As summer winds down and routines shift back into the rhythm of school days, it’s a season of fresh starts—not just for students, but for families, too. Whether your kids are heading off to elementary school with new backpacks or to college with packed cars, this time of year is the perfect reminder to check in on your personal insurance coverage.
And even if you don’t have a college student in your household, these tips may be helpful to friends or family who do—feel free to share this checklist with them.
1. Protecting Your College Student
When a child heads off to college, their belongings often travel with them—laptops, furniture, and other valuables. Did you know those items may already be covered under your homeowner’s insurance? In some cases, though, limits and conditions apply. For example:
- Dorm life: Personal property may still be protected under your policy.
- Off-campus housing: A separate renter’s policy may be needed to cover belongings and liability.
- Electronics & valuables: High-value items like laptops, tablets, or bikes may have coverage limits. A renter’s policy or scheduled personal property endorsement can provide extra protection in case of theft, loss, or damage.
It’s also worth considering auto insurance updates if your student brings a car to campus (or if they’re leaving one at home). Adjusting coverage can often save money while ensuring the right protection.
2. School-Year Driving Reminders
Back to school means more traffic, new drivers, and busy drop-off lines. If you have a teen driver in the house, now’s the time to review your auto policy to make sure liability coverage is strong enough. Accidents can be costly, and the right protection brings peace of mind.
And here’s a bonus tip: many insurance carriers offer discounts for students who maintain good grades, typically a “B” average or higher. If you haven’t checked into this already, let us know—we may be able to apply a Good Student Discount to your policy and put some money back in your pocket.
3. Everyday Family Coverage Check-In
With new routines and schedules, life can feel hectic. But a quick review of your insurance is an easy way to keep your family protected:
- Update your home inventory if you purchased electronics or furniture for the school year.
- Make sure life insurance and health insurance beneficiaries are up to date.
- Ask us about other potential discounts, from safe driver savings to bundling home and auto.
Moving Forward With Confidence
At Van Wyk, we believe insurance should help families feel secure, so you can focus on what matters most. Back-to-school season is more than a return to routine—it’s a chance to make sure your coverage grows with your family.
If you’d like us to review your policies or talk through coverage for your college student, we’re here to help.