 TITLE: Does Renters Insurance Require a Credit Check? CONTENT: How to Apply for Renters Insurance\n----------------------------------\nJust as with any other purchase, you should shop around to get the best rates for renters insurance.\nTo get started, figure out how much coverage you need by estimating the value of your personal belongings. Go from room to room making notes on everything you own, from your furniture down to the contents of your linen closet. It's a good idea to take photos or record videos of your \"property tour\" to show what you own. Once you've got a list, estimate how much it would cost to replace everything.\nNext, ask your landlord what kinds of security and safety measures the property has. Burglar alarms and security locks can reduce the risk of theft, while fire alarms, sprinklers and smoke detectors can reduce the risk of catastrophic fire—all of which can lower your renters insurance premiums.\nYou can apply for renters insurance with most major insurance companies simply by going online, calling or visiting an insurance agent. You'll typically be asked to provide:\n*   Your name, address and telephone number\n*   Your Social Security Number\n*   Your birth date\n*   Your marital status\n*   The rental property's address\n*   A start date for the insurance (such as the date you'll be moving in)\n*   The value of the personal property you want to cover\nYou may also be asked if you have a pet; dog bites are not often covered by renters insurance liability coverage. END