Can my Utah landlord make me buy renters insurance?

Yes, landlords in Utah can require renters insurance if it's stated in your lease agreement.

What happens if I don't provide proof of renters insurance as required?

You may receive a violation notice, face lease penalties, or risk eviction if you fail to provide required insurance proof.

Is renters insurance required by Utah law?

No, state law does not require it, but your landlord can require it as part of the lease.

Where can I get legal help about a rental insurance dispute?

You can contact your local Utah Justice Court, the Division of Consumer Protection, or Utah Legal Services.

What does renters insurance in Utah usually cover?

It typically covers your belongings, some liability, and expenses if you have to move out temporarily due to a covered event.

Utah Renters Insurance Rules for New Tenants Explained

Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Utah published: June 21, 2025

Moving into a new rental in Utah? Understanding Utah's rules about renters insurance will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and protect your property and rights as a tenant. Many renters wonder if they're required to buy a policy—and what landlords can legally ask for. Here, you'll find clear guidance on your responsibilities, important Utah laws, and helpful resources if you need more support.

Are Utah Landlords Allowed to Require Renters Insurance?

Utah law does not require renters to buy renters insurance. However, landlords are allowed to include a renters insurance requirement in a lease agreement. This means:

If your lease says you must have renters insurance, you are legally bound to get it.
If your lease is silent about insurance, you are not required under state law to buy it, though it may still be a good idea for protection.

Utah landlords often require proof of insurance at move-in, with liability coverage (usually $100,000 or more).

What Does Renters Insurance Cover?

Most renters insurance policies cover:

Your personal belongings (furniture, clothes, electronics) if stolen or damaged by events like fire or burst pipes
Liability if someone is injured in your unit
Additional living expenses if the unit becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss

But renters insurance does not cover the building itself (that’s the landlord’s responsibility).

Utah Lease Disclosures and Renters Insurance Clauses

Under the Utah Fit Premises Act¹, all lease agreements should state major financial requirements up front. If your lease requires renters insurance, this must be spelled out clearly.

You should be told: What coverage is required—just liability, or also personal property?
Is a specific policy type or provider mandated?
Will the landlord be listed on your policy as an “additional interest” (so they get notified if it lapses)?

What Forms or Documentation Are Required?

If your lease requires renters insurance, your landlord may ask for:

Proof of a current policy (a declarations page or letter from your insurer)
An ongoing commitment to keep the policy active during your tenancy

No special state-wide form is required. However, keep all paperwork and submit proof as soon as requested. Sample documentation might look like: "Renters Insurance Declarations Page" from your provider.

What Happens If You Don’t Provide Proof?

If renters insurance is required by the lease and you do not provide proof, your landlord may:

Send a written notice asking you to comply
Charge lease violation fees, if allowed by your rental agreement
Start the eviction process (if non-compliance continues)

Tip: Always speak to your landlord and get written agreements or notices about insurance requirements.

Your Rights and Utah Renter Protections

Utah tenants are protected by the Utah Fit Premises Act, enforced through local justice courts and the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Consumer Protection.²

Landlords cannot add new insurance requirements mid-lease without your consent.
If a required policy lapses, written notice is required before any action is taken.
You are always entitled to receive a copy of the lease clauses referring to insurance.

If There’s a Dispute Over Insurance Requirements

The main official body handling residential tenancy disputes in Utah is your local Utah Justice Court (for issues such as eviction over non-compliance). You can also seek advice from the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Consumer Protection or Utah Legal Services.

How to Prove You Have Renters Insurance as a Tenant

Ask your insurance company for a "Proof of Renters Insurance” letter or your latest declarations page.
Email or give a copy to your landlord before you move in.
If you switch or cancel policies, provide updated proof immediately.

This helps avoid fees and lease disputes.

Key Forms and Resources for Utah Renters

Utah Justice Court Complaint Form: If you’re being taken to court over a lease or insurance disagreement, see the Official Justice Court Complaint Forms—used to respond to eviction or contract issues. For example, if your landlord files for eviction due to lack of insurance, you’d use these to respond in court.
Division of Consumer Protection Complaint Form: If you believe your landlord is acting unlawfully (such as demanding insurance not in the lease), you can file a complaint with the Division of Consumer Protection. This form is used to open a government investigation into unfair practices.

FAQ: Utah Renters Insurance and Your Lease

Can my Utah landlord make me buy renters insurance?
Yes, if your lease agreement includes a clause requiring it. If not, you are not required by law to carry renters insurance.
Is renters insurance expensive in Utah?
Most policies in Utah are affordable, ranging from $10 to $25 per month, but actual costs depend on your coverage amount and provider.
What coverage should I choose if required?
Most leases require at least liability coverage ($100,000 recommended), but check your lease for specifics on required amounts or providers.
What happens if my policy lapses?
If your lease requires insurance, you must provide updated proof if asked. Failure to comply could result in warning notices, fees, or even eviction proceedings.
Where do I go if I have a legal dispute about this?
Utah Justice Courts usually handle landlord-tenant cases, including lease or insurance disputes. Free advice is also available from the Utah Department of Commerce Division of Consumer Protection and Utah Legal Services.

Key Takeaways for Utah Renters

Utah law allows landlords to require renters insurance only if it’s in your lease.
Always keep and provide proof of insurance if required.
If you have a dispute, contact your local Justice Court or Division of Consumer Protection for help.

It’s smart to carefully review your lease, ask questions about insurance clauses, and keep documentation handy. This helps avoid legal trouble and ensures you’re protected.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Utah Courts: Landlord & Tenant Information (including Justice Court info and tenant forms)
Utah Department of Commerce: Division of Consumer Protection (complaint forms, legal info, guidance)
Utah Legal Services (free or low-cost legal help for renters)
Utah Fit Premises Act (Full Text)