A renter's losses from theft, fire, and other catastrophes are usually not covered by the landlord's insurance policy. Renters are responsible for insuring their own property against loss or damage and obtaining liability coverage. When theft or damage occurs to rental property, renters are usually compensated by the owner only for property loss resulting from the owner's negligence, which normally is determined in court. Most students who are single and still consider their parents’ home their home may be covered by their parents' homeowner's insurance policy, but this should not be automatically assumed and the coverage may only be partial. Check to be sure!

Renter's insurance will protect you against financial loss if the contents of your dwelling are damaged or destroyed by fire or theft. Items normally covered by such a policy include furniture, appliances, stereo equipment, television sets, clothing, etc. This protection should also extend to cover the theft of personal items from your car. Renter's insurance policies vary in cost and amount of coverage and can be obtained from individual insurance companies. Also, the protection can be transferred to another location if you move.

Single students living in residence halls and in group environments, such as apartments, are often denied renter's insurance. Insurance companies believe that the large number of individuals living together causes a high risk of theft and fraud. Some insurance companies will provide coverage if everybody in an apartment has renter's insurance. Students living in group environments are usually still covered by their parents' homeowner's policy. If you have the problem of getting renter's insurance, one nation-wide company specializes in college student renter's insurance and will usually provide it even to singles living in group situations. Contact the Off-Campus Housing Office for details.

When you purchase a renter's insurance policy and an item is stolen (or burned, etc.,) the insurance company will ask you for proof of purchase of that item. Receipts or a comprehensive list of your possessions, including any serial numbers, will satisfy this request.