Alabama renters insurance and security deposit guide

Short answer: Your Alabama landlord's policy covers the building, not your belongings or liability. Under Alabama Code §35-9A-201, a landlord generally can't take more than one month's rent as a security deposit, with exceptions for pets, changes to the premises and increased liability risks. Within 35 days after the tenancy ends and you deliver possession, the landlord must refund the deposit or give you an itemized list of amounts withheld. If they miss that deadline, they must pay you double your original deposit.

This guide is general information for Alabama renters. It isn't legal advice, and local ordinances can add rules. Your lease and policy wording control.

Your landlord's policy covers the building, not your belongings or liability. A renters policy (HO-4) covers personal property, personal liability and loss of use; flood is generally excluded (see FloodSmart). Coverage basics: renters insurance. Roommates: whether renters insurance covers roommates. Liability: how much renters liability coverage you need.

Step 1: The deposit cap

Under Alabama Code §35-9A-201 (the Alabama Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, as published by the Macon County Circuit Court), a landlord can't demand security of more than one month's periodic rent. Exceptions are allowed for pets, changes to the premises, or increased liability risks.

Step 2: The 35-day refund

• The landlord may apply the deposit to accrued rent and damages from your failure to maintain the unit, itemized in a written notice delivered with any amount due 35 days after the tenancy ends and you deliver possession.
• If the landlord doesn't refund the entire deposit, they must give you an itemized list of amounts withheld within the 35 days.
• When you move out, give the landlord a valid forwarding address in writing. If you don't, they mail it first-class to your last known address or the rental's address. A deposit you don't claim is forfeited after 180 days.
• If the landlord fails to mail a timely refund or accounting, they must pay you double the amount of your original deposit.

Step 3: Storms

Alabama renters face tornadoes, severe thunderstorms and, near the Gulf, hurricanes. A renters policy covers your belongings for covered wind and fire losses, and loss of use if the unit becomes unlivable. Flood needs separate coverage; see FloodSmart.

Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Alabama.

Frequently asked questions

Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.