Laptop Damage in Schools

 

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Statistics

It goes without saying that laptops are easily damaged, especially in the hands of school students. Here are some statistics:

 

• Protecsure has insured over 76,000 school laptops in the last 8 years. 
• This has resulted in around 29,000 claims
• More than 90% of claims were for accidental damage (AD). 
• On average 34% of insured laptops suffered an AD claim during the life of
  the policy. 
• Based on over 100 schools around Australia the worst school is 8 times more likely to claim on a laptop policy than the best school. 
• Multiple claims from individual students are on the increase.
• The frequency of AD claims has increased substantially in the last few years.
• The average AD claim is around $650
• Screen costs are a major factor - the cost of a replacement screen varies between $300 and $1200 depending on manufacturer
  

 

Causes of Damage

The most common causes of damage to laptops are as follows:

 

1. Dropping while carrying
2. Tripping over cables causing the laptop to fall on the floor
3. Liquid spills
4. Items left on keyboard when lid closed

  

But there are ways to minimise these risks. Here are a few ideas to help you protect your laptop.

 

Preventing Accidental Damage

We deal with over 3,500 claims every year - based on our experience here are some tips to prevent accidental damage:

 

1. Always close your laptop when carrying it. It is really easy to damage the screen if the laptop is dropped while open.
2. If carrying the laptop any distance, make sure you use the carry bag as this will offer protection in case of dropping or knocking.
3. Never run with your laptop.
4. When the laptop is at a table or on a desk, always ensure the cables are well out of the way to avoid tripping.
5. Think twice before you shut the screen. It's easy to leave pens etc on the keyboard and these can create significant damage to the screen.
6. Don't drink anywhere near a laptop. Liquid spills can lead to large repair/replacement bills.

  

Insurance

Of course, accidents happen and laptops are also susceptible to theft. It is estimated that a laptop is stolen every 10 minutes in Australia (see separate ‘theft" brochure on our website).

 

You can protect yourself from unforeseen costs due to accidental damage and theft by taking out an Protecsure policy. Check out the Protecsure website for details and on-line quotes.