Requiring renters insurance

[Brian Springfield]

I’m a “small time” landlord with SFHs.

Up to now I have not been actively requiring renters insurance in my leases.

I once had tenants with a large dog, and in that case I put a clause in the lease stating that they would acquire and hold renters insurance including pet coverage, but I never asked them to show me proof. 

How mandatory is it? Am I setting myself up for grief by not taking it seriously?  

What happens if the lease states they are required to have it but they never bother? Would that in any legal way absolve my liability and place it back on them?

If not - how do you all make sure the tenant has renters insurance, that it covers personal property, liability, and animals, and how do you make sure they don’t turn around and cancel it right after they move in??

Thank you!!