Things You'll Need:
- Itemized list of your belongings
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Step 1
Make an itemized list of your belongings that estimates the approximate value of each item, detailing how much it would cost to replace each of your possessions. Document each major purchase with a photograph and sales receipt, if possible, and store both in a safe place.
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Step 2
Decide whether you prefer a policy that pays the cash value of your belongings (market value) or a policy that will pay the amount required to replace your belongings.
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Step 3
List the items you own that have higher values, such as jewelry, stereo equipment, artwork or musical instruments. These items may require additional renters insurance coverage.
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Step 4
Discover whether you are in a region of the country that is prone to floods, hurricanes or unusual events that might require additional coverage.
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Step 5
Decide how much you are willing to pay for a deductible. Do not forget that this is the amount for which you will be responsible for each claim that you file.
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Step 6
Determine the amount of medical liability or personal-injury protection that you may need if someone is accidentally hurt on your rental property. The minimum-dollar amount is set by the state. However, you can increase it to a higher level if you are willing to pay a higher premium.
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Step 1
Find an online insurance company by comparing quotes at Netquote.com (see Resources below).
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Step 2
Compare at least three quotes from different insurance companies.
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Step 3
Compare insurance companies according to their customer-service and financial-stability ratings at ConsumerReports.org (See Resources below).
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Step 4
Contact your renters insurance choice through the company's website. Be prepared to offer a credit-card number or other means of payment.
