Sending Your Child Off to College: Here’s How Your Insurance Coverage Works for Your Student

As your child prepares to leave for college or university this fall, it's important to understand how your insurance policy covers them while they're away.

Does Home Insurance Cover Your Child’s Belongings at School?

Good news! If your child’s primary residence is still listed as your home and they are a full-time student, their belongings are typically covered under your home insurance policy, even when they’re away at college. This means items like their clothes, electronics, and furniture, are protected.

If your child is not financially dependent on you, not attending school full time, or their primary address is not yours (meaning they do not return to your home for school breaks and holidays), they will need tenants insurance to cover their belongings. This ensures their personal property is covered.

Although tenant insurance isn't mandatory in Canada, it can be invaluable in covering unexpected expenses that arise from a covered loss. Additionally, some landlords may require tenants to carry insurance as part of their lease agreement.

What Does Tenants Insurance Include?

Tenant insurance covers:

• Personal Belongings: Loss or damage to items such as electronics, furniture, and clothing.
• Liability: Covers injuries to visitors and property damage.
• Damage to Rented Home: Covers accidental damage to the rental property.

For high-value items like record collections, or artwork, you may need additional coverage. Check with your insurance provider to understand what is and isn’t covered.

Even if their belongings are covered under your home insurance, tenants insurance is crucial for liability protection. Your child might be responsible for damages or injuries if something happens in their rental home, like a visitor getting hurt or accidental damage to the property.

Car Insurance for Students Away at College
If your child will still drive your car while they’re away at school, you should continue to list them on your insurance policy. If they are coming home for holidays and breaks you should be able to list them as an occasional driver on your car insurance policy instead of a primary driver, which can save you money. Some companies offer discounts for students living away from home.

Understanding the insurance needs of your college-bound child can help ensure they’re properly protected during this exciting new chapter of their lives. Contact us today to review your coverage and how it applies to your student!