Landlord Insurance

Keep Your Rental Safe and Profitable

Being a landlord can be rewarding — steady income, growing property value, peace of mind.

But all it takes is one storm, broken pipe, or tenant accident to turn that peace into stress. That’s where The Insurance Specialists Inc. comes in.

We help Des Moines and Central Iowa landlords protect their rental properties with reliable, affordable landlord insurance tailored to every kind of property owner — from single-family homes to multi-unit rentals.

Our coverage can include:

  • 1

    Rental income protection during repair periods

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    Liability protection for tenant or visitor injuries

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    Repairs or rebuilds from storm or tenant damage

We’re a local agency, which means we compare trusted insurers to find the best fit for you.

Let’s protect your investment — Get your landlord quote today.

Customized Insurance Solutions for Landlords

Every rental property is different — from single-family homes in Des Moines to multi-unit buildings across Central Iowa.

That’s why our landlord insurance plans are designed around your specific needs, giving you the right protection without paying for coverage you don’t need.

When you work with The Insurance Specialists Inc., you get flexible options from trusted Iowa carriers, all backed by our local team’s expertise. Here’s what your policy can include:

Core Coverages

  • Property Damage: Pays for repairs or rebuilds if your rental is damaged by fire, storms, vandalism, or other covered events.

  • Liability Protection: Helps pay for legal fees or medical expenses if someone gets hurt while on your rental property.

  • Lost Rental Income: Reimburses rent you lose when a covered loss makes your property unlivable.

  • Tenant Damage: Helps with repairs when tenants cause more than normal wear and tear.

Optional Add-Ons

  • Rent Guarantee Insurance: Protects your income if a tenant stops paying rent.

  • Landlord Contents Coverage: Covers appliances, furnishings, or other items you provide in your rental units.

No two properties — or landlords — are alike. We’ll help you compare coverage options and tailor a plan that fits your property and budget.

Why Choose The Insurance Specialists, Inc.

Choosing the right insurance provider is essential when it comes to protecting your rental properties. Here’s why landlords trust us:

Landlord Insurance FAQs

Understanding landlord insurance can feel complicated, so we’ve answered some common questions to help Iowa property owners protect their rentals with confidence.

Most landlord insurance policies include coverage for property damage, liability, and lost rental income.

That means you’re protected if a covered event — like a fire, storm, or accident — damages your property or causes income loss.

👉 Tip: Some policies may also include coverage for tenant-caused damage or loss of use — ask your agent for details.

It’s not legally required in Iowa, but most lenders and property managers recommend it.

Homeowner’s policies typically don’t cover rental use, so landlord insurance is essential if you lease out your property — even to friends or family.

Premiums depend on your property’s value, age, location, and coverage options.

Every property is different, but we’ll help you compare rates and coverage options from multiple Iowa insurers to find the best fit for your budget.

💬 Get a custom quote in minutes — we’ll do the comparison for you.

Yes. Because it’s a business expense, most landlords can deduct their landlord insurance premiums.

⚠️ This isn’t tax advice — always confirm with a qualified tax professional.

Accidental tenant damage — such as broken fixtures or minor flooding — may be covered.

However, intentional or malicious damage usually isn’t. It’s best to review your lease and policy together for clarity.

Yes. When a covered loss forces your tenants to move out temporarily, landlord insurance can step in to replace the rental income you would have earned while the property is being repaired.

This doesn’t include tenant non-payment — some policies may offer optional coverage for that.

Landlord insurance protects rental income and tenant-related liability, while homeowner’s insurance focuses on personal residence risks.

If you rent out your property, homeowner’s coverage won’t apply once tenants move in.

Yes. Some insurers offer multi-property landlord policies, allowing you to manage more than one rental under a single plan.

This can simplify renewals and help you stay organized.

Standard policies usually don’t cover flood or sewer backup damage. You may need to add separate flood protection for full coverage.

Contact your agent promptly, record the damage with photos, and perform temporary repairs only if it’s safe to do so.

Your agent can guide you through the claim process and help ensure a smooth experience.

📞 Need help now? Call us at (515) 280-1207.

Your deductible is the amount you pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in.

A higher deductible lowers your premium, while a lower deductible means less risk at claim time.

We’ll help you find a balance that fits your budget and comfort level.

Most landlord policies cover short-term vacancies (typically 30–60 days), but long-term empty periods can limit or cancel certain protections.

If your property will be vacant longer, let your agent know — we can explore vacancy endorsements or special policies that keep your investment protected.

Standard landlord insurance is designed for long-term tenants, not short-term or vacation rentals.

If you rent through Airbnb or similar platforms, you may need short-term rental or commercial coverage.

We can review your setup and find coverage that fits how you rent.

Some insurance companies restrict coverage for specific dog breeds or exotic pets due to higher claim risks.

If your tenants have pets, we’ll help you review your carrier’s guidelines and ensure you’re not left with uncovered liability.

An umbrella policy extends your liability coverage past the limits of your standard landlord insurance, giving you broader protection.

It’s a smart move if you own multiple properties or have high net worth.

If you remodel, add square footage, or upgrade major systems, your property’s replacement cost can change.

Let your agent know before or after renovations so your coverage limits stay accurate — that way, your new investment is fully protected.

Most carriers need your property address, occupancy type, estimated rental income, and current insurance details.

Having photos or a recent inspection report can also speed up approval.

We’ll walk you through everything you need for a smooth start.

Yes, many landlord policies also protect detached buildings on your property—like garages, storage sheds, or fences—though each plan sets its own coverage limit.

If you’ve added new buildings, let your agent know to ensure they’re listed on your policy.

Coverage can often start the same day you apply, once payment and underwriting are complete.

For new purchases or refinances, policies can also begin on your closing date. We’ll coordinate timing so there’s no gap in protection.

Typical exclusions include flood damage, pest infestations, gradual wear and tear, and tenant non-payment.

Each carrier is a little different, so reviewing your exclusions carefully ensures there are no surprises later.

Our Other Home Insurance Services

Explore our range of comprehensive home insurance services designed to protect your property, whether you own or rent. Click on the links below to learn more about each service and find the coverage that fits your needs.

  • Homeowners Insurance: Ensure your home and personal belongings are protected from risks like fire, theft, and natural disasters.

  • Renters Insurance: Safeguard your personal belongings and gain liability protection, even if you don’t own your home.

  • Mobile Home Insurance: Get coverage for your mobile or manufactured home, including the structure and your belongings.

Looking for the Right Insurance Coverage?

Ensure your peace of mind with the right coverage. Get in touch with us, and we’ll help you explore insurance options that match your priorities and fit your budget.

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