School days will be here again before you know it, and if you are the parent of a college student, you might be facing the pressure to give your blessing to off-campus housing for the coming semester.

 Living off campus might bring your child closer to independent living, but it doesn't mean there won’t be growing pains along the way. Paying rental and utility bills, dealing with landlords and sharing space with housemates can all be tricky adjustments.

With all these changing factors to contend with along with the challenges of student life, the last thing you and your child need to worry about is if their personal belongings will be safe.

As a parent, you may assume that your homeowners policy will cover your children when they’re away at college. Some homeowners policies do cover children living on campus, but that isn't always the case.

David Hodge, vice president of insurance at AAA Western and Central New York, recommends reviewing your current homeowners policy with a licensed insurance agent before your child moves into their new living space. If they need additional coverage, renters insurance may be the answer.

Renters insurance typically covers personal possessions in the event of vandalism, theft, fire, smoke damage, lightning damage or windstorm or water damage, Hodge says.

“A licensed insurance agent can walk you through what is covered by renters insurance to make sure your child's valuables are protected,” Hodge says. Luckily, renters insurance is very affordable. It’s not uncommon to secure a $10,000 policy for about $10 a month.

Renters insurance is easy to apply for. Your insurance agent will want you to provide identification and personal information from the renter. You may have to provide details about the space that's being rented and if there will be pets and housemates.

You may also be asked to provide proof of belongings. Receipts from major purchases can help with this process, along with photos of items that you want to have covered by the renters insurance policy.

Items that college students may want to report on a renters insurance agreement include laptops, game consoles and TVs, Hodge says. If you need to file a claim, simply contact a licensed insurance agent, who will start the process for you.

“AAA agents are available at every AAA branch location to review your current coverage and help you determine if renters insurance is the right choice for your child,” Hodge said.

Do you have questions about renters insurance? Contact a AAA agent today!

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