Landlord Insurance: Protect Your Rental Property the Smart Way

Landlord Insurance in Delaware, Maryland & Pennsylvania

If you own a rental property in Delaware, you know the risks: tenant damage, storms, legal liability, and lost rent. That’s why landlord insurance is essential — and why local experience matters.

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At Downes Insurance, we specialize in helping Delaware landlords find affordable, customized landlord insurance that truly protects your investment. Whether you rent out a single-family home in Milford, an apartment in Dover, or a beach cottage in Lewes, we’ll find coverage that fits your property and budget.

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What Is Landlord Insurance?

Landlord insurance (also known as “rental property insurance”) is designed for properties you rent out to others. It covers the unique risks you face as a property owner — from structural damage to tenant-related liability.

It’s different from homeowners insurance, which doesn’t typically cover rental situations.

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What Does Delaware Landlord Insurance Cover?

1. Dwelling Coverage: Protects the structure of your rental home from fire, wind, hail, lightning, and more.

2. Other Structures: Includes coverage for detached garages, sheds, fences, and other buildings on the property.

3. Landlord Liability Protection: If someone is injured on your property and you're found responsible, this helps pay legal fees, medical costs, and damages.

4. Loss of Rental Income: If your property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event (like fire or a storm), this reimburses your lost rent while repairs are made.

5. Optional Add-Ons

• Vandalism & Theft (of landlord property)

• Water/Sewer Backup

• Ordinance or Law Coverage

• Personal Injury (slander, wrongful eviction, etc.)

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We’ll help you choose what you need — and leave out what you don’t.

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Why Choose Downes Insurance?

We’re not a call center. We’re your local, independent insurance agent, based in Milford and proudly serving all of Delaware.

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Here's why Delaware landlords trust Downes Insurance:

• We shop multiple top-rated insurance carriers to find you the best price.

• We understand local laws, risks, and rental trends.

• We make sure your coverage fits your situation — no one-size-fits-all plans.

• We’re just a phone call away when you need us — no 1-800 runaround.

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Who Needs Landlord Insurance?

If you rent out a property you don’t live in, you need landlord insurance.

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This includes:

• Single-family rental homes

• Duplexes and triplexes

• Condos rented to tenants

• Beach rentals or seasonal properties

• Small multi-unit buildings

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If you live in part of the property and rent out a room or basement, let us know — you may need a different kind of policy.

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Real-World Example (Delaware Edition)

A landlord in Rehoboth Beach had a tenant accidentally leave the stove on, starting a kitchen fire that damaged half the house. Not only did repairs take 3 months, but the landlord lost $4,500 in rent.

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Because they had landlord insurance through Downes Insurance, they didn’t pay a dime out of pocket — the repairs and lost rent were fully covered.

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FAQs About Delaware Landlord Insurance

Q: Is landlord insurance required in Delaware?
A: It’s not legally required, but if you have a mortgage on the property, your lender likely requires it. Regardless, it’s strongly recommended for any rental.

Q: Does landlord insurance cover my tenant’s belongings?
A: No — tenants should get renters insurance to protect their personal property.

Q: Can I get a discount if I insure multiple rental properties?
A: Yes! Many carriers offer discounts for landlords with more than one property. Ask us about multi-policy options.

Q: Will landlord insurance cover an Airbnb or short-term rental?
A: Possibly. Some insurers offer endorsements for short-term rentals — others require separate policies. We’ll help you navigate it.

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Get a Free Landlord Insurance Quote in Delaware

Your rental property is a big investment. Let us help you protect it the right way.

Visit us at 1047 North Walnut St, Milford, DE 19963
Call Today: 302-422-8863