As many college students return to campuses across Michigan — some in dorms and others in off-campus housing —the Insurance Alliance of Michigan is encouraging them to protect their belongings with renters insurance.
“Renters insurance is often overlooked by college students, but it’s a great way to insure your belongings, regardless of where you are living,” said Erin McDonough, executive director of the Insurance Alliance of Michigan. “Renters insurance is usually just a few dollars a month — about the same as a cup of coffee — and that’s a small price to pay to protect expensive items like TVs, laptops or smartphones.”
A parent’s homeowners insurance policy may cover their child’s belongings if they live in a dorm room. However, it likely won’t extend to off-campus housing, which many students find themselves in this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Parents should check with their insurance agent to find out what is covered under their homeowners insurance policy and if college students need renters insurance.
“Insurance companies and their agents are there to answer the call – day or night – to tackle everything from routine claims to disasters, and we encourage policyholders to reach out to their insurance company or agent with any and all questions,” McDonough said. “We are proud to support our member companies as they protect families, homes, businesses – and belongings.”
Some landlords require students to have renters insurance before signing a lease, so it’s important to read the fine print on any lease.
Whether students are covered through a homeowners policy or renters insurance, they should have a list of all their belongings, including purchase price, model numbers and serial numbers. Photos or video footage will also be sufficient.