'Tis the Season for Household Burglaries; Holidays See Rise in Theft -- Are You Prepared?

LOS ANGELES -- The holidays may be a time for giving, but thieves can twist the season into a time for the taking.

November and December typically see a rise in household thefts. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, more than 242,000 Californians were burglarized in 2003. But while most homeowners have a financial backstop against crime through their homeowner insurance policies, roughly 80 percent of renters do not have insurance.

"Renters often believe that their landlord's insurance will cover their losses. Others may think that they do not have enough property to insure," said Candysse Miller, executive director of the Insurance Information Network of California. "They may be putting more at risk than they realize."

A renter's policy provides coverage for stolen personal property, ranging from clothes to sporting goods to entertainment systems. It also provides coverage from damage due to fire, smoke and certain water damage. Additional liability insurance is also available to cover medical and legal expenses in case you are sued by someone injured in your apartment.

Before purchasing renters insurance, remember the following:

--Conduct a home inventory. It will assist you determine the best policy to suit your needs. Keep your inventory in a safe place and be sure to update it annually. An inventory can also help in the event that you file a claim.

--Shop around. Policies and prices vary from company to company.

--Ask for available discounts. Many insurers will offer discounts if you have more than one policy with them.

--Verify your policy before signing. If you have questions about limits or conditions, ask your agent or broker for clarification.

IINC is a non-profit, non-lobbying insurance trade association dedicated to helping consumers understand insurance and safety issues. For more information on this and other subjects, visit the IINC Web site at www.iinc.org.