Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Other Structures?

Other structures coverage, otherwise known as Coverage B, is a standard part of homeowners insurance that helps pay for repairs or replacement of detached structures on your property. 

Examples of other structures include:

• Fences
• Detached garages
• Gazebos or pergolas
• Tool sheds
• Guesthouses or small cottages
• In-ground swimming pools
• Driveways and walkways

This coverage works alongside your dwelling coverage, which protects the main structure of your home. Because they’re linked, other structures coverage also shares your home insurance policy’s deductible. That means if you file a claim for damage to a detached garage or shed, you’ll need to pay your deductible before insurance helps cover the rest of the repair costs.

Other structures insurance pays for damage to detached structures on your property when the cause is sudden and accidental. While specifics vary by policy, here are the most common types of coverage:

Homeowners insurance won’t pay for every type of damage to detached structures, especially when it stems from exclusions in the policy. Here are common situations where you’d likely have to pay out of pocket:

Other structures coverage is often set at about 10% of your dwelling limit. For example, if your home is insured for $400,000, you’ll usually have around $40,000 to cover detached structures. However, actual limits can vary by provider. 

The right amount of coverage depends on the types of detached structures you have and their replacement cost. 

A simple fence or tool shed may fall well within the default limit, while a guesthouse, pool or large detached garage could quickly exceed it. If you’re planning major additions, like installing a new pool or building a workshop, it’s a good idea to review your policy and request higher limits if needed.

Keep in mind that other structures coverage is designed to protect the structures themselves, not necessarily everything inside them. For example, the tools in your shed or equipment in a detached garage may fall under personal property coverage instead. Reviewing both coverages together ensures you’re not underinsured.

While the best homeowners insurance protects you financially, preventing damage to other structures is even better. Keeping your detached structures in good condition not only extends their lifespan but also helps avoid damage that may not be covered by insurance. 

Here are MoneyGeek’s simple upkeep and preventative steps that can go a long way in protecting your investment.

Other structures coverage is a built-in part of homeowners insurance that helps pay to repair or replace detached structures like fences, sheds and garages. 

It covers sudden and accidental damage from events such as storms, fires, theft or vandalism, but won’t apply to floods, earthquakes, routine wear and tear, pests or business use.

Coverage limits are often set at 10% of your dwelling limit, though you may need higher protection if you’ve added larger structures like a pool, workshop or guesthouse. To get the most out of your coverage, it’s important to maintain these structures with regular upkeep, weatherproofing and security measures.

Our answers to frequently asked questions break down how homeowners insurance protects other structures, what Coverage B covers and when you need extra coverage.