Other structures

Other structures

When you think of home insurance, your first thought is probably your house. But what about everything else on your property, the detached garage, the fence you built last summer or that dreamy backyard gazebo? That's where other structures coverage comes in. It's a built-in part of most homeowners insurance policies, and it protects permanent fixtures on your property that aren't physically attached to your home.

In homeowners insurance, these features fall under Coverage B. It works alongside your main dwelling coverage (Coverage A) to make sure your entire property, not just the house has solid protection.

What are other structures in homeowners insurance?

Other structures are permanent, man-made features on your property that aren't connected to your house by a shared foundation, roofline or enclosed walkway. They're not used as second residences, but they still matter when it comes to your home's value and protection.

Common examples include:

• Detached garages – These standalone buildings are often used for parking vehicles or storing equipment and tools.
• Storage sheds or outbuildings – These spaces are ideal for lawn gear, seasonal décor, or household tools.
• In-ground swimming pools and pool houses – These high-value amenities may require additional coverage due to their replacement cost.
• Fences and gates – Both serve to enclose your yard, protect your pets, and enhance privacy.
• Driveways and paved walkways – These hardscaped features add functionality and improve your home's curb appeal.
• Retaining walls and garden structures – While often overlooked, these features can be costly to repair and are important to insure.
• Pergolas, gazebos, and greenhouses – These backyard additions offer shade, beauty, or utility and benefit from proper protection.
• Mailboxes, lamp posts, and flagpoles – Though small, these fixtures are considered part of your home's insured structures.

If it's permanent, sits on your property and isn't attached to your home, it likely falls under Coverage B.

How Coverage B works

Coverage B is automatically included in most standard homeowners policies. It's typically set at 10% of your dwelling coverage. So, if your home is insured for $400,000, your policy would cover up to $40,000 for other structures by default.

This part of your policy covers common risks like:

• Fire or smoke – Coverage includes damage from accidental fires or smoke, even if the fire starts on a neighboring property.
• Theft or vandalism – If someone breaks into your shed or deliberately damages outdoor structures, your policy may help pay for repairs or replacement.
• Windstorms and hail – Severe weather can cause significant structural damage, especially to fences, roofs, or detached buildings.
• Lightning – A direct strike can ignite a fire or damage electrical systems in freestanding structures like gazebos or greenhouses.
• Falling trees or flying debris – High winds or storms can send branches or debris crashing into fences, garages, or other covered items.
• Vehicle damage – If a vehicle accidentally strikes your garage, fence, or mailbox, your insurance may help cover repairs.
• Weight of ice or snow – Accumulated snow or ice can cause roofs to crack or collapse, especially on sheds or pergolas.
• Sudden water discharge – Burst pipes or appliance leaks can damage attached or nearby structures, though flood-related water damage is typically excluded.

Say a tree crashes through your detached garage during a windstorm. Coverage B helps pay for repairs, minus your deductible.

What's not covered under Coverage B

Coverage B offers valuable protection, but it doesn't cover everything. Just like the rest of your homeowners policy, it comes with certain limitations that can catch you off guard if you're not aware of them. That's why it's important to understand what's excluded, so you don't assume something is covered when it's not. Being clear on these gaps can help you make smarter decisions about add-ons or extra protection.

Some common exclusions include:

• Flood damage – Coverage for flooding, including storm surge, requires a separate flood insurance policy.
• Earthquakes or sinkholes – Damage from earth movement is not covered unless you purchase an additional rider.
• Wear and tear – Routine deterioration, aging materials, or deferred maintenance is excluded from coverage.
• Pest damage – Damage caused by termites, rodents, or other infestations is not included in standard policies.
• Business use – If a shed or garage is used for commercial activity, it won't be covered unless specifically endorsed.
• Rented buildings – Structures rented out without notifying your insurer may be excluded from coverage.
• Personal property inside – Belongings stored in detached structures are covered under Coverage C, not under other structures.

Here's a good rule of thumb: if you're using a structure for business or rental income, you may need additional coverage beyond a standard homeowners policy.

Why this coverage matters

It's easy to underestimate the value of what's outside your home. But replacing a custombuilt garage, a stone patio or even a privacy fence can cost thousands, sometimes tens of thousands of dollars.

If your Coverage B limit is set at 10% of your dwelling limit but your detached features are worth more, you could be underinsured without realizing it. That gap usually becomes obvious only after a loss.

Taking inventory of your property now means you're not caught off guard later. These quick scenarios show how Coverage B can protect your wallet:

Detached garage damage

A windstorm rips shingles off your detached garage and destroys the garage door. You file a claim, and your insurance company approves the $7,500 in repairs under Coverage B. If your limit is $40,000, you're covered, minus your deductible.

Fence and pool house damage

A fire spreads from a neighbor's yard and damages your fence and pool house. The repairs total $22,000, but your policy limit is $20,000. You'd be responsible for the remaining $2,000.

Business use exclusion

You run a small side business out of your backyard shed. When a tree falls and damages the roof, your claim is denied. Business use isn't covered under standard home insurance unless you've added a specific rider or business policy.

Can you increase your Coverage B limit?

Yes, and if you've added new outdoor features or upgraded existing ones, it might be time. Most insurance companies let you raise your limit through a simple policy endorsement.

Consider increasing your limit if:

• You recently built or upgraded a detached garage, greenhouse or pool
• You installed a custom fence, patio or outdoor kitchen
• Your detached features are worth more than 10% of your home's value

An increase usually comes with a small premium bump, but it's a smart tradeoff to avoid large out-of-pocket costs after a claim.

Coverage A vs B vs C

To really understand your home insurance coverage, it helps to see how the different parts work in tandem. Each section is designed to protect a specific piece of your property from the building itself to what's around it and everything inside. Knowing the role each plays can prevent gaps in coverage and help you feel more confident about your protection. Here's how these three parts of your policy work together:

• Coverage A (dwelling) – Covers your home's main structure along with anything physically attached to it, such as an attached garage, deck, or porch.
• Coverage B (other structures) – Protects permanent structures on your property that are not connected to your home, including detached garages, fences, and sheds.
• Coverage C (personal property) – Applies to the belongings you own—like furniture, clothing, and lawn tools—whether they're inside your home or temporarily located elsewhere.This distinction matters. Your shed is protected under Coverage B, but the snowblower stored inside? That falls under Coverage C.

This distinction matters. Your shed is protected under Coverage B, but the snowblower stored inside? That falls under Coverage C.

Tips to stay protected

It's easy to forget about your detached structures until something happens to them. Whether you've recently added a new shed, upgraded your pool house or simply want peace of mind, it's smart to check your coverage before you need to use it. A quick walk around your property can reveal more value than you realized. Not sure where to begin? Here's where to start:

• Walk your property – Take inventory of all detached structures or features, such as sheds, fences, or gazebos.
• Estimate replacement costs – Factor in materials, labor, building permits, and any custom features for accurate coverage.
• Review your policy – Look over your declarations page to find your current Coverage B limit and ensure it reflects your needs.
• Ask your insurance company questions – Clarify what's covered, what's excluded, and whether your policy includes special limitations.
• Update your policy – Make changes whenever you add or upgrade detached structures to avoid being underinsured.

Getting clear on what's covered and what's not can make all the difference when the unexpected hits.

What to do next

Take a short walk around your property and jot down every detached structure you see. Think about what it would cost to rebuild each one. Then compare that estimate to your current Coverage B limit. If you're not confident it's enough, reach out to a VIU by HUB Advisor. We'll help you adjust your policy so your entire property, not just your home, has the protection it deserves.

FAQs

Does other structures coverage include temporary or movable items?

No, Coverage B only applies to permanent fixtures that are physically affixed to your property. Movable items like patio furniture, temporary carports or above-ground pools are usually considered personal property and fall under Coverage C. If you're unsure whether something qualifies, check with your insurance company to avoid any surprises during a claim.

Is my detached garage still covered if I convert it into a guest house?

It depends on how the space is used. If your converted garage becomes a livable guest house with plumbing, heating and sleeping areas, it may no longer qualify under Coverage B. It could require additional dwelling coverage or an endorsement, especially if it's rented out or used as a second residence. Always notify your insurance company about major structural changes.

What happens if I share a fence with a neighbor and it's damaged?

If a covered peril damages a shared fence, your policy may cover your half of the repair under Coverage B. The neighbor would typically need to file a claim under their own policy for their portion. However, if the damage was clearly caused by your property (like a tree falling from your yard), your liability coverage might also come into play. It's best to document everything and contact your insurance company for guidance.