Every August, thousands of students move into apartments and rental houses around the University of North Texas and Texas Woman's University. Between the lease, the deposit and the furniture, renters insurance is easy to overlook. It shouldn't be. Here's what students and parents in Denton should know.
Your landlord's insurance doesn't cover your stuff
Your apartment complex or landlord insures the building. If a fire, burst pipe or break-in damages your laptop, TV, bike or clothes, their policy won't pay to replace them. That's what renters insurance is for.
What renters insurance covers
- Your belongings, including laptops, phones, gaming systems, furniture, bikes and textbooks, against fire, smoke, theft, vandalism and certain water damage
- Coverage away from home, so a laptop stolen from a library or car can be covered
- Personal liability if a guest is injured or you accidentally damage someone else's property, like a kitchen fire that spreads to a neighbor's unit
- Loss of use, which helps pay for somewhere to stay if your apartment becomes unlivable
Is a parent's homeowners policy enough?
Sometimes, but often not. Many homeowners policies extend limited coverage to a full-time student living away from home, but it may come with a low limit, a high deductible, or rules that don't apply to off-campus apartments. A claim on a parent's policy could also affect their premium. A renters policy in the student's own name is usually simple, affordable and keeps claims separate.
Many Denton apartments require it
A lot of apartment communities near campus require proof of renters insurance before move-in and may ask to be listed as an "interested party." We can help you get a policy and proof of coverage quickly.
Tips to keep it affordable
- Bundle renters insurance with the student's auto insurance
- Choose a deductible you could comfortably pay
- Ask about good-student discounts on auto policies
- Take a quick video of your belongings so a future claim is easier
Get covered before move-in day
Trailmark Insurance Advisors is a local, independent agency in Denton, minutes from both campuses. We'll compare renters insurance from multiple carriers and help you find the right fit. Get a free quote.
Eric Glenn is the founder of Trailmark Insurance Advisors, an independent, Texas-owned agency at 3616 Duchess Dr, Ste. 120 in Denton, and a licensed Texas property and casualty agent. He has been helping North Texans save money on insurance since 2020 and compares coverage from Progressive, Travelers, Liberty Mutual, The Hartford and National General. Read Eric's story. Reach him at (214) 531-7932 or eric@texastrailmark.com.
This article is general information, not legal advice or a guarantee of coverage. Coverage depends on your specific policy, carrier and underwriting.
