Student Insurance Considerations

Student Insurance Considerations

Regardless of whether you are just embarking on student life or have started studying already, taking care of your personal possessions will always be important.

Statistically, students are one of the most likely groups to fall victim to crime so taking preventative measures is the best way of making sure you do not become one of the crime statistics.

Students are a likely target for would-be burglars because they own more expensive consumer goods per head than the rest of the population. Within the United Kingdom 1 in 3 students becomes the victim of a crime each year. Vehicle related theft and house burglary are two of the most common types of crime for students to fall victim to.

The good news is that by taking a few simple precautions you can help to make sure your possessions stay safe and sound.

When it comes to house burglaries the most common ways for a thief to gain access to your property is through a door or window that has been left open so always remember to lock up whenever you go out and use deadbolts if you have them. You may want to install window locks to be extra careful.

If you live in halls of residence then take care when coming and going as burglars can craftily slip in behind anyone entering the building. Be wary of whom you let into the building and if your buzzer rings make sure the visitor identifies themselves.

Halls of residence may have locks on individual bedroom doors so if you have a lock on your door make sure you always use it, even if you are only going down the corridor.

If you are out and about at night time then try to stick with your group of friends and if travelling home alone than catch a cab - your safety is worth much more than the fare home.

It doesn't matter how careful you are, the unexpected can still happen so it is essential to have an insurance policy in place. Shop around to find the best policy available and remember to compare different policies like for like.

It is worth looking out for standard contents cover which protects your possessions whether you live in halls of residence, a shared house or a student flat. Cover against walk in theft is ideal and some insurance policies will also cover any property of the university you have on loan, for example books from the library.

When shopping for student insurance you might want additional cover which protects laptops and portable computer equipment. Some student insurance providers also offer course fees cover which offers protection in case you have to de-register from your course due to death, accident or illness of you or a parent/guardian financially supporting you.

Other points to look out for include mobile telephone cover, accidental damage cover and vacation cover. The latter is useful if you do not plan to stay in your student accommodation during holiday seasons.