Burglars busiest during university o'week
Our State Insurance team in New Zealand is reminding university students to be extra cautious during O'week as new claims data reveals an increase in theft.
New research from our New Zealand insurer, State Insurance has found Orientation week is the busiest week of the year for student-related claims. The latest claims data* shows a significant spike (26.9%) in burglary and theft claims during orientation weeks with the top items targeted by thieves including bikes (22.7% of claims), followed by phones (16%) and laptops (10.7%).
With Kiwi students flocking back to campuses across the country, State's Executive General Manager, Claims, Wayne Tippet said the latest data is a timely reminder of the importance of being aware of personal possessions during the buzz of the first week of university.
"O'week is one of the best weeks of the year for university students, but unfortunately, there is a clear spike in theft related claims during those two weeks. We're here to help support students if they need to make a claim, but we'd also encourage students to lock things up and be aware, so they can hopefully avoid the inconvenience and distress of losing a special item."
O'week is one of the best weeks of the year for university students, but unfortunately, there is a clear spike in theft related claims during those two weeks.Wayne Tippet
State Insurance, Executive General Manager, Claims
"Students may be covered already if their parents have contents insurance with State, but we'd recommend people check their policies to be sure, and if they have a particularly special item, to make sure that's specified on the policy," said Mr Tippet.
Starting a new degree can be overwhelming but there are some steps students can take to ensure their belongings are kept safe including:
• For bicycles, use a strong chain and lock or purpose-built bike security device.
• If you store your bike in a shed or garage, make sure it's locked.
• Don't leave your bike propped up on the front porch.
• Keep a record of your bike's frame number.
• For all items, keep relevant receipts, warranties, valuations and serial numbers in a safe place.
• Always lock things away, and don't leave bags or other items unattended.
• At home, keep doors, windows and side gates locked, and items out of sight.
The research results also found the top three Kiwi universities for claims is Auckland University & AUT (26.5%), University of Canterbury (24.3%) and Victoria university of Wellington (21%).
*Based across all IAG NZ brands between 1 January 2019 - 31 December 2021.
