I’m worried about making sure my laptop is kept safe

BREAK-INS are commonplace in student houses since thieves are drawn by the promise of expensive smartphones and laptops.

The average value of a student’s belongings is £3,500, according to the Association of British Insurers.

Burglaries are less likely in halls of residence which are typically more secure. Often, universities will provide insurance for people living in their accommodation, although it may be limited. Alternatively you may be covered under your parents’ home contents insurance.

This is the case for Hannah Tarling, who is about to travel from the family home in Lewisham, South-East London, to read history and politics at the University of Manchester. The 18-yearold completed an International Baccalaureate. Hannah says: ‘My biggest concern is my laptop as I will be using it all the time to take notes in lectures.’ Her parents’ home insurance policy protects her possessions – but they are unsure whether her phone and laptop are covered while she is out and about. These policies do not always cover gadgets away from home, in which case Hannah will need a standalone policy.

Such deals can be bought from companies including Protect Your Bubble, which charges from £6.99 a month, and specialist student insurer Endsleigh. Hannah says she is good at looking after her property but will take up any offer to have security markings added by police.