Insurance option for renters

To help with the high cost of replacing items and paying for building repairs after fire or water damage, such as what occurred at Fox Hill Saturday night, students can look into renter’s insurance.

"Anyone who rents an apartment should have renter’s insurance," said Lisa Shaffer, SunChase apartments marketing manager.

Sophomore Louis Burgdorf, who lives on Cantrell Street, said, "I don’t have renter’s insurance. I tried to get it, but didn’t know where to get it."

Anyone can get renter’s insurance through such insurance agencies such as USAA, All State and Nationwide. The cost and coverage will vary depending on the person’s living situation and the agency they go through.

CSI Insurance Agency, Inc. offers several different options for college students, including a Student Personal Property Protector Plus insurance plan, which varies in price depending on what is covered by it. CSI also offers renter’s insurance. This runs about $20 per month, but can fluctuate, according to CSI.

The personal property plan offers protection for computers, PDAs, cellular phones, books, clothing, sports equipment and all other personal property, as with most personal property plans.

The renter’s insurance plan protects property and any claims or suits against the owner for bodily injury or damage to property of others for which the renter could be held responsible. This is standard for most renter’s insurance plans.

Some students are covered through their parents’ insurance plan, not recognizing their coverage.

"In general, students usually go through their parents," said Heather Herrick, coordinator for off-campus life.

"Check with your parents’ insurance to make sure," she added.