Sunday, January 17, 2010

tips on choosing an apartment

5 Tips for Choosing Apartment Renters Insurance

Property and Liability Insurance Coverage are Important for a Renter

Choosing apartment renters insurance is important to safeguard the renter's belongings as well as their liability if someone is injured at their home.

When renting an apartment, it’s important to find apartment renters insurance. Just like car insurance, coverage on a home, even if it's just an apartment, is necessary to protect the renter. Insurance for a dwelling, be it an apartment, condo, or house, is key to protecting the renter's possessions as well as protecting the renter against liability if someone is injured in their home.

Tip 1: Decide What Coverage Is Needed

Deciding what coverage is needed is the first step. Renters need to determine an estimate of the value of their possessions inside the apartment. This includes furniture; electronics like televisions, computers, stereos, MP3 players, etc.; clothing; jewelry; and other valuables. An estimate is needed to ensure the property is covered in case of theft or fire.

Tip 2: Find Out if Flood Insurance Is Needed

Flood insurance is necessary in areas that are prone to flooding if the renter expects the insurance company to pay in case of loss from the effects of a flood. Insurance agents and insurance companies have maps marked with where floodplains are prevalent. This type of insurance is important to have where heavy rains cause damage from water seepage in basements as well as possible actual flooding.

Tip 3: Choose Enough Liability Insurance

Another part of apartment renters insurance coverage is liability insurance to protect the renter in case a visitor is injured while at the renter's apartment.

Tip 4: Get Several Quotes

Contacting the insurance agent where the renter already has automobile insurance coverage is a good place to start. Often individuals receive a discount when buying a second type of insurance with the same insurance company. Getting a quote for rates and coverage with the existing insurance company as well as quotes from two or more other insurance companies is a smart move. To save time, it may be wise to check online for price comparisons and coverage.