Fire in Dorm: Covered by School Insurance?

Question

My roommate and I both live in the dorms where we share an apartment together.

We had an accident with a deep fryer today. Oil caught on fire, spread in the kitchen, but we caught it in time to put it out with a fire exstinguisher.

We don't have renter's insurance, but when we moved in the housing office told us that the "building is covered by their insurance."

I'd say there's about a thousand dollars worth of damage in the apartment. Do we have to pay for this, or is it likely that the school's insurance will?

This was a pure accident, and nothing illegal was involved. But, there's still damage, and who would normally pay for it? Pay in minds these are dorms, and what I said about the school having insurance.

Answer 1

I think you have to pay for any of your property was damaged

Answer 2

Your items are most likely covered by your parents Homeowners policy.  The school will get everything repaired but their insurance company may come after you for reimbursement.

Answer 3

The school insurance will pay for the building--- not any damage to your personal property.

However, since the cause of the fire was your negligence - the school's insurance could come back after you for repayment.

If you are in a dorm- not an apartment-- you don't live there year round and your permanent residence is your parents home-- you may be able to get limited coverage under your parent's homeowners policy.  You don't usually purchase renters insurance for a dorm.

Answer 4

the school insurance pays for the damage to the building.  your contents may be covered under your parents homeowners insurance.

Answer 5

u will have to pay for it