5 Items renters wish they had insured before a disaster

Very few of us sit down and plan for the worst case scenario. After all, why would we? But, whether it feels like it makes sense to or not, the fact of the matter is that failing to prepare can sometimes mean we prepare to fail. For Canadian renters, that mistake could cost them thousands. 

Tenant insurance exists to provide financial protection for those who rent. The coverage offered by this kind of policy extends to a host of belongings and situations. And while it won’t be able to restore your items, or prevent potential legal action, this kind of insurance makes affording replacement costs and legal fees much easier. 

But what kind of things are smart to financially protect? Here are five things renters in Canada often wish they’d insured before a disaster. 

1. E-bikes and scooters

E-bikes, scooters, and regular bicycles are one of the most commonly stolen items in Canada. They’re expensive, and usually something which you have to store outside – which makes them the perfect target for thieves looking for a quick win. 

In the first few months of the year alone, we’ve seen a number of high-value claims relating to e-bikes and scooters:

• $600 for the theft of two scooters in Ontario 

• $612 for an e-bike and accessories taken from a locker in BC

• $2,836 for the theft of an e-bike in Alberta

• $594 for a stolen scooter and bike in BC

Internal APOLLO claims data based on claims reported between January 2026 and March 2026

Even if you rely on something seemingly secure like a building’s security units, your bikes aren’t necessarily safe. Our research has found that 86% of all claims relating to storage lockers are for theft, with e-bikes being the most frequently targeted item. 

While tenant insurance won’t recover your bike, it can at least help to pay for its replacement. 

2. Electronics 

While not always a given, there’s a good chance electronic devices are going to be some of the most expensive in your home. That makes it all the more galling when they’re either destroyed or stolen. 

Things like phones, laptops, tablets, and other smart devices are not easily replaceable. Having a tenant insurance policy which steps in to cover some of the replacement cost can be a massive help after disaster strikes. 

Our internal data show some of the following successfully processed claims for electronic-related issues:

• $680 for the theft of electronic devices in Alberta

• $814 for a stolen laptop in Ontario 

• $312 for the theft of an iPhone Pro 16 in Alberta

• $906 for a laptop whose adaptor overheated in Ontario 

Internal APOLLO claims data based on claims reported between January 2026 and March 2026

3. Jewellery 

Whether it’s a necklace, broach, or ring, jewellery can be valued well into the thousands. Sadly, that’s what makes it another prime target for thieves. Whether it’s someone taking it, or items which get destroyed by a house fire or other disaster, tenant insurance can again come to your financial rescue.

With tenant insurance provided by APOLLO, you can add enhanced coverage to financially protect your jewellery. Renters can choose anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 in coverage for these kinds of valuables. 

4. Sports equipment 

We all love our hockey, baseball and basketball in Canada. But, as anyone who’s ever laced up their skates or donned a pair of cleats can tell you, they can be expensive to play. 

From shinguards to bats, sticks to helmets, sporting equipment quickly racks up. That’s especially true if you have little ones who are constantly outgrowing their gear. 

We recently processed one claim which saw a car window smashed, and the hockey bag on the back seat stolen. Despite not happening in their home, the tenant was able to claim $325* back towards replacing the gear and fixing their window.

*Internal APOLLO claims data based on claims reported between January 2026 and March 2026

5. What's in your vehicle

Your car insurance will cover you for accidents on the road, but it won’t necessarily always extend to theft. While there are enhanced coverages which will do this, it’s not always a given that you’ll be offered them by an insurer. 

Thankfully, that’s where tenant insurance can sometimes step in to lend a hand. You can get enhanced coverage to protect your possessions, even if they’re stolen from a vehicle. Just be aware that the vehicle itself is not covered. 

We’ve seen claims successfully processed for car break-ins in recent times – much like in the case of the aforementioned hockey equipment. 

It’s not always a guarantee, but, if your covered belongings are those which have been targeted, tenant insurance could kick-in.