Insurance Tips for Post-Secondary Students

Sending your child off to college or university is an exciting milestone. Whether they’re moving into residence, renting their first apartment, or commuting from home, it’s a good time to review how their living situation may affect your insurance coverage.

Many students take valuable belongings with them to school, such as laptops, phones, tablets, and gaming systems. In some cases, these items may still be covered under a parent or guardian’s home insurance policy, even if the student is living in residence. However, coverage limits can apply to certain types of property, so it’s worth confirming what is protected.

Living in Residence or Renting

If your child is living in residence, their belongings may continue to be covered under your home insurance policy, depending on the insurer and their living arrangement. If they’re renting an apartment or house off campus, tenant insurance may be recommended. Tenant insurance can help protect their belongings from risks such as fire, theft, or water damage, and it typically includes liability coverage as well.

Liability coverage is important because it helps protect your child if they accidentally cause damage to someone else’s property or if someone is injured while visiting their space.

Bringing a Vehicle to School

If your child plans to bring a vehicle with them while attending school, their auto insurance policy may need to be updated. Moving to a different city, parking on campus, or changing how often the vehicle is driven can all affect coverage.

It’s a good idea to let your broker know if your child will be living away from home during the school year so your policy details can be reviewed.

Travel & Health Insurance

If your child is attending school outside the Maritimes or travelling during the school year, it’s also worth reviewing their travel or medical insurance coverage. Provincial health plans may not cover all medical costs outside your home province or internationally, so additional travel medical insurance may be recommended.

Post-secondary school often brings new responsibilities and living arrangements. Taking a few minutes to review your insurance coverage can help ensure your child’s belongings, vehicle, and liability protection are in place while they focus on their education.