asset

She’ll be right — if you’re covered!

Renting comes with its own challenges, but protecting your belongings doesn’t have to be one of them. Contents insurance gives you the peace of mind that, no matter what life throws your way—be it a break-in, an accident, or a natural disaster—you won’t have to foot the bill alone. With affordable options and the ability to customise your coverage, it’s a small cost for a big safety net.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—get your quotes now and protect what matters most.

FAQs

Is contents insurance really worth it for renters?

Yes. For a small cost, you can protect your belongings from theft, fire, and other risks, saving you from massive out-of-pocket expenses. Explore our guide to finding the best deals on contents insurance in New Zealand.

Does my landlord’s insurance cover my belongings?

No, your landlord’s insurance only covers the building itself, not your personal items.

How much does renters insurance cost in New Zealand?

Typically $70 per month (about $2.30 per day), depending on your coverage level, location, and the value of your items.

What does contents insurance cover?

Items like electronics, furniture, clothes, and valuables are covered against risks like theft, fire, and accidental damage (with optional add-ons).

Can I tailor my policy to fit my budget?

Yes! Many insurers let you adjust cover levels, excess, and add-ons to suit your needs.

Why should I use Quashed to find contents insurance?

Quashed makes finding the right contents insurance simple and stress-free. We provide real-time quotes and side-by-side comparisons, so you can easily compare coverage options, premiums, and excess amounts all in one place. No more switching between multiple websites or feeling overwhelmed by too many choices.

What makes Quashed different from other comparison sites?

Quashed is designed to make insurance simple and user-friendly. Unlike other platforms, we offer real-time quotes and side-by-side comparisons, so you always have the most up-to-date options at your fingertips.

PreviousView allNext
We’re on a mission to quash
insurance confusion
We don't just squash 'em, we quash 'em, to put you in control.
Sign up