Frantically searching for culprit, Phyllis became more and more frustrated. The sinks were turned off. The tubs were empty. The dishwasher wasn't on and it hadn't rained for weeks. Then she realized where it was all coming from. It seems that good ole' neighbor Joe Brown never felt it necessary to repair that kitchen sink leak. Why should he have? The leak never came in on his side of apartment wall.

So now what? It wasn't her fault she had a new indoor swimming area, but would she have to pay for damages? Allstate Agent Joe McLean says that she purchased a good renter's insurance policy, she would be covered. There are renter's insurance policies which protect you in event of a bursted pipe, water heater, water bed, etc. With this insurance, you won't have to worry about replacing pipes, carpeting, or your personal belongings directly out-of-pocket.

1. Make a list of your top housing priorities.

Do you need extra parking spaces? A place that welcomes pets? A large kitchen or linen closet? A ground-floor entrance to your home? Or what? Thinking through your needs ahead of time can help you find an apartment that meets those needs, instead of one that just strikes your fancy at first glance.

2. Check out property.

In addition to examining condition of for-rent unit, walk through property to see whether it appears to be well-maintained. Is landscaping healthy or dying? Nicely trimmed or growing wild? Are any windows, steps or railings broken or dangerous? Do access doors open easily and shut tightly? Walk through at night, too. Are parking areas and pathways well lit? What about stairwells and hallways?

3. Talk to neighbors.

If you're serious about a particular apartment, knock on a few doors and ask your potential neighbors whether they're satisfied with building's amenities, management's responsiveness to repair needs and other issues of concern to you. Ask: Would you tell a friend to move into this building?

4. Examine lease.