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Landlord Insurance Indiana

Last updated: May 26, 2025


"The first rule in investment is don't lose and the second rule in investment is don't forget the first rule." - Warren Buffett


Landlord insurance in Indiana is a specialized insurance package crafted for property owners renting out residential or commercial real estate within the Hoosier State. Whether you manage a single rental property in Indianapolis or own multiple units scattered across Fort Wayne, Bloomington, or Evansville, landlord insurance Indiana is critical for safeguarding your investment and managing risks particular to the region.

Unlike typical homeowners insurance, landlord insurance policies in Indiana are tailored to the distinct challenges rental property owners face, such as tenant liabilities and damage from weather conditions common in Indiana, including tornadoes and harsh winters.

Indiana property owners have seen insurance costs rise steadily in recent years, which impacts rental income and cash flow. From our analysis of thousands of landlord insurance Indiana policies, many landlords overpay by up to 25% simply due to limited access to specialized agents or agencies unfamiliar with landlord insurance nuances.

That’s why we created the OfferMarket Insurance platform, designed specifically to help Indiana landlords quickly compare quotes from more than 40 insurance providers. Our Indiana-focused insurance experts carefully review each offer to ensure you receive top-notch protection at the best possible price—helping landlords across Indiana save thousands annually.


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What Risks Does Landlord Insurance in Indiana Cover?


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A comprehensive landlord insurance policy in Indiana typically protects against:

🏠 Property damage caused by fire, tornadoes, hail, vandalism, and other common risks

⚖️ Liability claims if someone is injured on your Indiana rental property

💸 Loss of rental income if covered events render your property uninhabitable

🌊 Flood insurance (required separately if your Indiana rental is located in a flood-prone area)

Property Insurance

In Indiana, landlords contend with weather-related threats such as tornadoes in the spring and hailstorms, along with risks from fire and vandalism. The property insurance component of your landlord insurance Indiana policy covers these dangers and may include temporary housing costs if tenants must be relocated during repairs.

Indiana’s property insurance is organized into three main coverage forms—Basic, Broad, and Special—each addressing different “perils” (risks):

Basic Form Perils

The most affordable property insurance option for Indiana landlords covers only the basic perils, which include:
🔥 Fire
🌩️ Lightning
💥 Internal explosion

Extended Coverage (EC) Perils

In Indiana, the mnemonic WHARVES is often used to recall the extended coverage perils you can add to your basic property insurance policy:
🌬️ Windstorm (including tornadoes common in Indiana’s spring season)
🦹‍♂️ Civil commotion
🔥 Smoke damage (if not caused by fire, but from sudden damage)
🌨️ Hail (frequent in Indiana’s unpredictable weather)
✈️ Aircraft
🚗 Vehicle impact
💥 Explosion
❗ Riot

For vandalism-related risks, the acronym V&MM covers:
🏚️ Vandalism
🦹‍♂️ Malicious mischief

Broad Form Perils

Indiana insurance agents use the acronym BIG AFFECT to remember additional broad form perils included along with basic and extended coverage:
🥷 Burglary damage
🧊 Ice, sleet, snow (weight-related damage during harsh Indiana winters)
🪟 Glass breakage
🚰 Accidental discharge of water or steam
🧊 Freezing objects (important in Indiana’s cold months)
✈️ Falling objects
⚡ Electrical current damage
🏚️ Collapse
💥 Tearing asunder

Special Form Peril

The most comprehensive coverage for Indiana landlords is called “Special Form,” “open form,” or “DP-3” (commonly for single-family rentals). This form covers all risks of direct physical loss unless specifically excluded—so always review your policy’s exclusions carefully. Typical exclusions in Indiana policies include:
🌊 Flooding (requires separate flood insurance due to Indiana’s flood zones)
🌎 Earthquake (uncommon but possible; usually added via endorsement)
🤡 Intentional damage
⚠️ Building code enforcement costs
🔌 Power interruptions off-premises
🇺🇸 Government seizure

General Liability Insurance

General liability insurance in Indiana protects landlords against injury or property damage claims from tenants, visitors, or contractors on your rental property. Limits typically range from $100,000 to $1,000,000 per incident.

For instance, if a tenant slips on an icy walkway in your Indiana rental and files a lawsuit, your landlord insurance Indiana policy’s liability coverage helps cover medical bills and legal expenses.

Business Interruption Insurance (Loss of Rent)

Indiana landlords face the risk of rental income loss if tenants have to vacate due to property damage. Business interruption insurance included in your landlord insurance Indiana policy helps cover lost rent, maintaining stable cash flow during repairs.

This coverage is often affordable in Indiana, typically costing around $1 per $1,000 of annual rental income.

Flood Insurance

Given Indiana’s susceptibility to flooding, especially near the Ohio River or low-lying areas like Evansville or Terre Haute, flood insurance is vital if your property is in a FEMA-designated flood zone.

Indiana lenders commonly require flood insurance coverage of up to $250,000. This is separate from your landlord insurance Indiana policy and is usually available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). You can verify flood risk using FEMA’s Flood Map Service.

Landlord Insurance for DSCR Loans in Indiana

DSCR Formula Interest Only

If you finance your Indiana rental property with a Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loan, it’s important to understand the insurance requirements imposed by lenders. Indiana landlords must secure landlord insurance policies that meet lender guidelines to qualify and maximize loan approval.

Since insurance premiums impact your DSCR, selecting affordable yet comprehensive landlord insurance Indiana policies is essential for preserving cash flow and maintaining loan eligibility. Common DSCR lender requirements include:

DSCR Loan Insurance Requirement Required?
Property Insurance Yes
General Liability Insurance Yes
Business Interruption Insurance Yes
Mortgagee Clause Yes
Lender as Additional Insured Sometimes

Our OfferMarket Insurance platform can assist Indiana landlords in navigating DSCR loan insurance demands by providing quotes aligned with lender criteria while minimizing costs.

How Much Does Landlord Insurance Cost in Indiana?

The cost of landlord insurance in Indiana varies due to several key factors:

Location in Indiana

Insurance carriers use regional data when pricing policies. For example, properties near the flood-prone Ohio River in southern Indiana, such as Evansville, may face higher premiums than those in northern cities like South Bend or Fort Wayne. Local labor and material costs also influence repair expenses and insurance rates.

Property Insurance Type

Indiana landlords can choose from Basic Form, Broad Form, and Special Form coverage. Special Form offers the most extensive protection and is usually recommended for rental properties, though it comes at a higher cost.

Property Insurance Type Cost
Basic Form $
Basic Form + Extended Coverage $$
Broad Form $$
Special Form $$$$

Dwelling Coverage Amount

The most significant factor in determining your Indiana landlord insurance premium is the amount of dwelling coverage you purchase. Insuring your property at full replacement cost value (RCV) is recommended to avoid penalties like coinsurance.

With Indiana’s rising construction costs, it’s vital to regularly update your coverage limits to reflect current replacement expenses.

Dwelling Coverage Type Cost
Actual Cash Value $
Functional Replacement Cost Value $$
Replacement Cost Value $$$

Deductible

Choosing a higher deductible reduces your annual premium in Indiana. Many landlords select deductibles of $5,000 or more to balance out-of-pocket costs with premium savings.

Claim Frequency and Severity in Indiana

Insurance companies in Indiana consider your personal claim history and the claims history associated with your rental property when determining premiums. Frequent or severe claims—such as those resulting from water damage due to Indiana’s humid summers or storm damage from tornadoes—can lead to higher rates or coverage restrictions.

Crime Score Impact in Indiana

Neighborhood crime rates, especially in urban areas like Indianapolis, Gary, or Fort Wayne, influence landlord insurance premiums in Indiana. Higher crime scores often correlate with increased risks of vandalism, theft, and liability claims, prompting insurers to raise rates or impose limits.

Keep in mind that crime scores may not reflect security measures in place at your property. Investing in security systems or hiring on-site management can help reduce your insurance costs.

Property Condition and Maintenance in Indiana

Well-maintained properties in Indiana’s climate typically enjoy lower insurance premiums. Indiana landlords should prioritize updating plumbing and HVAC systems to prevent common issues like pipe bursts in winter and mold growth during humid months.

Older homes with outdated construction materials or structural problems often face higher insurance premiums. Documenting regular maintenance and improvements can positively influence your insurer’s evaluation and your policy terms.

How to Protect Your Rental Property in Indiana

Though landlord insurance Indiana is a crucial part of managing your rental risks, proactive measures can enhance your property’s protection:

Tenant Screening

In Indiana’s competitive rental markets—from Indianapolis to smaller cities like Bloomington and Lafayette—thorough tenant screening is essential. Conduct credit and background checks on all adult applicants. Set clear criteria for acceptable credit scores and disqualifying factors. When exceptions are made, request higher security deposits or personal guarantors with strong credit.

Regular Maintenance

Indiana’s variable weather calls for diligent upkeep. Inspect your rental at least quarterly to catch minor issues before they escalate—such as roof damage, basement leaks, or mold. Keep detailed maintenance logs and share them with your insurer for potential premium discounts.

Tenant Maintenance Education

Educate your Indiana tenants on simple upkeep tasks like replacing HVAC filters, shutting off the main water valve during emergencies, and dripping faucets during freezing weather to prevent costly water damage.

DP-3 Insurance in Indiana

DP-3 policies, also called Special Form coverage, are the benchmark for Indiana rental properties. This coverage reimburses losses on a replacement cost basis and protects against most physical damage except exclusions specified in your policy.

What is Coinsurance?

Coinsurance clauses penalize Indiana landlords who insure their properties below a specified percentage (typically 80%) of replacement cost value. Underinsuring means you’ll bear a portion of the claim beyond your deductible.

Coinsurance formula

(Insurance Carried ÷ Insurance Required) × Loss = Claim Payment – Deductible

Example:
If your Indiana rental has a replacement cost of $250,000 but is insured for only $125,000, with a $5,000 deductible, a $50,000 loss will be paid as:
($125,000 ÷ $250,000) × $50,000 = $25,000 - $5,000 = $20,000 from insurer.
You cover the remaining $30,000, highlighting the importance of insuring at full replacement cost.

Landlord Insurance Markets in Indiana

No matter where your rental property is located in Indiana—from the bustling neighborhoods of Indianapolis to the quieter communities of southern Indiana or the college towns like Bloomington—we connect you with specialized landlord insurance options.

Best Landlord Insurance in Indiana

Indiana landlords face many choices when selecting insurance. We recommend a policy that includes:

  • Comprehensive property insurance designed for Indiana’s specific weather and risks
  • General liability insurance protecting against tenant and visitor injuries
  • Business interruption insurance to safeguard your rental income
  • Flood insurance if your property lies within a flood zone

Working with an agency experienced in Indiana landlord insurance and offering multiple carriers helps you secure the best coverage at the most competitive price. Start your landlord insurance quote with OfferMarket Insurance today!

Landlord Insurance Guidelines for Indiana DSCR Loans

DSCR Formula Interest Only

The following guidelines reflect best practices for landlord insurance in Indiana to meet DSCR lender requirements:

Property Coverage

Deductible Premium Cost
$1,000 $$$$
$2,500 $$$$
$5,000 $$$
$7,500 $$
$10,000 $
Coverage Type Requirement
Property Insurance Mandatory, AM Best Rating A- VIII or higher, 1-year term
Limits 80% of replacement cost or loan amount, whichever is higher
Deductible $5,000
Policy Type Special Form (Dwelling Fire or Commercial Property)
Cancellation Notice 30 days
Lender’s Designation Mortgagee

General Liability Insurance

General Liability Insurance Requirement
Mandatory Yes
AM Best Rating A- VIII or higher
Limits $500,000 per occurrence, $1,000,000 aggregate
Deductible $1,000
Coverage Occurrence basis
Cancellation Notice 30 days
Lender’s Designation Additional Insured

Business Interruption Insurance

Business Interruption Insurance Requirement
Mandatory Yes
AM Best Rating A- VIII or higher
Limits One year of gross rental revenue
Cancellation Notice 30 days
Lender’s Designation Mortgagee

Flood Insurance

Flood Insurance Requirement
Mandatory if in flood zone Yes
AM Best Rating A- VIII or higher
Limits $250,000 or loan balance, whichever is greater
Cancellation Notice 30 days
Lender’s Designation Mortgagee

Additional Details for Indiana Landlord Insurance

Detail Information
Mortgagee Clause OfferMarket Capital LLC ISAOA/ATIMA
627 S Hanover St
Baltimore, MD 21230
Condos and PUDs in Indiana Blanket policies allowed if individual units are covered. Associations must maintain all-risk coverage for common areas and equipment at 100% replacement cost.
Instructions Use ACORD forms for compliance. Submit insurance certificates, invoices, or paid receipts at least 24 hours before closing. Final policy documents must be submitted within 60 days of closing. Notify carriers if the property becomes vacant and obtain a vacancy permit if required.

.Frequently Asked Questions About Landlord Insurance in Indiana

How does OfferMarket Insurance work for Indiana landlords?

OfferMarket Insurance is a platform specialized in landlord insurance Indiana property owners need. We compare quotes from multiple carriers, ensuring policies meet your preferences and lender requirements in Indiana. Our experts review every quote so you get the best coverage at the best price.

Do I need a Builders Risk Policy in Indiana?

Builders Risk insurance is not included in standard landlord insurance Indiana policies. You only need it if you are renovating, rehabbing, or building a rental property. It protects your property and materials during construction phases.

Can I use Functional Replacement Cost instead of Replacement Cost Value for my Indiana rental?

It depends on your lender’s rules in Indiana. Many lenders accept Functional Replacement Cost, but some require Replacement Cost Value based on your property’s age and condition as noted in your Indiana appraisal.

Why does my Indiana lender need to be an Additional Insured?

Some DSCR lenders in Indiana require this. Being an Additional Insured extends liability coverage to the lender, while the Mortgagee Clause covers property rights. Understanding both ensures your Indiana policy meets lender expectations.

Can I use my preferred insurance agent for landlord insurance in Indiana?

Yes, if your agent can provide competitive landlord insurance Indiana policies and understands specific coverage requirements. However, agents focusing only on personal insurance may lack knowledge of Indiana landlord insurance details, causing delays.

Can I pay for landlord insurance on the HUD-1 or ALTA settlement statement in Indiana?

DSCR loans in Indiana generally require full payment of landlord insurance premiums at closing, either on the HUD-1/ALTA statement or directly via your insurance agent before settlement.

Can I escrow my landlord insurance premium in Indiana?

Many institutional lenders in Indiana require premiums to be escrowed as part of your monthly mortgage payments to ensure continuous coverage.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my Indiana landlord insurance policy?

Yes, Indiana insurers must refund unearned premiums on a pro-rated basis. Ensure you have replacement coverage in place before canceling to avoid gaps.

What is an AM Best Rating?

AM Best rates insurance companies’ financial strength. In Indiana, choose carriers rated A- VIII or higher for landlord insurance to guarantee dependable coverage.

What is Builders Risk Insurance in Indiana?

Builders Risk covers Indiana properties and materials during construction or renovation. It protects against fire, wind, theft, and vandalism during building and typically ends when construction is complete or the property is occupied.

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