7 Tips for Students Heading off to College

College is expensive enough without the added cost of unexpected accidents or theft, not covered by your insurance policy. To help get the most out of your coverage, below are 7 tips for students heading off to college:

HOMEOWNERS (varies by state)

• Personal Property: Most homeowners policies will cover personal property for up to 10% of your total policy while your child is residing at school (a $100,000 policy equals $10,000 in coverage). Not all types of damage are covered, so read your policy carefully. Some items such as jewelry or expensive electronics, require special coverage. Renters insurance is strongly recommended.
• Liability Coverage: General damage to a dorm room or apartment is not usually covered.
• Documentation: It is a good idea to create an inventory of the items your child is taking to school.  Use photographs and keep receipts.

AUTO (varies by state)

• Student’s Car is Home: If you keep your child listed on your auto policy, it is often wise for several reasons: 1) Possible coverage if the student is hit as a pedestrian by another auto.  2) If they drive your car while at home on school breaks.  3) No lapse in coverage when they spin off onto their own policy, etc.
• Student’s Car is at School: Make sure to notify us if your child will be taking a car away to school. In most cases, if the car is registered to you and listed on your policy, it will be covered.   We advise parents to instruct their students to not give permission for their friends to drive student’s auto, except when it is an emergency.  Remember- “Lend your car, lend your insurance.”
• Driving a Friend’s Car: Students are generally covered if they are listed on their parent’s policy and are not regularly using the vehicle. The coverage would be secondary.  The insurance for the friend’s vehicle would be the primary coverage.
• Discounts: A full-time student meeting certain academic requirements may qualify for a “Good Student Discount”. Distant student discounts may also be available. Drivers under 21 who have completed “Behind the Wheel” driver’s education may also get a discount.

Before your child leaves for school, call Berkshire Insurance Services at 610-413-9880 or e-mail us at info@berkshireinsuranceservices.com. We can walk you through the steps to ensure you have the right coverage. We’re here to help!