Students risk learning the hard way on theft

Thousands of students are heading off to university this month, but amongst all the excitement, they should spare a thought for their belongings, as halls of residence and flats can be an easy target for crime.

Direct Line has found that the most common items stolen are those which are easily portable, such as laptops, stereos, portable music players, and other entertainment devices and accessories, all of which are commonly kept in university accommodation. Many students may assume that landlords or halls of residence will cover any losses if there is a burglary, but they could be in for a shock to find that they need contents cover to protect their own possessions.

The easiest way for students to have their possessions covered should they be lost or stolen is to have them covered as part of their parents' home insurance policy. If their parents have home insurance with Direct Line, students can take up to £5,000 worth of their possessions with them to university and benefit from the full cover of their parents' home contents policy.

Andrew Lowe, Head of Direct Line Home Insurance, said: "Students' minds will understandably be on freshers week and the start of term, plus the prospect of living on their own for the first time. But they should also consider what would happen if their possessions were lost or stolen, and speak to their parents to see if they can save some of their loan money by including the items they've taken to university on their parents' home insurance policy."