Living in an off-campus apartment is a popular housing optionfor many college students, as it comes with greater freedom andindependence.

At the same time, however, an off-campus apartment that is notaffiliated with a college or university can bring newresponsibilities. Often, a parent's homeowners' insurance policycovers students living in dormitories, but once a student moves offcampus it is a whole new ballgame. Renters' insurance, although notusually required, can be a necessity for college students. Renters'insurance not only can protect a college student's belongings —which often include expensive laptops, televisions and othervaluables — but it can also provide liability protection in theevent that someone is injured unintentionally on the property.

However, for many students, renters' insurance may seem like aforeign concept. Many think it is expensive, or maybe think it isunnecessary. With an agent's help, students and parents can measuretheir renters' insurance needs and explore various options.