College students urged to consider renters insurance for dorm life

As thousands of college students across Arkansas, from the University of Central Arkansas to the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, settle into their campus housing, the topic of renters insurance is taking center stage.

Many students are unaware of the importance of insurance and the risks of living uninsured.

Pat Frizzell, a local State Farm agent, emphasized the significance of renters insurance for college students.

“Renters insurance is a great, you know, something that very important that college students should, should consider,” said Frizzell.

He shared a personal experience from his college days, “My first week at the University of Arkansas, my laptop was stolen from our room, yeah. So, you know, it happens, right? Living in a dorm, I would advise to visit with your insurance agent about what coverages does your homeowners’ policy maybe extend to your child while there on campus. Or, you know, look at renter’s insurance policies yourself.”

He noted that renter’s insurance is affordable, costing between $15 to $30 a month on average, depending on the coverage amount.

Beyond protecting belongings from theft or damage, renters’ insurance also offers liability coverage and living expenses if the dorm becomes uninhabitable due to unforeseen events.

Frizzell explained, “When these kids go to school, they’re taking a lot with them, especially the technology that’s required to be a student nowadays, right?”

For high-value items like laptops or jewelry, Frizzell recommended a personal articles policy, which allows for itemized coverage with a $0 deductible.

He also suggested students create a dorm inventory by taking a video of their belongings and storing it digitally to simplify the claims process.

Frizzell concluded, “If you need any help with your insurance needs, we’re here, right in Little Rock. We have an office in Stuttgart as well. We’d be happy to help.”