Do College Students Need Renters Insurance?

If your child is heading off to college or changing their student housing, there’s a lot to think about. You might be helping to arrange the move, shopping for supplies and figuring out logistics.

Don’t forget to make sure their belongings are protected in their new home. After all, they probably have a laptop and phone, clothing and personal items, and at least a few pieces of furniture. If something were to happen, replacing electronics, clothing, furniture and school supplies can add up quickly.

To see the big picture, connect with an agent at Farm Bureau to review your insurance policies and make sure you and your children have the coverage you need. 

College Dorm Renters Insurance

If you have a homeowners insurance policy, your student’s belongings in a dorm or on-campus housing may be covered on your policy, depending on your coverage. It’s a good idea to confirm this with your insurance agent and check on exactly what’s covered. 

As you and your student build college shopping and packing lists, create an inventory of their belongings, with receipts and photos if possible. That way, if anything happens, you’ll have documentation if you need to file a claim.

You may also want to ask your agent whether residential equipment breakdown insurance could help protect eligible electronics, like laptops, tablets and cell phones, from mechanical or electrical breakdown.

Off-Campus Housing Renters Insurance

If your child lives off campus, it’s important to review whether coverage under your homeowners policy continues to apply or whether renters insurance might be needed. The landlord’s insurance generally protects the property structure itself, not your child’s or any tenants’ belongings. 

Other Reasons to Consider Renters Insurance for College Students

Even if your child lives in a dorm, it may be worth discussing available coverage options with your insurance agent to determine when additional protection makes sense. Renters insurance is usually quite affordable, and along with covering their personal property, it may include:

• Liability insurance: This coverage may help if your child is found responsible when someone is injured in your child’s dorm room or apartment, or if they accidentally damage someone else’s property.
• Living expenses: If your child can’t live in their place after a claim due to a covered loss, renters insurance may help pay some additional living expenses. 

Help Your Student Stay Safe

While renters insurance can give you some peace of mind when your college student is living away from home, it’s best to make sure they know how to avoid accidents and stay safe. Before they move away, explain:

• How to safely use appliances permitted by their housing provider, such as microwaves, kettles, irons, hair dryers and similar devices
• How to use electrical outlets properly by not overloading them and using power strips when appropriate
• That they should unplug appliances and electronics when they are going to be away for an extended period, like during holiday breaks and summer vacations.

Get Protection for Your Family

At Farm Bureau, we understand that sending your child off to college is no small task. Along with renters insurance, you may need to update your auto insurance and make sure they have the right health insurance coverage. Find an agent who can review your policies and make sure you have the coverage you need for your whole family.