Apartment-dwelling students who fear for the well-being of their massive CD collection or tricked-out computer may find comfort in renter’s insurance, which can be purchased to insure their belongings in off-campus apartments.

The importance of renter’s insurance is an issue many university students face, whether they have an apartment or are renting a house. Although it is relatively inexpensive, students must look at several factors to decide whether it is necessary for them to have.

The landlord or apartment owner covers the insurance on the actual building, but renter’s insurance will cover personal items in the apartment if they are stolen or damaged.

According to the Seattle Police Department, residential burglaries have risen 3.9 percent from 2005 in the U-District, Freemont and Ballard. This increase accounts for all thefts through the end of August compared to the same period last year.

Over $2 million in property value has been stolen so far this year. This past August, there were 160 burglaries reported in the North Seattle area.

The average cost of renter’s insurance is $150 to $200 per year, said Helene Fu, who works for State Farm Insurance on the Ave. The cost fluctuates and is dependent on different factors, including the type and location of the residence.

It is not always necessary for students to get renter’s insurance, however.

“If they’re dependent, students don’t need it because they’re covered under their parents’ homeowners insurance,” Fu said.

However, renter’s insurance would be a good option for independent students. Ultimately, it comes down to personal decisions, she said.

Junior Chris Tuttle, a resident at College Place Apartments, decided to invest in renter’s insurance at the urging of his mother and because of the protection it provides for a relatively inexpensive price.

Katie Wilson, a junior who lives in the University Manor Apartments, opted out of renter’s insurance because she feels that it isn’t necessary for her.

“I don’t own anything of overly high value, except my computer,” she said. “I’m not worried about theft.”

Tuttle said he believes theft is common in the area around UW because of the high percentage of young adults.

“I remember in the dorms that so many people had laptops or other things stolen, yet it was in part their fault for leaving things unprotected,” Tuttle said.

In spite of this, he said he still feels reasonably safe in his neighborhood.

Wilson’s apartment is located between several of the bars along the Ave.

“It can get pretty creepy at night, but I’ve never had any issues inside the building,” she said. “I feel really safe in my apartment.”

Reporter Abby Walker: abbywalker@thedaily.washington.edu