Last Updated on February 4, 2026 by The Insurance Pros

Does Michigan Require Renters Insurance for Section 8 or Subsidized Housing?

Apartment building in Michigan representing housing covered under Section 8 or subsidized housing programs

If you reside in Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) or other subsidized housing in Michigan, you might encounter conflicting information regarding renters’ insurance. Here’s the clear answer:
Michigan law generally does not require renters insurance, but your landlord, property manager, or housing program may require it as part of your lease or program rules.

Quick takeaway:
Renters’ insurance is usually not required by state law, but it may be required by a lease, even in subsidized housing. Always confirm with your landlord and the program administrator.

Is Renters Insurance Required by Michigan Law?

In most situations, Michigan does not require renters’ insurance by state law. However, many landlords require it because it protects both the tenant and the property owner from common liability situations.

If you want a broader overview of what renters insurance covers, see our main guide here:
Michigan Renters Insurance Guide: Coverage and Costs.

What About Section 8 or Housing Choice Voucher Rules?

Section 8 (often called the Housing Choice Voucher program) is federally funded and administered through local housing agencies. Because of that, renters’ insurance requirements can vary.

  • Some landlords require renters’ insurance for all tenants, including voucher households.
  • Some housing providers recommend it but do not require it.
  • Some properties set minimum liability limits in the lease.

A key point: if a landlord lawfully requires renters’ insurance, the requirement generally needs to be applied consistently to assisted and unassisted tenants.

How to Confirm Whether You Need Renters Insurance

Use this quick checklist so you don’t get surprised later:

  • Read your lease carefully and look for terms like “renters insurance,” “tenant liability,” or “proof of coverage.”
  • Ask the property manager if renter’s insurance is required and whether they require specific liability limits.
  • Ask your housing agency if the program has insurance guidance for participants.
  • Confirm the deadline for providing proof of insurance, whether it is for move-in, renewal, or annual rec
  • Ask how they want proof (declarations page, emailed copy, portal upload).

If renter’s insurance is required, the most common proof is your declarations page, which shows your address, coverage dates, and liability amount.

What Renters Insurance Typically Covers

Even when it isn’t required, renters insurance is often worth considering because it can help cover common issues that leases do not.

  • Personal property: Coverage for your belongings (furniture, clothing, electronics).
  • Personal liability: Protection if someone gets hurt in your unit or you accidentally cause damage.
  • Loss of use: Help with temporary living expenses if your unit becomes unlivable due to a covered event.

Important note: your landlord’s policy typically covers the building, not your belongings. That’s one reason many leases encourage or require renters’ insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Section 8 require renters’ insurance in Michigan?

Not always. Requirements can vary by property and housing agency. Many requirements come from the lease rather than a statewide rule.

Can a landlord require renters’ insurance for voucher tenants?

In many cases, yes, as long as the requirement is lawful and applied consistently to tenants in similar situations.

What coverage amount do landlords usually ask for?

Many landlords request a minimum personal liability amount. The exact requirement is usually listed in the lease or rental rules.

If I can’t afford renters’ insurance, what should I do?

Ask the property manager whether there is flexibility regarding timing, required limits, or acceptable proof. If it’s a lease requirement, it’s better to address it early rather than risk a lease violation later.

Does renters’ insurance affect my voucher?

Renters insurance usually does not change voucher eligibility, but it may be required by your lease or property rules to remain in compliance.

Authoritative Resources

For official guidance and context at the program level, the following sources are helpful:

Final Thought

If you’re in Section 8 or subsidized housing in Michigan, the safest approach is simple: assume renters insurance may be required until you confirm your lease and program rules. A quick check with your property manager can prevent avoidable problems later.