After a fire broke out at the Bell Oaks apartment complex Sept. 11, Sacramento State student Laura Hurst lost nearly everything, and damages have left her living with her in-laws.

In Hurst’s case, and others who have experienced a tragic loss like this, insurance companies can compensate for losses by either replacing or crediting the renters for their possessions. If a residence is uninhabitable for some reason, the insurance company can also pay for a temporary stay at another location.

Renters’ insurance protects tenants in case of an extensive list of tragedies, including fire, water damage, theft and some other instances depending on the insurance company.

Although this insurance is helpful in securing possessions, its popularity among renters is not strong. In a phone survey conducted by the Independent Insurance Agencies and Brokers of America, two-thirds of renters in America did not have insurance in 2001.

Renters’ insurance also protects against liability if someone is hurt in the tenant’s home. Insurance holders are also covered if they are found damaging someone else’s property.

Many college students at Sac State cannot afford to own a home. Renting apartments or houses is an investment that most college students can handle, but they don’t always know their liability.

“Any insurance is better than no insurance, but how can we get it?” said sophomore communications major Tori Murray. “We’re college kids; we have no money.”

In order to obtain renters’ insurance, a personal property value must be submitted. One way to do this chore is to make an inventory list of all personal belongings, then estimate the worth of each item including any collections such as coins or stamps. Insurance companies will help guide tenants through this process, sometimes requiring photos or proof of ownership.

The need for renters insurance is often higher than most imagine. According to the Web site of the United States Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Statistics, claims renters are 79 percent higher than that of a homeowner.

Renters’ insurance provides protection for not only college students, but also anyone who wants to be assured that their possessions and liability are secure.