Why TRU Students Renting Off Campus Housing Need Insurance

Tru off campus housing

Why TRU Students Renting Off Campus Housing Need Insurance

Off campus housing is good choice for TRU students who want the independence, freedom and privacy that Thompson Rivers University housing cannot provide. Regardless of whether you rent an apartment or home off-campus, or live in TRU residences, you’ll want to protect your valuables from theft by getting renters insurance (also known as tenant insurance).

Renters often make false assumptions about insurance, including the following:

  • The landlord’s insurance will cover theft or property damage to the tenant’s property
  • Renters insurance is too expensive. In reality, it can cost as little as $10-15/month
  • Insurance isn’t worth it because the student doesn’t have enough possessions to insure.
    The cost of laptops, cell phones and other electronics, books and other belongings adds up. In addition, tenant insurance policies usually have personal liability coverage in case you cause inadvertent damage to the property or injury to someone visiting or living in your home.

For more information about renters insurance read “Insuring the Contents of Your Kamloops Apartment”.

On-Campus Crime is a Problem

University campuses are notorious for burglaries and thefts. According to the U.S. National Centre of Education Statistics “College crime fast facts”, in 2020 there were over 6,800 burglaries (32% of reported on-campus crimes), 2,500 motor vehicle thefts (12% of reported on campus crimes), and 500 robberies (2% of reported on campus-crime).

While national Canadian dorm crime stats can’t be found online, the same problem exists in Canada. For example, University of Victoria Campus Security crime stats reports that in 2019, there were 168 thefts, 111 instances of property damage, and 19 break and enters reported on campus. While we can’t find crime statistics specific to Thompson Rivers University housing, it’s a safe bet that TRU is not immune to crime. In February 2023, Castanet Kamloops reported that TRU officials were adding more security patrols and cameras because of an increase in TRU on-campus crime.

Fact: If you live in TRU housing, you are required to have property and liability insurance.

Recommendation: If you live off campus, check with your insurance broker to confirm that the renters insurance they sell will cover your personal belongings if stolen, whether you are at home or not. Typically it does, but always confirm.

TRU Off-Campus Housing Insurance

TRU students living in off-campus housing in Kamloops have even more reason to consider tenant insurance. While there are many benefits to living off campus, your home is still at risk for break-ins, theft and personal liability claims. Theft and burglaries happen in all cities. The number of incidents ebbs and flows, but nobody is immune. In 2023, Kamlooops RCMP first quarter crime statistics showed property crime had increased by 23% compared to the prior year.

Rent Secure Off Campus Housing at McGill Ridge

McGill Ridge Kamloops apartment community is comprised of four rental apartment buildings that are located just steps from Thompson Rivers University. You can walk to campus in just minutes. If you’re looking for off-campus housing near TRU, you can’t get any closer to TRU than McGill Ridge.

Our apartments feature the latest in security, including video surveillance monitoring and FOB-key only access. Each apartment includes plank flooring, in-suite washer-dryer, and stainless steel appliances. Building amenities include a fitness room, personal storage locker, bike storage, and a picnic area with a barbecue.

If you’d’ like to rent at McGill Ridge, complete our Check Apartment Availability form. A representative will contact you with next steps.