Private schools in Texas have a reputation for excellence—excellent curriculums, close-knit communities, and campuses designed to inspire learning from the children they serve. Each school has its own personality and takes care of a precious population. For many Texas parents, the classrooms and campuses are seen as a source of hope and calm for their children.
If you are an administrator of one of these campuses, you likely realize that through the course of a day there will be a broad range of emotions, challenges, and successes. With a focus on helping teachers and students find success, you may not be allocating ample time to all of the potential risks that could derail long term plans for the school. many schools, whether a public school or private one, face a significant challenge right now. Securing the right commercial property insurance policy has become a nightmare for many.
The process isn’t always straightforward. Insurance companies see risks where administrators see opportunity, and the unique nature of Texas private schools often complicates the process is obtaining the right types of coverage. So, why is property insurance such a challenge for Texas private schools, and what can school leaders do to secure the coverage they need? We are glad you asked!
No matter where you live in Texas, there are a few reasons why private school insurance coverage becomes more difficult with each passing year.
Private school campuses are anything but ordinary. From high-tech labs and performing arts centers to expansive athletic facilities, these campuses are designed to foster growth and creativity. Many of these school properties have been built in the last 15 years, which has allowed for increased high-tech equipment throughout the campuses.
Unfortunately, some insurance carriers view these specialized spaces as risks. Unique or non-standard buildings cost more to repair or replace, especially when that high-tech equipment is involved. As a result, these spaces are harder to insure even though they are fantastic at educating children. Customized facilities often require customized policies, which can drive up insurance costs or complicate essential coverage options.
Living in Texas means dealing with extreme weather—hurricanes on the Gulf Coast, hailstorms all across Texas, and tornados in the Panhandle and across North Texas. These natural disasters pose significant risks to property owners, and the insurance companies know it all too well after the glut of claims the last five years.
For private schools with large roof space for these storms to impact, this means higher insurance costs or limited availability of property coverage. Campuses located in high-risk areas like Ft Worth are especially prone to restrictions. Schools must plan for worst-case scenarios, from storm damage to flood recovery.
While we mentioned those shiny new campuses that many schools have built in the last 15 years, the opposite problem is also true. Many private schools that have been around a while operate out of older buildings, which often carry historical significance and charm. But with charm comes challenges. Outdated systems—such as wiring, plumbing, and roofs—pose risks that modern insurers may hesitate to cover.
Don't be shocked if your insurer requires costly upgrades before offering or renewing coverage. While it may seem like they are just being difficult, it is basic risk management for them to offer you the specialized coverages that your property needs.
Private schools are more than buildings—they’re hubs of activity, with students, staff, and visitors moving through every day. While this doesn’t directly affect property insurance, the increased operational complexity often translates into a need for additional coverage, creating a more challenging insurance landscape. This important liability coverage will add to your insurance costs, but also make sure that you have the comprehensive coverage that your students, teachers, and administrators need.
Now that you have a handle on why it is so difficult to broad coverage for your school property, the conversation should always turn to how to secure the coverage types that your school needs. Since all private schools are different, having a specialized insurance policy that is customized to your unique profile is more important than having a piece of paper with the word insurance on top of it.
The first step to overcoming these challenges is working with an independent insurance agent who specializes in Texas private schools. We may be biased, but it also makes sense for them to live here given how unique our state is when viewed by an outsider. A general school insurance policy isn’t enough. You need to work with an expert who understands the unique risks and requirements of educational institutions and can craft a customized plan to protect your campus.
A well-maintained campus is a safer campus—and safer properties are easier and less costly to insure. Three items to prioritize are not surprising.
These proactive steps demonstrate to insurers that your school is committed to reducing risk, which can lead to more favorable rates. It also shows parents that you are operating with the safety of their children at the front of your plans.
As time marches on, maintenance and repairs happen. It is a way of life. Comprehensive documentation of these events is key when applying for property insurance. Many insurance companies now require an inspection at the start of a policy term. Being prepared to provide some of the following items will make that process go smoother.
This transparency helps insurers assess your property accurately, making it easier to secure appropriate coverage. And the less surprises that come during an inspection, the less surprises you will have insurance costs.
Your first step in finding comprehensive coverage for your school is to locate a school insurance expert who is experienced in Texas private schools. This type of private school insurance agent will help guide you through the process of securing the customized coverage that you need based on your school's unique programs and risk characteristics.
Once they have discovered property and liability risks that you possess, they will begin to work with insurance companies who specialize in private school insurance for Texans. This process will help you understand the financial risks that you face and how protection can be secured for not only now, but in the future as well.
If your school is struggling to find affordable coverage, an expert can help you consider tackling risk reduction in phases. They will help you focus on the most critical upgrades first—such as replacing an aging roof so that you can revisit your insurance options later.
The agents at Insurance For Texans will help you with their proprietary program called True Texas Education Insurance. This program works with daycares, Montessori schools, and private schools all across Texas. They will help you match the right specialized coverage to your needs to help ease financial burdens that come with coverage today.
Click the button below to speak with one of our private school experts now, so that you can secure your school's future.