Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey strongly urged all North Carolina renters to make sure they are covered by insurance following the devastating apartment fire in Morrisville.
According to news reports, six people were hurt and 70 people displaced after a massive fire at Camden Westwood Apartments at 2100 Summit Ridge Loop near the Park West Village shopping center Monday night.
If you live in a rented apartment, house or condominium, your landlord’s insurance does not cover your personal property or provide liability protection in the event of fire, storm damage, theft and other disasters. While renters’ insurance is not required by law, some landlords mandate personal coverage as part of a lease.
Commissioner Causey encouraged tenants to make sure they understand what’s covered in their renters’ insurance policy. “I think there is a misconception because some people may mistakenly believe the landlord may have some type of insurance, but the only insurance the landlord has is on the actual building,” Commissioner Causey said. “So, unless people have renters’ insurance, the loss is on them. It’s very inexpensive and it has so many benefits that people don’t think about above and beyond property loss.”
Renters’ insurance policies generally cover your belongings, medical expenses and even temporary housing if you are displaced. Many renters’ policies are quite affordable, with some starting at around $25 a month. Commissioner Causey suggests consumers shop for coverage among local North Carolina insurance agents.
(Causey creates video addressing renters’ insurance)