Many college apartments come furnished or offer rental furniture, but your college student still brings many possessions into the unit. Clothing, electronics, dishes, kitchenware, jewelry, text books and everything else that your child owns needs protection from fire and theft. That's why renters insurance is so important.

Many people, especially young adults who may not know much about insurance, believe that the apartment complex provides coverage for unforeseen events. But this is only partially true. Landlords do purchase coverage for the building structures and common areas. However, each resident must buy their own coverage to protect their belongings.

Renters insurance is designed to protect both personal assets and liability risks associated with a guest becoming injured within a policyholder;s unit. Some policies even cover the cost of temporary housing in the event that your apartment becomes temporarily inhabitable. Renters insurance generally costs less than $200 per year, or less than $20 per month.

Though there are no state laws requiring college students (or anyone for that matter) to purchase renters insurance, some apartment complexes enforce the need for it under the lease terms. Be sure that your child reviews the lease with the complex staff in order to meet any necessary conditions of renting at that property.

Your independent insurance agent can help you find the right coverage for the right price. Whether you or your child pays the bill, having this valuable coverage helps bring you all peace of mind so your child can focus on acing next week's big test.

We've got you covered. Call McFarlin Insurance Agency at (410) 312-7800 for more information on Columbia renters insurance.