Rent responsibly; A nominal fee can protect your property

When moving off campus, students should seriously consider acquiring a renter’s insurance policy.

Recent events have emphasized how important this protection is.

A group of four students were displaced last month when a fire started in the home they rented. None of those students had renter’s insurance. There was also a noticeable jump in robberies last fall.

But this should lead us not to be scared, but instead take preventative measures to insure ourselves against the worst.

Renter’s insurance is very affordable. For instance, an average student could get a policy for as low as about $10 a month.

These policies typically provide protection against loss of property from fire, theft or vandalism.

For a small fee, you can be protected. It is by no means an excuse to be reckless, but if an emergency should occur, it’s nice knowing you’re covered. Some agencies will even pay for your temporary housing costs if you are displaced.

And for those of us graduating, now is the time to re-evaluate the value of our belongings and our own vulnerabilities as we adjust to a new life.

Focusing on a new career or living in a new city may sound overwhelming, but renter’s insurance should be part of the equation.

Just like car and health insurance are considered necessities, so should renter’s insurance.

All it takes is a call to your insurance provider of choice to get started.

So when signing the lease to your first apartment or renewing your current one, be responsible. There’s no excuse.Not only is renter’s insurance the sensible thing to do, but it’s affordable too.