Bridgestream Property Management takes protecting and safeguarding their clients seriously—both the residents who call these properties home and the property owners who have invested their hard-earned money in Dayton real estate. That’s why they asked me, Ryan Ingram of Ingram Insurance Group (www.insuredbyingram.com), to share my perspective on one of the most overlooked but essential aspects of responsible housing: renters insurance and landlord insurance.
As someone who has worked with families, property investors, and business owners across Ohio, I’ve seen firsthand how the right insurance can prevent financial devastation and bring peace of mind. Unfortunately, I’ve also seen the opposite: situations where someone thought they were covered, only to find out—too late—that they weren’t.
This article will walk through why renters insurance and landlord insurance are crucial, how they differ, the unique challenges we see in Dayton and across Ohio, and what steps you can take today to ensure you’re properly protected.
Understanding the Insurance Landscape in Ohio
Why Insurance Education Matters in Dayton
Ohio’s insurance market is competitive and diverse. Because of this, renters and landlords have access to affordable, flexible coverage options—but many simply don’t take advantage of them.
Renters insurance in Ohio: The average renters policy costs between $12 and $20 per month. Yet, surveys show that less than 40% of renters actually carry coverage. That leaves a huge portion of Dayton’s renters financially vulnerable.
Landlord insurance in Ohio: Property investors face unique risks, from tenant-caused damage to liability claims. A standard homeowners policy does not cover rental activities.
Dayton, specifically, is a city with a growing rental population and a strong community of property investors. Both groups need clear, local guidance.
Why Renters Insurance Matters
What Renters Insurance Covers
Personal Property – Clothes, electronics, furniture, and valuables.
Liability Protection – Coverage for injuries that occur in the rental.
Loss of Use – Pays for hotels or temporary housing if your apartment is uninhabitable.
The True Cost of Not Having It
Imagine a Dayton renter with $25,000 worth of personal belongings. A kitchen fire spreads smoke through the unit, ruining clothes, electronics, and furniture. Without renters insurance, that person must replace everything out-of-pocket. With a $15/month policy, they’d be reimbursed for most of the loss. What’s even more painful is the cost you will incur in organizing alternate living arrangements while your residence is being repaired. Renters insurance includes loss of use, which will cover this while in addition to your property.
Affordability in Ohio
One of the biggest misconceptions is cost. In Ohio, renters insurance is among the most affordable in the country, often cheaper than a couple of takeout meals…maybe even just one streaming subscription!
Why Landlord Insurance Is Essential
Core Protections of Landlord Insurance
Dwelling Coverage – Protects the structure itself from damage.
Liability Protection – Covers lawsuits and medical bills if someone is injured on the property.
Loss of Rental Income – Reimburses landlords when properties are uninhabitable.
Optional Add-Ons – Vandalism, theft, appliances, and more.
The Investor’s Perspective in Dayton
Dayton has become a hotspot for real estate investors thanks to affordable property prices and strong rental demand. Sometimes, homeowners because accidental landlords, and make their primary residence a rental when they move out. But investors who fail to switch from a homeowners policy to landlord insurance could see years of profits wiped out in one claim.
Example: A storm damages a rental in Centerville, Ohio. The owner has a homeowners policy instead of landlord insurance. The claim is denied. With the proper coverage, not only would the repairs be covered, but lost rent would be reimbursed.
The Balance: How Renters and Landlord Insurance Work Together
Why Both Sides Need Protection
Landlords benefit when tenants have renters insurance, as it reduces disputes and shifts certain losses away from the owner.
Renters benefit when landlords are properly insured, ensuring safe, well-maintained properties.
Property managers like Bridgestream Property Management benefit when both parties are protected, leading to smoother operations and stronger relationships.
This dual approach strengthens trust and creates more stability in Dayton’s housing market.
Common Insurance Misconceptions in Dayton
Renters’ Misunderstandings
“My landlord’s insurance will cover me.” → False. Landlord insurance covers the building, not belongings.
“It’s too expensive.” → False. Most policies are $15/month or less.
“I don’t own much.” → False. Even modest possessions can total thousands. Not to mention moving costs and the cost of living elsewhere as repairs are made to your living area.
Landlords’ Misunderstandings
“My homeowners policy is enough.” → False. Homeowners coverage is void if tenants occupy the property.
“I only need coverage if I own multiple units.” → False. Even one rental property exposes you to risk.
Dayton-Specific Considerations
Older Housing Stock
Many Dayton neighborhoods—Five Oaks, Grafton Hill, Westwood—have older properties with higher risks for plumbing or electrical issues. These often create for really large insurance premiums with big box carriers as they are rating for replacement cost on plaster, crown molding, and other original ornate features. This can be mitigated by working with an independent insurance agent that specializes in writing insurance for rental properties.
Weather Exposure
Ohio experiences severe storms and even tornado threats. These events highlight the importance of strong coverage. In 2023 and 2024, Ohio experienced an extreme uptick in catastrophic storms resulting in an overall increase in premiums across the board. Usually, Ohio is a very moderate climate with few weather events. Over the next few years, we hope to see premiums stabilize as insurance companies recover from their losses.
Out-of-State Investors
More non-local investors are entering Dayton’s market. They often underestimate how different Ohio’s insurance requirements are compared to their home state. Many local insurance companies do not extend coverage on rental properties to out of state investors. This
At Ingram Insurance Group, we tailor solutions to fit these specific local conditions.
How to Get Started with Coverage
Step 1: Assess Your Needs
Are you a renter, landlord, or property manager? Each requires a different approach.
Step 2: Compare Options
We review policies from multiple top-rated carriers in Ohio.
Step 3: Understand Your Policy
We break down coverage so you know exactly what’s included—and what isn’t.
Step 4: Adjust as Life Changes
Insurance isn’t “set and forget.” We update your coverage as your circumstances evolve.
The Bigger Picture: Building Stronger Communities
Insurance isn’t just about protecting money. It’s about creating stability. When Dayton residents and property owners are properly covered, neighborhoods thrive an.
Renters with coverage feel secure.
Landlords with coverage safeguard their investments.
Property managers reduce risk and strengthen relationships.
Everyone benefits.
Final Thoughts
Renters insurance and landlord insurance aren’t just boxes to check—they are essential to protecting Dayton’s future.
As Dayton continues its revitalization, from infrastructure improvements to the growth of historic neighborhoods, ensuring proper coverage will play a role in long-term stability.
At Ingram Insurance Group, we’re here to help you protect what matters most. Whether you’re a renter needing affordable coverage, a landlord managing multiple properties, or a property manager seeking to streamline risk, we’ve got you covered.
👉 Visit us at www.insuredbyingram.com or call (937) 741-5100 today.
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