Stay clear of anywhere that insists on renters insurance and doubly so at the places that insist you buy their renters insurance. This is a way to reduce costs and offer attractive hourly rates but leaves you with the hidden cost of the insurance. Rent only from places that have fair and straightforward insurance included in the hourly rates and ask what the deductible is and be prepared to pay if you prang it. Ask yourself why some places are insistent on it and some places absolutely don't care .... As for protecting yourself from being sued, what make you think the renters insurance company will be any different?