The University purchases insurance to protect against damage to, or the theft of, University property, including fine arts and rare books. The University’s coverage does not extend to personal property (that is not owned by the University), whether on campus or in campus-owned buildings.
Please refer to the Insurance Claim Management page on how to report a claim.
Personal Property
The University does not cover personal property that is lost, stolen, or damaged during a business trip or while on campus. Contact your homeowner’s, renter’s, or auto insurance carrier for possible reimbursement for personal property loss, theft, or damage.
Required and Optional Coverages
University Dormitories: If you are an undergraduate living in a University dormitory, you are encouraged, but not required, to purchase personal property insurance.
University Rentals: If you live in a University rental apartment or house, you are required to maintain personal property protection (renter’s insurance).
Pets: If you own a pet, you must also maintain personal liability coverage of at least $500,000.
Visit the Housing and Real Estate Services website for more information about these requirements, as well as information about how to secure coverage.
University-Owned Property
The University’s property insurance covers loss of building, contents, equipment, and the property of others placed in the University’s care, custody, and control. Insurance reimbursement for losses of University-owned property is based on the repair or replacement cost with property of like kind and quality. If the property cannot be repaired or replaced, then the loss will be reimbursed at the depreciated cash value. Under certain circumstances, departments may be charged a deductible of $1,000 for losses. In order to provide reimbursement for property that cannot be repaired, Risk Management may be required to turn over the damaged item to the insurance company. Do not discard of any damaged items until approved by Risk Management, unless keeping the item would present a health hazard or imminent danger to people or other property.
Property Not Owned by the University
The University’s property insurance will provide coverage for property owned by others if the University has assumed liability by way of a written contract or agreement. Departments should notify Risk Management before the initiation of contracts or agreements in which the University is required to assume property coverage for the non-owned property.