ResidentShield Blog | Tips, Guides & Insights for Renters

A row of tall electricity transmission towers stretches across a green field under a bright blue sky, illustrating a step in the process of how electricity works.

Electricity Explained: How It Works and Powers Your Apartment

Electricity is such a part of daily life that most of us barely think about it. But have you ever stopped to ask: “How does electricity work?” Understanding the basics can help you feel more confident when it comes to…

A living room with a gray sofa, toppled shelves, scattered plants, and an overturned lamp visually demonstrates earthquake damage, raising the question of whether renters insurance covers earthquakes for protecting belongings.

What Renters Should Know About Earthquake Insurance

One minute you’re sipping coffee on the couch, and the next, the floor is trembling, books are sliding off shelves, and your Wi-Fi cuts out mid-episode. Earthquakes hit fast and may leave you wondering not just, “What just happened?” but…

Two young women sit together on a dark leather sofa in a cozy living room, illustrating the importance of sharing and discussing questions to ask potential roommates before moving in together.

34 Essential Questions to Ask Potential Roommates Before Moving in Together

Moving in with a roommate can make rent and utilities more affordable and living more fun, but only if you pick the right person. A great roommate can become a close friend and make apartment life a lot easier. The…

An senior couple stands together by a window in a cozy apartment, quietly looking outside and reflecting on the implications of downsizing.

Downsizing for Seniors: A Practical Guide to Finding the Right Rental

Life and housing needs can change as new chapters in your adult life unfold. The big family home that once made sense may now feel like too much work or too expensive to keep. That’s why more older adults are…

A couple sits together on a beige sofa, reviewing documents and using a laptop with bills and a calculator on the coffee table, thoughtfully discussing how much renters insurance they need.

How much renters insurance do you need?

You just signed a lease for your new apartment. The boxes are stacked, your furniture is ready to be placed, and your electronics are waiting to be plugged in. But here’s a question that’s worth asking: How much renters insurance…

Average Utility Costs for Renters in the U.S.

When you’re renting an apartment, your monthly rent isn’t the only bill that matters. Utilities like electricity, gas, water, or internet can significantly add to your monthly expenses. That’s why understanding the average utility costs and how they’ve changed from…