Fire Marshal: More Tenents Should Know About Renters Insurance

A Broad Street apartment fire on April 30 was quickly extinguished by Nashua Fire Department, and no injuries were reported. Quick action saved the three-story building, which also houses two Nashua businesses – Flower Outlet and Hudson Trophy.

However, those who lived in the apartment were busy salvaging what they could in the aftermath. On Nashua Patch Facebook, a post by Justin Rice underscores a typical scenario among those who rent in Nashua: 

"That was my place. I live there and honestly who cares about some water damage into the stores when I lost all my clothes and my new bedroom set."

Although I was unable to reach Justin for further comment, Nashua Fire Marshal Cynthia Bautista has provided the following information on the importance – and affordability – of renter's insurance. Valuable information. Please share.

"Fire is devastating and is not prejudice – it attacks people of all nationalities, age, sex, socio-economic status and location at any time of any day. Fire does not take holidays! It will sneak up on you and rob you of everything you have worked for. When you least expect it, expect it. Be prepared. Cover your assets with renters insurance. It is reasonably priced; most people we talk to pay between $13-$16/month, of course that would depend on your inventory.

Do not count on your landlord's insurance to cover your personal belongings. Their insurance will only cover the building structure –not your valuables. We hope the landlord educates you about your lack of coverage when signing the lease.

When you rent, you may have a stand-alone unit or you could have other tenants in adjacent units. The fire could be attacking them and affect you at the same time. You could suffer from water or smoke damages as a result. Perhaps you are unable to use your space for an undetermined amount of time. You may have lost all of your belongings or not be permitted to access your space or property for some time depending on the damages and situation.

When tragedy strikes, you will be emotionally drained. That should not be the time you are faced with the financial burden of figuring out where you will go and how you will replace your belongings. Granted, renters insurance can't replace items of sentimental value, but it can certainly help you get your life back on track in a more reasonable amount of time.

We wish more people knew about renters insurance before we have to present them with the devastating effects that fire has placed upon them.

Please make sure you have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, use caution when decorating with candles, dispose of smoking materials properly and consider getting renters insurance before it is too late." - Cynthia Bautista, Nashua Fire Marshal