Back-to-School Insurance Checklist: Is Your Family Ready?

Back-to-school season is full of to-do lists. From buying school supplies and new clothes to organizing schedules and packing lunches, there's a lot to think about before the first day.

While insurance may not be at the top of your list, this time of year is a great opportunity to make sure your coverage keeps up with your family's changing needs.

So, whether you're sending a child off to college, handing the keys to a new driver or investing in a new laptop for the school year, here are a few insurance items worth checking off your list.

Is your teen driver properly covered?

For many families, back-to-school may mean there’s a new driver behind the wheel heading to school, sports practices or after-school activities on their own.

Adding a teen driver to your auto insurance policy is an important step to take before they’re given those coveted keys. And while teen drivers often mean higher insurance premiums, due to their limited driving experience, making sure they have the right coverage can help protect both them and your family.

As you review your policy, consider asking your trusted Rockingham Insurance agent:

• Does my current coverage provide enough liability protection?
• What discounts are available for good students or enrolling in driver’s education courses?
• Should I adjust my deductible or coverage limits?

It's also a good time to talk with your teen about safe driving habits, including avoiding distractions, obeying speed limits and never texting while driving.

Are laptops and other devices covered?

Today's students rely on technology more than ever before. Laptops, tablets, headphones and other electronics are often essential for completing assignments and staying connected throughout the school year.

Many homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for personal belongings, including electronics, if they're damaged or stolen due to a covered loss. However, coverage limits, deductibles and exclusions can vary by policy.

If your family recently purchased expensive devices for school, now is a good time to review your policy and understand what's covered and what's not . Keeping receipts and documenting high-value items can also make the claims process easier if something unexpected happens.

Heading off to college? Don't forget renters insurance.

While moving into a dorm or apartment comes with plenty of excitement, the milestone also comes with a long checklist of things to bring, and insurance should definitely be on that list.

In some cases, a homeowners insurance policy may provide limited coverage for a student's personal belongings while they're living in a college residence hall. Students living off-campus, however, should consider a renters insurance policy to help protect their belongings.

Renters insurance can also provide valuable liability coverage if someone is injured in the student's rental home or apartment, or if the student accidentally causes damage to someone else's property.

If your child is leaving for college, ask your insurance agent what coverage already exists and whether renters insurance is the right fit for their living situation.

A few minutes now can provide peace of mind all year

As your family's routines change, your insurance needs may change, too.

Before the school year begins, take a few minutes to:

• Review your auto insurance if you have a new teen driver.
• Understand how your homeowners policy covers laptops and other electronics.
• Determine whether your college student needs renters insurance.
• Contact your local Rockingham Insurance agent with any questions or life changes that could affect your coverage.

Back-to-school season is about preparing for a successful year ahead. Making sure your insurance coverage reflects your family's current needs can help you start the school year with greater confidence and peace of mind.

If you're unsure whether your current policies provide the protection your family needs, your local Rockingham Insurance agent is here to help. Together, you can review your coverage, answer any questions and make sure you're ready for whatever the school year brings.

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