Top 50 Questions: Tenant Insurance & Liability in Prince Edward Island

Tenant Insurance & Liability Prince Edward Island published June 26, 2025 Flag of Prince Edward Island
Is tenant insurance required by law in Prince Edward Island?
No, tenant insurance is not legally required, but a landlord may ask for it in the lease.
Can my landlord make tenant insurance mandatory?
Yes, if your lease agreement specifies it, you must obtain and maintain insurance.
What does tenant insurance generally cover?
It usually covers your personal belongings and liability for accidental damage or injury.
Who is responsible for insuring the building in PEI?
The landlord must insure the building and their property; tenants insure their own belongings.
What happens if I don’t get tenant insurance?
You risk paying for damages or losses yourself, and may breach your lease if insurance is required.
Am I liable for damage to my rental unit?
You are liable if the damage is caused by you, your guests, or pets, even accidentally.
Does tenant insurance cover my roommate's belongings?
Not automatically; roommates may need their own policies unless both are included and listed.
What is liability coverage in tenant insurance?
It protects you if someone is injured or their property is damaged due to your actions in your unit.
Who pays if my belongings are damaged in a fire?
Your tenant insurance covers your items; the landlord's insurance does not cover your possessions.
Does tenant insurance cover floods or water damage?
Water coverage depends on your policy; not all include flood damage, so check your specific plan.
If someone's injured in my apartment, am I responsible?
Potentially. Liability coverage in tenant insurance protects you for such events.
Does tenant insurance cover theft?
Most policies cover theft of your personal belongings from your rental unit.
Can my landlord require proof of insurance?
Yes, your landlord can request proof if it's a lease condition.
How do I prove I have tenant insurance?
Provide your policy certificate or a letter from your insurer.
Can my landlord evict me for not having insurance?
If required by your lease, your landlord can apply for termination if you do not comply.
What if I can't afford tenant insurance?
Shop around for quotes; some policies are affordable, but if required in your lease, you must have it.
Does the landlord’s insurance cover my stuff?
No, the landlord’s policy only covers their building and property, not your belongings.
Is pet damage covered by tenant insurance?
Some policies cover accidental pet damage; check your plan details.
Can I choose my own insurance company?
Yes, you are free to choose any insurer that operates in PEI.
Does tenant insurance cover temporary accommodation?
Many policies pay for additional living expenses if you're forced to move out after damage.
How much coverage do I need?
Choose enough to cover the value of all your belongings and at least $1 million liability.
Can my landlord increase my rent if I don’t have insurance?
No, rent increases follow PEI rent increase regulations, not your insurance status.
Who do I contact if I have questions about tenancy law in PEI?
Contact the Residential Tenancy Office.
What is the main law for renting in PEI?
The Residential Tenancy Act (PEI) applies to all rental relationships.
If my guest causes damage, am I responsible?
Yes, tenants are responsible for damage caused by their guests under PEI law.
What forms are used for tenancy disputes in PEI?
Use Application to Resolve a Dispute to address issues with the Residential Tenancy Office.
Do I need insurance before moving in?
If the lease requires it, you must have a valid policy before the move-in date.
Can I be forced to buy insurance from a specific company?
No, you can choose your own insurance provider.
What happens if I don't renew my tenant insurance?
Your landlord may consider it a breach of lease if insurance is required.
Does tenant insurance cover roommates automatically?
No, only those named on the policy are covered. Roommates need their own coverage if not named.
Does tenant insurance cover shared spaces?
Belongings in shared spaces may be covered if they are listed on your policy; check insurer terms.
Can my landlord keep my deposit if I have no insurance?
No, deposits are held for damages, not insurance requirements, unless noted in the lease.
Who pays if there’s a leak and my property is ruined?
Your tenant insurance covers your belongings; landlord’s policy covers their property.
If my property is stolen by a neighbour, is it covered?
Most tenant insurance policies cover theft, regardless of who stole the items.
Can a landlord change insurance requirements mid-lease?
Changes to requirements must wait until lease renewal unless both parties agree in writing.
What paperwork is needed to file a dispute with the Residential Tenancy Office?
Submit the Application to Resolve a Dispute form and supporting documents.
How do I respond if my landlord claims I caused damage?
Gather evidence and file/respond using the Application to Resolve a Dispute, if needed.
Can my landlord charge me for their insurance?
No, landlords cannot transfer the cost of their own insurance to tenants.
Does tenant insurance cover car theft from the property?
No, cars are covered by auto insurance, not tenant insurance.
What if I accidentally cause a kitchen fire?
Your liability coverage may pay for damage to the landlord’s property and your contents.
Will tenant insurance cover rent if my unit is uninhabitable?
Many policies pay for extra living costs, but not usually replacement of lost rent for tenants.
Does tenant insurance cover lost keys and lock replacement?
Some policies include lost key coverage; check your insurer’s policy details.
Are students required to have tenant insurance in PEI?
Not by law, but many landlords require it, even for students.
How long should I keep tenant insurance records?
Keep for the entire tenancy and for several months after moving out in case of disputes.
Can my landlord ask for my insurance policy number?
Yes, if your lease requires proof of insurance, they can ask for the policy information.
Where can I find more info about PEI tenant rights?
Visit the Residential Tenancy Office.
How do I get a copy of the Residential Tenancy Act?
Access the Act at this PEI government link.
Can I change insurance providers mid-tenancy?
Yes, as long as you maintain continuous coverage and updated proof for your landlord.
What if my landlord tries to evict me for insurance reasons?
They must apply to the Residential Tenancy Office, and you can respond or dispute the claim.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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