Is there a way to find out if someone has property and/or homeowners insurance and how long they have had it?

We were renting a house, 100+ acres of land, 2 sheds and a tractor barn were all included. With permission from the property owner we emptied out and cleaned up the tractor barn to start a vintage car and bike service and maintainence shop. She even helped supply some materials. We were fully stocked with tools and machinery when the barn caught fire and burnt to the ground in less than ten minutes.
The cause could not be determined due to the intensity of the fire, however, faulty electrical wire was the most likely cause. The owner claimed not to have "a lick of insurance" now we have found out from an not so reliable source not only was she insured, but she collected on the barn.

Her insurance would have covered the barn structure only and is fully hers to claim and keep or rebuild as she sees fit. Her insurance would not cover any of your belongings, you need to contact your own insurance agency for that claim.

Your current owner must have homeowners insurance. The lender requires it.
She however is not responsible for your property at all. You should of purchased renters insurance to protect your own property. Sorry for your losses.

Your landlord is correct. She did NOT have 'a lick of insurance' for YOUR possessions. Renters, if they desire coverage for such situations, are expected to obtain their own insurance coverage for their possessions.

Your landlord's insurance covered only what she owned, and she was properly paid by the insurance carrier for her loss.

Sorry that you had to learn this lesson in a rather expensive manner.