In the face of unforeseen disasters, renters insurance can be a lifeline, providing financial stability when it’s needed most. Despite this, a surprising number of renters choose to forego coverage, even in regions most susceptible to natural disasters, according to recent research. This lack of protection can leave renters in a vulnerable financial position, grappling with the loss of personal belongings without a safety net, as they typically lack the financial cushion that homeowners often have.

Insurance attorney Linda Klamm, who lost her home in the 1991 Oakland firestorm, knows all too well the struggles that arise from such disasters. Despite being trained to handle insurance claims, Klamm found the process of rebuilding her life and replacing her belongings to be taxing, even with an insurance policy. The reality is harsher for renters who lack coverage. According to a 2022 report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University, only about 40% of rental households have renters insurance, compared to 88% of homeowners, as per a 2023 study by the Insurance Information Institute. This discrepancy in coverage often leaves low-income households, particularly those in states hardest hit by climate change, in a precarious financial situation.

Renters Insurance: A Necessity Often Overlooked, Particularly in Disaster-Prone Areas

In the face of unforeseen events such as fires, hail, or even human error, renters insurance can provide a much-needed financial safety net. Despite its importance, many individuals opt not to purchase coverage, including those in areas most frequently and severely affected by natural disasters, according to recent research.

Personal Experience Advocating for Renters Insurance

Linda Klamm, an attorney specializing in insurance policy claims in the aftermath of catastrophes, shares her personal experience of losing her home in the 1991 Oakland firestorm. Despite the horrifying ordeal, Klamm emphasizes the critical importance of renters insurance, particularly for those with limited financial resources.

While homeowners generally have more financial stability, renters often bear the brunt of losses without any financial cushion. Klamm strongly recommends securing a policy ahead of time, which typically covers fire and numerous other catastrophic events to a certain extent. However, most policies exclude earthquakes and floods.

The Cost and Reach of Renters Insurance

According to a recent analysis by NerdWallet, the average cost of a renters insurance policy in 2023 was $148 a year, around $12 a month. However, only about 40% of rental households purchase renters insurance, as per a 2022 report by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University. This is in stark contrast with 88% of homeowners who purchase coverage, according to a 2023 study by the Insurance Information Institute.

The Role of Income and Geography in Insurance Coverage

A new analysis from the nonprofit Financial Health Network reveals that insurance coverage distribution tends to leave low-income households, particularly those in climate change-affected states, without policies. For many, the cost of insurance products acts as a barrier. Moreover, some consumers opt not to purchase insurance, especially if they perceive their risks to be manageable or are unaware of them.

States with higher-than-average annual losses include California, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, and Washington. The Financial Health Network notes that these losses are due to wildfires, flooding, landslides, hurricanes, and other unusual weather events.

Future Policy Recommendations and Tips for Consumers

The Financial Health Network report suggests structural policy changes, such as mandating grace periods for consumers facing financial hardship and struggling to pay insurance premiums. It also recommends landlords increase the use of rental insurance by making it a default expense for renters.

Insurance companies often offer discounts on renters insurance when bundled with another policy, such as auto insurance. Klamm advises those living in high-risk areas to consider cash value versus replacement cost when choosing a policy.

A Call to Revisit Your Coverage

While it’s common to purchase a policy and continue paying for it without making changes, Klamm advises policyholders to revisit their coverage choices over time. As individuals acquire more belongings, it’s important to adjust policy limits to match the current cost of replacing these items.

In conclusion, renters insurance might be a monthly expense that many overlook, but its value becomes clear in the face of a catastrophe. For those living in disaster-prone areas or with limited financial resources, this coverage could be the difference between financial stability and disaster.

This article was originally published in the Los Angeles Times.