Living in the dorms is part of the college experience. As a homeowner, you know that having home insurance is vital for protecting the house and everything in it, so it’s only natural to wonder if your student needs renters insurance while living in the dorm. Here’s what you need to know.

Homeowners Insurance May Cover Your Child

Even though your child is no longer living in your house, most homeowners coverage will extend to the belongings in their dorm. However, you will want to make sure they’re listed as a dependent with the insurance agency. Their items will also be subject to the same policy limitations you have for your home, so you may want to reduce your deductible to account for the increased risk of shared spaces.

What Happens If They’re Not Covered

Some policies offer limited off-site coverage amounts, leaving your child virtually unprotected while they’re living in the dorms. If this is the case, speak with your child’s school. Request to see their Clery report, which should outline the statistics of crimes reported on campus within the last year. This will help you assess the risk and decide whether or not a renters insurance policy is in your child’s best interest.

If you do need additional coverage to protect your college-bound child while they live in the dorms, your insurance agent will be able to find the right policy. Some agencies offer dorm-specific renters insurance tailored specifically to the unique concerns your student may face while living in shared housing.

Worried about finding renters insurance for your student before they leave for the dorms? Contact Arlene Lear Insurance in Bolivar, MO. Their dedicated agents have helped residents find the right coverage for their needs, whether they’re worried about the limits of their homeowners insurance or need an auto policy for a new car. Learn more about their services online, and call (417) 777-3000 to request a free quote.