You have a child going off to college, should they have renters insurance? Typically if your child is staying in a dorm, there is not a need for renters insurance. A parents homeowners insurance policy will provide some coverage for students away at school. For most home insurance policies there is a 5 to 10 percent limit of your personal property that applies to items outside of the home. This would include a dorm room, off campus apartment or a storage unit. Keep in mind that there could be some limitations when it comes to theft.
What about liability?
There could be some coverage for your student for liability as well. As long as your child is still a permanent resident of your home. Keep in mind if your child uses their college address as their permanent address the extension of your homeowners policy would be voided. This would mean that your college student should have renters insurance.
Do I need a renters policy for my child?
It depends. If you child changes their address to their college apartment it is a good idea to get them a renters policy. Your homewners policy will cover your child for liability and 10 percent of your personal property amount if they are still using your home address. The college apartment that your child is staying however, may require a renters policy. If you want to seperate your child’s exposure while at college from your own a renters policy would be a good choice as well.
What if I have other questions about my insurance?
We are availabe at 412-344-2800. You can also reach us with your insurance questions via our client center on your website found here. We are also available on social media. Currently we are on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. We hope that everyone has a great back to school season.
