Protecting Yourself with Help from Hannon-Murphy Insurance

When a large fire in Amherst displaced more than 200 college students, many lost almost everything they owned: laptops, passports, IDs, clothes, furniture, and more. Events like this raise an important question for families: Does a parent’s homeowner’s insurance cover a college student’s belongings?

The honest answer is: sometimes — but not always. And the rules can be confusing, even for long time insurance agents.

Many students rent off-campus apartments, and most leases recommend buying renters insurance. But many students skip it, thinking their parents’ policy will cover them. Unfortunately, that’s not always true.

When Parents’ Home Insurance Works — and When It Doesn’t

Homeowner policies only cover students if they still count as an “insured.” This usually requires the student to be under a certain age, enrolled full-time, and still considered a resident of the parent’s home.

But here’s the problem:

Even if a student does qualify, parents’ insurance usually covers only 10% of the personal property limit for belongings kept away from home. For many students, that might be just $10,000 — nowhere near enough to replace electronics, clothing, textbooks, and furniture.

Worse, hotel and meal costs are usually not covered because the apartment is not the “residence premises” listed on the parents’ policy.

Why Students Need Their Own Renters Insurance

The Amherst fire is a powerful reminder: Off-campus students need their own HO-4 renters policy. It’s affordable, protects their belongings, and provides personal liability coverage that parents’ insurance may not extend. Most policies are under $300 a year.

Protect Your Student Today

If your child rents an apartment — even for one semester — don’t wait for a disaster. Reach out to Hannon-Murphy Insurance to get the right renters insurance policy and the peace of mind your family deserves.

At Hannon-Murphy Insurance, we’re here for you.