Protecting your College Student from Property Loss

Preservative measures, safety precautions and proper insurance can offer peace of mind.

Heading off to college is an exciting time for many students, especially those living away from home for the first time.  During this time of year, we receive many questions regarding if your Child's belongings are covered while away at school.

COVERAGE BASICS-WHILE ON CAMPUS

• Students who live in a dorm are covered under their parents’ Homeowners Policy - "Off Premises" coverage, an extension of personal property from your parents’ homeowner's policy.  There may be limitations so be sure you review your insurance policy and check with your agent.

• Students who live off campus are not covered by their parents Homeowners policy-generally speaking, when one enters into a lease of property off campus, a renters policy is required for liability and personal belongings protection.  Separate policies are normally required for each resident.

• Electronic devices (computer, camera, printer & phone)-some carriers will allow to schedule items on a policy.  It also is recommended to check the insurance offered at time of purchase.  

• Taking a vehicle to school-if your college student is not taking a vehicle to school, you may be eligible for a discount on your auto insurance.  Most carriers provide a discount when a child is away for school, 100 miles or more.  

PRE-CAMPUS PRECATUTIONS WITH BELONGS

• Leave valuables at home, when possible-while it may be necessary to bring a computer, sports equipment and specialty items for specific classes, it is advisable to leave things such as valuable jewelry, luxury watches and costly electronics at home.  If there are valuables you must take, consider bringing along a safe to store your items securely inside when not using them.
• Engrave-whenever possible, engrave a name or other identifying information on computers, televisions, phones, and any other electronic devices.

• Have a dorm inventory-making a detailed inventory of all the items taken with them to school will help settle a claim faster in the event of a theft, fire, or other type of disasters.

GUARDING AGAINST THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY

• Do not leave belongings unattended-the primary places where theft occurs on campus are libraries, dining halls and classrooms.  Keep your bookbags, purses, and laptops with you always.

• Lock dorm room doors and keep keys on your person-Working with your roommate, be sure that you are always locked up.  Know that most dorm thefts occur during the day.

• Use a Laptop lock kit-this device works just like a bicycle chain would do and often is a deterrent for theft.

• Be aware of fire hazards-most campus fires are cooking related so be careful about hotplates, microwaves, and stoves.  In your dorm, be sure to use power strips safely as improper use or overloading will cause fire.

• Exit Plan-this may seem elementary, but a "get out in the event of emergency", an exit plan should be a thought in your mind when inside any building.  Be aware of fire escapes, windows and exits in the event of an emergency.  This is especially important in the building where you sleep.  If a 2nd or higher building that does not have a fire escape, consider buying a window ladder.  This could prevent injury of even death in the event of a serious fire where your only exit is the window.

This is an exciting time for our young adults; however, we do have to be sure they are SAFE FIRST!