You’ve probably heard it all too often: I spilled a drink on my MacBook; my brother stepped on my iPad; I dropped my Chromebook getting onto the bus. With school devices regularly transported between home and school settings, accidents are bound to happen in the process. K-12 accidental damage protection can help offset the cost of repair.
What is K-12 Accidental Damage Protection?
Accidental damage protection is coverage against damage for K-12 devices. While its scope may vary between providers, it can be in the form of an extended warranty from the manufacturer or provided through a third-party partner. It is generally purchased in addition to the standard one-year limited manufacturer’s warranty.
What is covered in K-12 Accidental Damage Protection?
What is covered is dependent on the plan and provider.
Extended warranties or accidental damage protection plans offer deeper coverage. However, depending on the provider, you may be required to pay a deductible. This means you will still incur out-of-pocket repair expenses, until your deductible is paid. Some providers may also limit the number of repairs during the plan term. Claim processes can sometimes be complicated because of these constraints. Barriers such as these can actually discourage schools from actually using their protection plans.
Is K-12 Accidental Damage Protection Worth It?
Generally, yes. Protection plans are always a good idea when devices are expensive, repair costs are high, or devices have a high risk of being damaged. While some student devices have become more affordable, they are absolutely at the mercy of their student users and repair costs can be high. For example, the cost to repair the screen glass and LCD on an iPad 8 is $239. That’s practically the cost of the device!*
The caveat lies in the type of coverage you choose. While some plans appear to save you money, they can do just the opposite. Deductibles, limiting the number of repairs, and shipping fees can drive your overall cost of repairs up. Suddenly, something that was supposed to save your district money turns into a money pit. Throw in a complicated claims and approval processes and that is perfect recipe for a headache and unneeded frustration.
However, opting to forgo coverage is also a serious risk that can drive up costs as well. The solution lies in choosing the right coverage.
What to Look for in K-12 Accidental Damage Protection
Your district should be getting the most out your K-12 accidental damage protection. When looking at providers, be sure to do your due diligence. Some plans may appear like a less expensive option, but could end up costing more than their worth if they don’t include:
- Unlimited repairs: Providers that limit repairs perhaps don’t understand the market. Your district should never have to weigh repairs or worry about turning in a less expensive repair because of repair limitations.
- Zero deductible: If it has a deductible, add it onto the overall cost of the plan. What good is a protection plan if you have to spend additional money with the hope of eventually saving money?
- Free shipping both ways: Again, if this is not included in the plan, expect to pay more than you care to pay for frivolous shipping costs.
Overall, the provider should never make you feel like it’s an issue if you actually use your protection plan. The process should never add more stress to your district. In fact, it should be the opposite—it should simplify your district’s repair process!
If the process already seems complicated before you sign on the dotted line, keep looking! Don’t fall into the trap of believing there isn’t a better option for your district’s devices, or that you have to compromise.
AGiProtect is K-12 Accidental Damage Protection
AGiProtect, powered by AGiRepair, is complete accidental damage protection that protects K-12 iPads, MacBooks, and Chromebooks. It is the most comprehensive coverage on the market, including:
- Unlimited repairs with no deductible
- Hassle-free online repair entry
- Instant claim approval
- Durable cases
- Free inbound and outbound shipping with shipping materials included
- Flexible terms including one- through four-year plans and no-case options
To top it off, AGiProtect is also one of the most affordable plans on the market. The cost per device can easily pay for itself with one repair. To get started, request a quote for your K-12 device fleet today.
AGiRepair is a leader in mobile device repair, offering comprehensive solutions for school districts, repair depots, and other organizations. For more information on our ITAD services, contact us today!
*Based on price of iPad 8 32GB ($309) at date of publication.
