Short answer: In Oregon, your landlord's policy doesn't cover your belongings or liability. Under ORS 90.300, a landlord who takes a security deposit, which includes any last month's rent deposit, must give you a receipt. If they claim any of it, they must give you a written accounting within 31 days after the tenancy ends and you deliver possession, stating the specific basis. Deposits and prepaid rent are accounted for separately. The unclaimed balance must be returned within the same 31 days.
This guide is general information for Oregon 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: Receipts and what counts as a deposit
Under ORS 90.300, a "security deposit" includes any last month's rent deposit. The landlord must give you a receipt for any deposit. Keep it with your lease and move-in photos.
Step 2: The 31-day accounting
- If the landlord claims any of the deposit or prepaid rent, they must give you a written accounting that states specifically the basis for the claim within 31 days after the tenancy ends and you deliver possession.
- The landlord must provide separate accountings for security deposits and prepaid rent.
- The unclaimed portion must be returned no later than 31 days after the tenancy ends and you deliver possession. If you both agree in a later addendum, it can be refunded electronically.
ORS 90.300 also limits what can be deducted and provides remedies if a landlord fails to comply. Read the full section or contact the Oregon State Bar's lawyer referral service with specific questions.
Step 3: Wildfire, smoke and quakes
Fire and smoke are typically covered perils for belongings, and loss of use helps if you're evacuated. Earthquake is usually excluded unless you add an endorsement. Flood is generally excluded; see FloodSmart.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Oregon.
Frequently asked questions
What counts as a security deposit in Oregon?
Under ORS 90.300, it includes any last month's rent deposit.
How long does an Oregon landlord have to account for my deposit?
Within 31 days after the tenancy ends and you deliver possession.
Does an Oregon landlord have to separate deposit and prepaid rent?
Yes. Separate written accountings are required.
Does Oregon renters insurance cover earthquakes?
Usually only with an endorsement.
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.