In many cases, a standard homeowners insurance policy may provide some coverage for a child’s belongings while they are away at college. However, coverage can depend on where the student lives, how much their belongings are worth, and the specific terms and limits of the homeowners policy.
Before your child heads off to college, it is important to understand what may be covered and whether additional renters or personal property coverage may be appropriate.
1. Are Belongings in a College Dorm Covered?
If your child is living in a college dormitory, their personal belongings may be covered under your homeowners insurance policy while they are away at school.
Coverage for a student living away from home can be subject to special limits, however. These limits may be lower than the personal property coverage available at your home.
Items that may be covered can include:
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Clothing
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Furniture
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Books and school supplies
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Computers and tablets
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Televisions and other electronics
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Other personal belongings
Coverage varies by policy, so it is important to check with your insurance agent before sending expensive items to school.
2. What About an Off-Campus Apartment?
Coverage can be different when a student moves into an off-campus apartment.
Depending on the circumstances and the homeowners policy, a child living in an apartment may not receive the same coverage that would apply while living in a dorm. In some situations, a renters insurance policy may be the better option.
Renters insurance can help protect the student’s belongings while also providing personal liability coverage and additional living expense coverage, depending on the policy.
3. Are Electronics and High-Value Items Covered?
College students often bring expensive electronics to school, including:
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Laptops
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Tablets
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Smartphones
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Gaming systems
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Cameras
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Musical instruments
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Bicycles
While these items may be covered, special limits or exclusions may apply to certain types of property. A homeowners policy may also have specific limits for valuable items such as jewelry, collectibles, or specialized equipment.
If your child is bringing expensive belongings to college, consider reviewing their value with your insurance agent to determine whether additional coverage is needed.
4. When Should You Consider Renters Insurance?
Renters insurance can be especially important for students living in off-campus housing. It may provide coverage for personal belongings, personal liability, and additional living expenses following a covered loss.
A landlord’s insurance policy generally covers the building itself, but it typically does not cover the tenant’s personal belongings.
Parents should also review whether their homeowners policy provides coverage for a student living away from home and what conditions or limitations apply.
The Bottom Line
If your child is heading off to college, do not assume that all of their belongings will automatically be fully covered under your homeowners insurance policy. Dorm living, off-campus apartments, personal property limits, and high-value electronics can all affect the coverage available.
Before the semester begins, take an inventory of your child’s belongings and review your homeowners policy to determine whether the existing coverage is sufficient or if renters insurance or additional coverage may be appropriate.
If you have questions about your current coverage or would like to review your policy before your child heads to college, Georgetown Insurance Agency is here to help.
