What Is Other Structures Coverage And Do You Need It?
Joy Wallet is advertiser-supported: we may earn compensation from the products and offers mentioned in this article. However, any expressed opinions are our own and aren't influenced by compensation. To read our full disclosure, click here.
You may assume that homeowners insurance coverage will ensure you are financially covered in any unfortunate event that damages your home. However, what about the detached structures like the swimming pool or your favorite hot tub? If you are lucky enough to have these structures in your home, securing them through other structures coverage makes sense.
These structures, such as detached garages, sheds, fences, and guest houses, represent valuable assets vulnerable to various risks, including fire, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Other Structures Coverage, also known as coverage B in a home insurance policy, helps ensure that you have the necessary funds to repair or replace these structures in case of damage or destruction caused by covered perils.
Understanding the scope and importance of Other Structures insurance is essential for homeowners seeking comprehensive insurance coverage to safeguard their property investments and provide peace of mind against unforeseen circumstances.
Jump To
What is Other Structures Coverage?
Other Structures Coverage is a component of a homeowners insurance policy that provides coverage for structures on your property that are not directly attached to your main dwelling. These structures can include detached garages, sheds, fences, guest houses, and similar buildings.
If these structures are damaged or destroyed by a covered peril, such as fire, windstorm, or theft, Other Structures Coverage can help pay for the repair or replacement costs up to the policy's limits. The coverage typically extends to a percentage of the coverage limit on the main dwelling, but this can vary depending on the insurance provider and policy terms.
Use Home Insure to Find Affordable Home Insurance
- Get Home (or Rental) Insurance as Low as $19/Month
- Compare rates in minutes
- No cost or obligation to check
- Rates subject to qualification and approval
Inclusions and exclusions of Other Structures Coverage
Inclusions
- Detached structures. Other Structures Coverage typically includes buildings on your property that are not physically attached to your main dwelling and are excluded from the dwelling coverage. This can include structures like detached garages, sheds, fences, guest houses, gazebos, and even swimming pools.
- Coverage for damages. Other Structures Coverage typically protects a range of perils, such as fire, lightning, windstorm, hail, theft, vandalism, and more, similar to the coverage provided for your main dwelling.
- Repair or replacement costs. If any covered structures are damaged or destroyed by a covered peril, the insurance policy can help pay for the repair or replacement costs up to the structures coverage limit.
Exclusions
- Unattached structures not listed. Structures not specifically listed or recognized by your insurance policy may not be covered under Other Structures Coverage. Reviewing your policy documents to ensure that all relevant structures are included is essential.
- Certain perils. Some insurance policies may exclude coverage for certain perils or events. For example, damage caused by floods, earthquakes, or acts of war may not be covered under standard homeowners insurance policies. Separate flood insurance and earthquake insurance policy maybe required.
- Usage restrictions. Some insurance companies may restrict how certain structures are used or maintained. For example, if a detached garage is used for commercial purposes or if a swimming pool is not properly maintained, coverage for damages related to these structures may be limited or excluded.
- Wear and tear. Damage resulting from normal wear and tear, gradual deterioration, or lack of maintenance is typically not covered by homeowners insurance policies, including Other Structures Coverage.
- Intentional damage. Damage caused intentionally by the homeowner or by someone with permission to be on the property is generally not covered by insurance.
It's crucial to carefully review your homeowners insurance policy and discuss any questions or concerns with your insurance agent to fully understand Other Structures Coverage inclusions, exclusions, and limitations. Additionally, consider whether you need additional structure coverage or endorsements to protect all structures on your property adequately.
What is covered in Other Structures Coverage
Other Structures Coverage policy covers various structures on your property that are not directly attached to your main dwelling. Here are some common examples of what may be covered under Other Structures Coverage:
- Detached garages. This includes garages separate from your main house for parking vehicles or storage.
- Sheds and workshops. Structures used for storage, hobbies, or workspace that are not connected to your main dwelling.
- Fences. Both boundary fences and internal fences within your property may be covered.
- Guest houses or casitas. Separate living quarters on your property are intended for guests or as rental units.
- Gazebos and pergolas. Outdoor structures for relaxation or entertainment purposes.
- Swimming pools. In-ground pools or above-ground pools, along with associated equipment such as pumps and filters.
- Barns and stables. Structures used for housing livestock or storing farming equipment.
- Driveways and walkways. Paved areas on your property may be covered for damages caused by covered perils like fire or vandalism.
- Retaining walls. Structures built to hold back soil or water are commonly used in landscaping.
- Outdoor play equipment. Items like swing sets, playhouses, and trampolines.
- Utility buildings. Structures housing utilities such as water pumps, generators, or wells.
- Outdoor cooking areas. Built-in grills, outdoor kitchens, or pizza ovens.
Who should buy an Other Structures Coverage
- Property owners with detached structures. If you have detached garages, sheds, workshops, or other outbuildings, you need Other Structures Coverage to protect these structures from risks like fire, theft, vandalism, or weather-related damage.
- Homeowners with fences and walls. If your property has boundary fences, retaining walls, or decorative walls not part of your main dwelling, Other Structures Coverage can help cover the cost of repairing or replacing them if they're damaged.
- Owners of swimming pools or outdoor features. If you have a swimming pool, hot tub, fountain, or other outdoor features on your property, Other Structures Coverage can provide financial protection against damage or liability issues related to these structures.
- Properties with guest houses or rental units. If you have separate guest houses, casitas, or rental units on your property, Other Structures Coverage can help cover the cost of repairing or rebuilding these structures if they're damaged by covered perils.
- Owners of outdoor equipment and property. If you have valuable outdoor equipment, such as lawnmowers, gardening tools, or sports equipment, Other Structures Coverage can help protect these items from theft or damage while stored on your property.
- Individuals in high-risk areas. Homeowners located in areas prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires, can benefit greatly from Other Structures Coverage to mitigate the financial risk associated with damage to detached structures.
Who shouldn't buy an Other Structures Coverage
- Renters. If you rent a property rather than own it, you typically do not need Other Structures Coverage. It is typically the responsibility of the landlord or property owner to insure the structures on the property.
- Condominium owners. If you own a condominium, the structures outside of your unit, such as common areas, parking garages, and exterior walls, are typically covered by the condominium association's insurance policy. However, you may still need personal property coverage and liability within your unit.
- Residents of urban apartments. Individuals living in urban areas, such as apartments or high-rise buildings, may not have any detached structures on the property that require separate insurance coverage. In such cases, Other Structures Coverage may not be relevant.
- Homeowners with no detached structures. If your property has no structures separate from your main dwelling, such as detached garages, sheds, or fences, you may not need Other Structures Coverage.
- Minimalists or tiny house owners. Individuals who live in tiny houses or minimalist dwellings that do not have separate detached structures may not need Other Structures Coverage.
- Individuals with limited assets. In many cases, homeowners insurance covers those living in areas with low risks of property damage, and you may choose to forgo Other Structures Coverage to reduce insurance costs.
Use Home Insure to Find Affordable Home Insurance
- Get Home (or Rental) Insurance as Low as $19/Month
- Compare rates in minutes
- No cost or obligation to check
- Rates subject to qualification and approval
Pros and cons
Pros
- Comprehensive protection. Other Structures Coverage provides financial protection for structures on your property that are not attached to your main dwelling, such as detached garages, sheds, fences, and guest houses.
- Peace of mind. Knowing that your detached structures are covered by insurance can provide peace of mind. You can rest assured that if any of these structures are damaged or destroyed by a covered peril, you are financially covered.
- Customizable coverage limits. Homeowners can typically customize the coverage limits for Other Structures Coverage based on their specific needs and the value of their detached structures.
Cons
- Additional cost. Adding Other Structures Coverage to your homeowners insurance policy typically results in an increase in premiums. Depending on the coverage limits and endorsements chosen, the additional cost may be significant.
- Risk factors. Some detached structures may pose higher risks than others, increasing the likelihood of insurance claims. For example, swimming pools or guest houses may increase liability risks, while detached garages or sheds may be more prone to theft or vandalism. Insurers may adjust premiums accordingly based on these risk factors.
- Exclusions and limitations. Like any insurance coverage, Other Structures Coverage may have exclusions and limitations that could affect the scope of coverage.
Companies offering Other Structures Coverage
State Farm
State Farm is one of the largest insurance carriers in the United States, renowned for its extensive range of insurance products and exceptional customer service. Founded in 1922, State Farm has built a reputation for reliability and financial stability, consistently earning high ratings from industry analysts.
In addition to auto and life insurance, State Farm offers homeowners insurance policies that include comprehensive coverage options for detached structures on your property. State Farm's Other Structures Coverage protects structures like detached garages, sheds, fences, and more, ensuring that homeowners have the necessary financial protection against various risks, including fire, theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage.
Allstate
Allstate is another prominent insurance company in the United States, known for its wide range of insurance products and commitment to customer satisfaction. Founded in 1931, Allstate has grown into one of the largest insurers in the country, serving millions of policyholders nationwide.
Allstate offers homeowners insurance policies that include comprehensive coverage options for detached structures on your property. With Allstate's Other Structures Coverage, homeowners can protect structures like detached garages, sheds, fences, and more from various risks, including fire, theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage.
One of the key features of Allstate's homeowners insurance is its customizable coverage options. Policyholders can tailor their coverage to meet their specific needs and budget, with options to adjust coverage limits, deductibles, and add-ons to suit their preferences.
Geico
GEICO, which stands for Government Employees Insurance Company, is one of the largest and most recognizable insurance companies in the United States. Founded in 1936, GEICO has grown into a household name, serving millions of policyholders across the country.
While GEICO is perhaps best known for its auto insurance offerings, it also provides homeowners insurance policies that include coverage options for detached structures on your property.
One key advantage of GEICO's homeowners insurance is its affordability. Known for its competitive rates and discounts, GEICO makes it easy for homeowners to find comprehensive coverage at a price that fits their budget. Policyholders can save even more by bundling their homeowners insurance with other policies, such as auto insurance, through GEICO's multi-policy discount.
Related: Best Homeowners Insurance of 2024
FAQs
Is Other Structures Coverage included in my homeowners insurance policy?
Other Structures Coverage is typically included as part of a standard homeowners insurance policy. However, coverage limits and terms may vary, so it's essential to review your policy documents to understand the specifics of your coverage.
Do I need Other Structures Coverage if I don't have any detached structures on my property?
If your property does not have any structures that are separate from your main dwelling, such as detached garages, sheds, or fences, you may not need Other Structures Coverage. However, it's essential to review your policy to ensure that any attached structures are adequately covered.
Can I add coverage for specific perils or high-value structures?
Yes, homeowners can often add coverage for specific perils or high-value structures by purchasing additional coverage or riders to their homeowners insurance policy. These endorsements provide additional protection tailored to your needs.
Use Home Insure to Find Affordable Home Insurance
- Get Home (or Rental) Insurance as Low as $19/Month
- Compare rates in minutes
- No cost or obligation to check
- Rates subject to qualification and approval
The bottom line
Other Structures Coverage is a crucial component of homeowners insurance, protecting structures on your property that are not directly attached to your main dwelling. This coverage ensures that detached structures, such as garages, sheds, fences, and guest houses, are financially protected against various risks, including fire, theft, vandalism, and weather-related damage.
While Other Structures Coverage offers valuable protection, homeowners should carefully review their policy documents, assess their coverage needs, and consider additional endorsements or adjustments to ensure adequate protection for their property. Consulting with an insurance professional can help homeowners make informed decisions and tailor their coverage to meet their needs and budget. Ultimately, having the right level of Other Structures Coverage in place provides peace of mind and safeguards your property investment against unforeseen circumstances.
Joy Wallet is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor, financial advisor, loan broker, insurance producer, or insurance broker. Its articles, interactive tools and other content are provided to you for free, as self-help tools and for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide investment advice. Joy Wallet does not and cannot guarantee the accuracy or applicability of any information in regard to your individual circumstances. We encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific investment issues. Featured estimates are based on past market performance, and past performance is not a guarantee of future performance.
Our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market. We are compensated by our partners, which may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on our site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice. Our editorials are grounded on independent research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services.
We value your privacy. We work with trusted partners to provide relevant advertising based on information about your use of Joy Wallet’s and third-party websites and applications. This includes, but is not limited to, sharing information about your web browsing activities with Meta (Facebook) and Google. All of the web browsing information that is shared is anonymized. To learn more, click on our Privacy Policy link.
Images appearing across JoyWallet are courtesy of shutterstock.com.
Share this article
