What Does Duplex Insurance Actually Cover? Full Coverage Breakdown

Owning a duplex is a smart investment, but protecting it requires understanding what duplex insurance actually covers. Many landlords assume a standard homeowners policy is enough, but duplex insurance is designed specifically for multi-unit properties and includes protections for property damage, liability, and lost rental income. Choosing the wrong coverage or underinsuring your duplex can leave you exposed to costly repairs or legal claims.

In this guide, we’ll break down the key components of duplex insurance, what’s typically included, optional endorsements, and how working with Wexford Insurance can ensure your property is fully protected.

1. Property (Dwelling) Coverage

The core of any duplex insurance policy is property coverage, which protects the physical structure against damage from:

• Fire, smoke, or explosions

• Windstorms or hail

• Vandalism or theft

• Certain natural disasters (flood or earthquake may require separate policies)

💡 Tip: Always insure for replacement cost value (RCV) rather than market value to ensure the building can be rebuilt if destroyed.

2. Liability Coverage

Liability insurance protects you if tenants, visitors, or contractors are injured on the property. It also covers legal defense costs for covered claims.

Typical situations include:

• Slip-and-fall accidents in common areas or stairwells

• Injuries caused by maintenance mistakes

• Property damage caused by tenants or guests

3. Loss of Rental Income

Also called rent loss coverage, this protects your cash flow if your duplex becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.

Examples include:

• Fire or storm damage that prevents tenants from living in the units

• Vandalism or other incidents that require repairs before re-renting

This coverage ensures you continue receiving rental income while repairs are made.

4. Optional Endorsements

Depending on location and risk factors, duplex owners may consider additional coverage:

• Flood Insurance – Required in FEMA-designated flood zones (FEMA Resource)

• Earthquake Insurance – For properties in seismic areas

• Umbrella Liability Insurance – Provides extra protection above standard liability limits

• Equipment & Appliances Coverage – Protects high-value fixtures or appliances provided to tenants

5. Personal Property Coverage (Owner-Occupied Units)

If you live in one unit of the duplex, some policies include personal property coverage for your belongings in the owner-occupied unit. Tenant belongings are generally not covered, and tenants should carry renters insurance to protect their property.

How Wexford Insurance Helps Duplex Owners

Wexford Insurance specializes in duplex and landlord insurance, providing tailored coverage that protects your property, liability, and rental income. They can help you:

• Structure policies for owner-occupied or fully rented duplexes

• Add optional endorsements like flood, umbrella, or earthquake coverage

• Ensure compliance with lender and local requirements

REQUEST A FREE QUOTE

Final Thoughts

Duplex insurance covers more than just the building—it protects against liability claims, rental income loss, and certain disasters. Understanding what is included, what optional endorsements may be necessary, and working with a specialized provider like Wexford Insurance ensures your investment is fully protected and financially secure.

Contact us today.

FAQs

1. Is duplex insurance tax deductible for landlords?

2. How does insurance differ for an owner-occupied duplex versus a fully rented duplex?

3. What insurance do lenders require when financing a duplex?