How to Cancel Renters Insurance

To cancel renters insurance, you’ll need to contact your provider, submit a formal cancellation request, and confirm the effective date. It’s a straightforward process, but if you don’t handle it properly, you could risk coverage gaps, lose out on refunds, or even violate your lease.

Maybe you’ve moved, joined a partner’s policy, or just want to cut costs. Whatever the reason, this guide walks you through how to cancel your renters insurance the right way, including:

• Step-by-step instructions (with examples)
• What to check in your lease and policy
• When cancellation makes sense and when it doesn’t
• Refund rules, legal implications, and smarter alternatives

Let’s make sure your renters insurance exit is clean, not costly.

Why Renters Cancel Insurance (Triggers & Use Cases)

There are several valid reasons to cancel a renters insurance policy and a few scenarios where it’s better to pause. Common triggers include:

• You’ve moved out permanently or are relocating internationally
• You’re switching to a homeowners or condo policy after buying property
• You’re moving in with a partner or roommate who has an existing policy you’ll join
• You’re looking to cut monthly expenses and believe insurance is optional

That said, cancelling renters insurance isn’t always a good idea, especially if you’re still under lease. Some landlords require active coverage throughout your tenancy, and dropping it could violate your lease agreement.

Also, avoid cancelling during a home purchase transition, as your belongings may still need temporary coverage between locations.

If you cancel without a replacement plan, you risk:

• Gaps in protection if something happens during the transition
• Losing out on a multi-year discount or loyalty benefits with your insurer
• Delays or issues qualifying for insurance in the future

Bottom line: cancel for the right reasons—and always on your own terms.

Understand Your Policy First: Terms, Fees & Timing

Before you cancel renters insurance, take a few minutes to read the fine print. Every policy has specific terms around how and when you can cancel, and skipping this step could cost you.

Review the Cancellation Clause

Most policies require:

• Advance notice (usually 30 days)
• Written confirmation via email, letter, or provider portal
• Possible cancellation fees if you’re mid-policy or in a lock-in period

Look for Refund Terms

If you’ve prepaid your premium, ask if you're eligible for a prorated refund. Many insurers will reimburse unused coverage, but only if you cancel officially and meet their notice window.

Watch for Auto-Renewals

Some renters insurance policies renew automatically. Cancelling late might mean you’re on the hook for another month or longer.

Check Lease Requirements

Even if you're ready to cancel, your lease may require proof of active renters insurance through your entire tenancy. Cancelling early without replacing coverage could violate your lease and lead to fees or penalties.

Tip: If you're unsure about any terms, call your insurance provider or check your digital policy documents for cancellation-specific language. Knowing the rules up front helps you avoid unpleasant surprises.

How to Cancel Renter’s Insurance - Step-by-Step Guide

Below is a clear path for canceling your renters insurance while minimizing risk. Steps may vary slightly by provider, so always check your policy and carrier options.

1. Gather Your Policy Information

Before you call or submit anything, have your documentation ready:

• Your policy number, effective dates, and coverage limits
• Your personal details (name, address, contact)
• Any account or login credentials for your insurer’s portal

Knowing these ahead of time speeds up the process and ensures you don’t hit delays.

2. Contact the Insurance Provider

Reach out using the channel your insurer supports, such as:

• Customer service phone line
• Online portal or mobile app
• Email or agent contact

Tell them you want to cancel your policy. In many cases, they’ll try to offer alternatives like adjusting coverage or reducing the premium. Be firm and clear if you intend to cancel.

3. Submit Written or Digital Cancellation Request

Even if you started by phone, many insurers require a written confirmation (or digital form) so there's a record. Include:

• Your name, policy number, and address
• Effective date for cancellation
• Reason (optional)
• Your signature (if mailed)

Some insurers allow cancellation via their app or email. The ResidentShield Cancellation Form is one example.

4. Specify Effective Date & Overlap

Choose a cancellation date that avoids leaving you uninsured. If you’re starting a new policy, have it begin the same day your current one ends. If you’re moving out, set the cancellation after your move is complete so your belongings remain protected through the transition.

5. Confirm Cancellation & Stop Auto‑Payments

Once the insurer processes your request, ask for confirmation (email or letter) so you have proof. Also:

• Disable or cancel any auto-payments tied to that policy
• Verify no further premiums are withdrawn from your bank or card

6. Request Refund of Unused Premium

If you prepaid your policy (e.g., for the year), you’re often entitled to a prorated refund for the unused portion. Ask what calculation method they use and when you’ll receive your refund.

What to Consider Before You Cancel Your Renters Insurance

Before you hit “cancel,” take a moment to assess the potential consequences, especially if you’re mid-lease or transitioning to a new apartment.

Avoid Gaps in Coverage

If you’re switching providers or moving to a new place, align your new policy start date with your cancellation date. Even a one-day gap can leave your belongings vulnerable,and some landlords may penalize you for a lapse in coverage.

Lease Requirements

Many leases require proof of active renters insurance for the entire term. Canceling too early could violate your lease agreement, result in fees, or lead to the landlord force-placing a more expensive policy on your behalf.

Future Costs & Insurance Eligibility

Canceling frequently or early can sometimes affect your insurance history, making it harder to get preferred rates or discounts later. Providers may flag gaps in coverage during future applications.

Consider Alternatives

If your goal is to save money and not drop insurance entirely, you might:

• Raise your deductible to lower premiums
• Reduce your coverage amount if you own fewer valuables
• Switch providers for better pricing or customer service

Sometimes a quick policy adjustment is smarter than starting over.

Refunds, Fees & Unused Premiums

When you cancel renters insurance before the term ends, most providers will prorate your refund based on the unused portion of your policy. For example, if you cancel a 12-month policy after four months, you may be refunded for the remaining eight, minus any fees.

Common Refund Scenarios

• Prorated Refunds: You typically get back the unused premium, calculated from your cancellation date onward.
• Administrative Fees: Some insurers deduct a cancellation or processing fee (e.g., $25–$50) from your refund.
• No Refunds: If you cancel too close to the policy’s end or have an outstanding balance, you might not receive any money back.

Sample Refund Calculation

Let’s say you paid $180 for a one-year policy and canceled after 3 months:

• $180 ÷ 12 = $15/month
• 9 months unused = $135 refund
• Minus $25 fee = $110 refund

Always request a final refund breakdown from your insurer, and confirm how and when the refund will be issued (credit card, check, bank deposit).

What Happens After You Cancel a Renters Insurance Policy?

Once you cancel renters insurance, there are a few loose ends to tie up, and some effects you might not expect.

Your Landlord May Be Notified

If your policy was linked to your lease, your insurance provider might automatically notify your landlord of the cancellation. If your lease requires continuous coverage, this could trigger penalties or force-placed insurance.

Auto-Pay Stops (But Double-Check)

Most insurers will cancel your auto-pay setup once your policy ends, but it’s smart to log in and verify. You don’t want stray charges showing up later.

No Credit Score Impact (Usually)

Canceling a renters insurance policy typically doesn’t affect your credit—unless you miss a final payment or leave a balance unpaid.

Monitor the Aftermath

After cancellation, you should:

• Confirm your policy is marked as canceled
• Watch for your refund (if applicable)
• Save a copy of your cancellation confirmation

That way, if any issues come up, like a landlord asking for proof, you’ve got the documentation ready.

Alternatives to Cancelling Your Renters Insurance

Not ready to fully cancel your renters insurance? You may have other options that maintain coverage while reducing costs or adjusting to life changes.

• Lower Your Premium - Ask your insurer about raising your deductible or reducing personal property limits. This keeps coverage active but can cut your monthly rate significantly.
• Pause or Suspend the Policy- Some providers may let you pause your coverage if you're in between apartments or subletting temporarily. This isn’t common, but worth asking about, especially for short gaps.
• Merge with a Partner’s or Roommate’s Policy- If you’re moving in with someone, consider joining their renters insurance. You’ll need to be added as a named insured, and both parties should understand how claims will be handled.
• Switch Providers Instead - Shopping for a better rate might be smarter than canceling entirely. Some insurers offer bundling discounts or loyalty incentives that make switching more affordable than you’d expect.

Ready to Cancel? Do It the Smart Way

Canceling renters insurance isn’t hard. You just want to make sure you do it right. Always review your policy terms, notify your insurer properly, and check that your lease doesn’t require coverage. Refunds are often available, but only if you follow the process correctly.

Before canceling entirely, consider low-cost adjustments or switching providers. Maintaining some coverage can protect your stuff, your finances—and your lease.

Use Apartment List’s personalized quiz to find rentals that match your insurance preferences. Whether you’re looking for places with flexible terms or insurance built-in, we’ll help you filter smarter.

Frequently Asked Questions About Canceling Renters Insurance

Can I cancel anytime mid-policy?

Yes, most renters insurance policies allow cancellation at any time. However, you’ll need to follow proper steps, typically submitting written notice and selecting a cancellation date.

Do I pay a penalty for canceling renters insurance?

Some insurers charge a small administrative or cancellation fee (usually $25 or less), but many waive this. Always check your policy’s cancellation clause.

Will I lose my refund if I cancel too late?

If you’re near the end of your term, the refund amount may be small or zero, depending on how much unused premium is left and whether fees apply.

What happens if I cancel but my lease requires coverage?

You could be in violation of your lease, which may lead to fees, warnings, or your landlord enrolling you in a more expensive policy on your behalf.

Can I add myself to someone else’s policy instead?

Yes, as long as their insurer allows it. You’ll need to be listed as a named insured or additional occupant, and both parties should understand what’s covered.

Will future insurers charge more after a lapse?

It depends. While renters insurance lapses don’t always raise rates, gaps in coverage may affect eligibility or discounts with some insurers down the line. It's best to avoid a lapse if possible.