Fire Victim Emphasizes Importance of Renters Insurance

An Oregon woman is urging other people to consider renters insurance after many of her family's possessions were lost in an apartment fire.

The report from Eugene, Oregon's KVAL-TV tells the story of Rhea Chrismer, whose rented home and garage were destroyed in the recent fire, although neighbors did manage to get her family's dogs out of the house.

"You can't save the sentimental things, of course, but at least if you have children, there is something…You can replace their bedrooms again," Chrismer told the television station, which noted that her family did not carry renters insurance although the community has been helping with some fundraising and clothing needs.

The report also noted that area residents typically pay less than $200 a year for a policy.

Considering the peace of mind and low cost of renters insurance, a policy is something that consumers should consider regardless of how long they plan to stay in their current location. This is especially the case when considering that few landlords are insured for losses of a tenant's personal belongings.