The fact is, your belongings are not covered by your apartment complex or your landlord. That means it's up you to insure your belongings.
Tamika Hayden is just one of the hundreds of victims of Wednesday night's massive fire.
Like many other fire victims, Hayden has lost everything.
But, Tamika has learned her possessions will be replaced. Thursday, she met with her insurance agent to go over the terms of her renters insurance policy.
"I just got it because it seemed like the right thing to do," said Hayden.
But, according to a recent Allstate survey, 55-percent of apartment dwellers in Philadelphia don't have renter's insurance. And, 62- percent of renters in Pennsylvania are living without insurance!
"It would cost you about $15 a month, so for people not to have it, it's a shame, said Jody Davies of Allstate Insurance Agency.
Rental insurance protects a tenant in cases of fires, floods, and burglary. It reimburses for items such as furniture, clothing, personal items, and electronics.
Mike Knudson with Pennsylvania's Department of Insurance says renters should also know there options when shopping for a policy.
They include, an Actual Cash Value policy that pays to replace your possessions minus the deduction for depreciation.
Or, a Replacement Cost Policy. This pays the actual cost of replacing your belongings and does not deduct for depreciation. Both options have policy limits on payouts.
Officials suggest shopping around for the right policy. And, they say college students-living in dorms should also get renters insurance.
