Owning rental property in Los Angeles can be rewarding — but earthquakes, wildfires, mudslides, and tenant mishaps are part of the deal. That’s where landlord insurance comes in. It’s designed to protect your property (and help manage financial risk) when the unexpected happens.
In Los Angeles,the average landlord insurance runs about $1,979 a year [1].
Here’s what to know about landlord insurance in Los Angeles, from what it covers to how to lower your premium.
Is landlord insurance required in Los Angeles?
No law in Los Angeles (or California as a whole) forces landlords to buy landlord insurance. But if you’ve got a mortgage, your lender may require it before you can rent out the property. Even without a lender, skipping coverage carries financial risk.
Here’s why:
- Standard homeowners insurance often won’t cover tenant-related property damage or liability.
- One kitchen fire, slip-and-fall lawsuit, or burst pipe could leave you with tens of thousands in out-of-pocket costs.
- Local risks like earthquakes, wildfires, and even theft could make rental properties in L.A. more expensive and riskier to insure.
What does landlord insurance in Los Angeles cover?
A standard landlord policy in Los Angeles is designed to protect both your property and your liability as a rental owner. Here’s what’s usually included:
- Dwelling coverage – Typically covers damage to the physical structure from things like fire, wind, or vandalism. If a wildfire scorches the roof of your rental in the Hollywood Hills, this is what helps pay for repairs.
- Other structures – Think detached garages, fences, or a backyard ADU in Highland Park. These might be covered too, depending on your insurance company and policy.
- Landlord liability protection – If a tenant or guest gets injured on your property — say someone trips on a broken stair at your Echo Park fourplex — this could cover legal and medical costs.
- Loss of rental income – If a covered event (like a burst pipe after some covered storms or kitchen fire) forces tenants to move out temporarily, this can help replace the lost rent while repairs are underway.
- Limited personal property – This only covers items you own that help maintain the rental, like appliances or lawn tools — not your tenant’s stuff.
What’s not usually covered?
Standard landlord policies don’t cover tenant belongings, routine wear and tear, or damage from earthquakes or floods. And in a place like L.A., those are two of the biggest natural disasters your real estate could face. Ask your insurer about add-on coverage for both of these limits.
Read more: How much landlord insurance do I need?
How much is landlord insurance in Los Angeles?
On average, landlord insurance in Los Angeles, CA costs about $1,979 per year, or roughly 25% more than a standard homeowners policy on the same property. That bump in price reflects the extra risk landlords take on — more people in and out, more wear and tear, and more chances of something going sideways.
To put that in perspective, the average landlord policy in California costs closer to $1,756 a year. But Los Angeles has higher premiums thanks to its size, housing density, and exposure to earthquakes, wildfires, and theft.
Read more: How much landlord insurance costs.
How to lower your Los Angeles landlord insurance premium
There are ways to keep L.A. landlord insurance costs in check while maintaining important protections. Here’s how:
- Bundle policies. Some insurers may offer discounts for bundling home and auto insurance.
- Raise your deductible (within reason). A higher deductible often lowers the premium, but choose an amount you can comfortably afford.
- Add safety features. Security upgrades such as cameras or enhanced locks may be considered by insurers when assessing risk.
- Stay ahead of maintenance. Updating your roof, plumbing, or electrical systems can help reduce risk and prevent future issues.
- Compare quotes yearly. Los Angeles insurers price risk differently, so comparing a few landlord insurance quotes may help you understand available pricing options — even if nothing about your property has changed. Consult with a licensed insurance producer to determine your eligibility and explore available options.
Still have questions?
Here are some of the most common questions Los Angeles landlords ask about insurance.
How much renters insurance should a landlord require in Los Angeles?
Many renters insurance policies start with $100,000 in liability coverage, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). This is the minimum many Los Angeles landlords require tenants to carry for their homes. Requiring renters insurance helps protect both you and your tenants, since their belongings aren’t covered under your landlord policy.
What will you most likely need to insure as a Los Angeles landlord?
At minimum, you’ll need coverage for:
- The dwelling itself (walls, roof, foundation, and fixtures)
- Any detached structures, like garages or fences
- Appliances or furnishings you provide
- Your liability if there is a tenant or guest injury on the property
- Lost rental income if the unit becomes unlivable after a covered event
Why is landlord insurance more expensive?
Landlord policies are typically 25% pricier than homeowners insurance because rental properties pose higher risks. Tenants may not treat the space with the same care as an owner, claims can involve more liability, and L.A. carries added risk from wildfires, earthquakes, and theft.
How can I save money on my landlord insurance in Los Angeles?
Beyond bundling and safety upgrades, Los Angeles landlords can sometimes save by joining a landlord association. Some local landlord or housing groups negotiate group insurance rates or offer resources that help you find better deals. Also, don’t forget to compare quotes regularly since rates can change year to year.
How to estimate insurance on a Los Angeles rental property?
Start by looking at the average cost (about $1,979 annually). Then, factor in your property’s specifics. A newer duplex in Culver City might run less, while an older craftsman near Griffith Park could be more. The best way to nail down your rate for landlord insurance in Los Angeles, CA, is to grab quotes from at least three carriers and compare side by side.
Sources
- Figure obtained from calculation of the average home insurance policy in Los Angeles and the average premium increase for landlord insurance is roughly when compared to a standard home insurance policy on the same property. 25% more than standard home insurance on the same property.
Figures reflect averages from publicly available sources as of December 2025.
This article is for informational purposes only and was compiled from sources not affiliated with Hippo. While we believe this information to be reliable, we do not guarantee its accuracy or completeness. For any insurance-related decision, please consult your licensed insurance producer.
