Frequently Asked Questions
I had university-owned property stolen. Do we have insurance for that?
The University is self-insured for the first $1 Million for most property losses. The General Fund underwrites the exposure so that a department will pay no more than $50,000 (or $100,000 water related) per any occurrence. If your loss exceeds $50,000 in value, you should submit a Property Insurance Claim Form with OSU Insurance and file a report with OSU Police.
Please see the Loss Reimbursement Policy before you submit a claim.
Is damage to our space due to a flood, fire, lightning, or other disaster covered by insurance?
The University has insurance for qualifying perils that damage property. There must be damage to a structure or its contents caused by the qualifying peril. Damage from fire, high winds, lightning, and some floods qualify as a peril. There may be other causes of significant damage to property. Contact OSU Insurance (see contact information above) to determine whether you have a qualifying event. Anytime you believe that you may have an event that qualifies for insurance, you should photograph damage and document the event. You should also contact Facilities or your property manager for emergency repairs, cleanup, and restoration. You must keep track of the costs of repairs and associated expenses. You will not be reimbursed for your time or labor.
We are negotiating a contract with an outside party. They are requiring us to have various types and limits of insurance coverage. What should we do?
You must have a representative from Legal Affairs review your agreement. If there are any questions regarding the terms or limits for insurance, Legal Affairs will consult with Risk Management.
When a third party is using Ohio State's property, what insurance is required?
Liability insurance would respond to the damaged caused by the renter or user of our space. The user of our space would find coverage either through an existing policy, this could be through their company liability policy, a related national association, an endorsement to a homeowners policy or purchase of a short term policy such as Tenant User Liability Policy (TULIP).
If I rent a vehicle while traveling on university business, should I obtain the insurance from the rental agency?
When using the university’s contracted agencies (as required by policy for business travel), the optional Loss/Collision Damage Waiver (also known as DW, CDW and LDW) is already included in the rate agreement for business rentals and should be declined. Accepting the Loss/Collision Damage Waiver Option would simply duplicate the negotiated agreement benefits. The Loss/Collision Damage Waiver is included on business rentals only. See additional FAQs regarding vehicle rental at the University’s Travel Website.
I have been asked for a certificate of insurance. What is that and how do I get it?
A certificate of insurance is proof of insurance. It is a document that we provide to an outside party we are contracting with in some manner, to show we have the insurance coverage they require of us. It can be obtained by requesting it from insurance@osu.edu or phone 614-247-8840. For information please see the Certificates of Insurance PDF.