Other Structures Coverage: Protects Your Sheds, Fences, Detached Garages, and More
If a windstorm, fire, or even a falling tree damages a structure on your property that's not attached to your home, Other Structures Coverage steps in. It fills the protection gap for garages, sheds, fences, and more—so you don't have to cover the cost alone.
Real Situations Where Other Structures Coverage Helps
Real scenarios that show exactly when and how Other Structures Coverage protects you.
Windstorm Damages Backyard Fence
Emily discovered her backyard fence blown down after a severe windstorm. Her Other Structures Coverage activated, covering the $2,200 cost to repair the fencing. Instead of paying the full bill, Emily only paid her $500 deductible—and her yard was secure again within days.
Detached Garage Fire Loss
When a small electrical fire destroyed Jeff’s detached garage, including his lawn tools, Other Structures Coverage paid out $15,000 for the garage rebuild. Instead of facing a major setback, Jeff paid his $1,000 deductible and quickly started repairs with the help of his insurer's professional network.
Severe Hail Destroys Multiple Outbuildings
Liz returned home after a hailstorm to find her gazebo, fence, and pool shed all heavily damaged. Her Other Structures Coverage responded with a $40,000 claim, ensuring all three structures were repaired without draining her savings. Liz paid only her $1,500 deductible, safeguarding her property’s functionality and value.
Everything You Need to Know About Other Structures Coverage
The complete picture: what's covered, what's not, and how to decide if you need it.
Other Structures Coverage (Plain English)
Other Structures Coverage protects things on your property that aren’t physically connected to your house—like sheds, fences, detached garages, or gazebos. When storms, fire, or accidents damage those structures, this coverage helps pay for repairs or replacement up to a set dollar amount. The key thing to understand is that it protects the valuable buildings and features that make your property complete.
Key Details in the Fine Print
Coverage usually comes with a deductible—the amount you pay before insurance helps out. Most policies limit coverage to 10% of your main home (dwelling) insurance (e.g., $30,000 if your home is insured for $300,000). Payouts may be based on Actual Cash Value (ACV)—meaning depreciation is subtracted—unless you’ve purchased a replacement cost upgrade. Maintenance, normal wear and tear, and business uses are not covered. Always review your policy’s specific limits, exclusions, and conditions.
Other Structures vs. Dwelling Coverage
Other Structures Coverage is NOT the same as Dwelling Coverage. Other Structures Coverage covers detached items like your shed or fence, while Dwelling Coverage protects the main house itself and anything attached. You typically need both to be fully protected.
Who Needs Other Structures Coverage?
You typically need this coverage if:
- You are a homeowner with sheds, garages, fences, or other buildings not attached to your main house
- Your property has detached structures of any kind
You might skip this coverage if:
- You live in a condo or apartment, or all your property structures are permanently attached to the house
Coverage Limits & Options
Coverage is typically set at 10% of your Dwelling Coverage, but options may vary. You can adjust limits if you have high-value structures or want more protection. Deductibles can range from $500 to $2,500. Some insurers offer replacement cost endorsements for new construction or upgrades. Be sure to review your property and discuss special options—especially if you’ve added new structures.
What's NOT Covered by Other Structures Coverage
This coverage does NOT cover:
- Business-use buildings: Structures used exclusively for business or renting out are excluded
- Normal wear and tear or poor maintenance: Insurance only covers sudden, accidental damage—not gradual deterioration
- Land and underground items: The land itself and things like pools, patios, or underground pipes are excluded
For these situations, you'd need business insurance, a maintenance fund, or separate endorsements.
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How Other Structures Coverage Actually Works
Understanding exactly what happens when you file an Other Structures claim—from start to finish.
The Claims Process
- Contact Your Insurance Team: As soon as you notice damage, reach out to your insurance broker or carrier. You’ll get advice on next steps and a claim number for tracking.
- Assessment & Documentation: An adjuster evaluates the structure (through photos or onsite visit) to confirm the cause and estimate repair or replacement costs.
- Approval & Repairs: Once the claim is approved, you select a repair contractor (or use a recommended one) and start repairs. The insurer works with you and the contractor for payment arrangements.
- Settlement: You pay your chosen deductible; insurance covers the rest—up to your coverage limits. If the structure is a total loss, they’ll issue payment based on ACV or replacement cost (if endorsed).
What You Pay
Your deductible—typically $500 to $2,500—comes out first. Your premium covers all eligible structures under your policy limit. Choosing a higher deductible can lower your monthly premium, but make sure it’s an amount you can pay comfortably in an emergency.
Timeline
Simple claims like fence repairs often resolve in one to two weeks, while complex situations involving large structures, fire, or multiple outbuildings may take up to a month or more for full settlement. Most clients find the process streamlined with expert guidance. The key is prompt reporting—the sooner you file, the faster repairs get underway.
What Other Structures Coverage Actually Costs vs. What You Risk
Understanding the real financial impact: what you pay for coverage vs. what you risk without it.
Fence Repair After a Windstorm
Annual Coverage Cost: $35
Scenario: A backyard fence collapses during a storm.
Without Coverage: $2,200 out of pocket
With Coverage: $500 deductible (plus your annual premium)
Protection Value: $1,700 saved in this scenario alone
Detached Garage Fire
Annual Coverage Cost: $60
Scenario: A detached garage is destroyed by fire.
Without Coverage: $15,000 out of pocket
With Coverage: $1,000 deductible (plus annual premium)
Protection Value: $14,000 saved—even after deductible
Multiple Outbuildings Damaged by Hail
Annual Coverage Cost: $80
Scenario: Hail severely damages a gazebo and shed.
Without Coverage: $12,000 out of pocket
With Coverage: $1,200 deductible (plus your premium)
Protection Value: $10,800 saved in a single event
The Economic Reality
For most homeowners, Other Structures Coverage costs $3–$7 per month—less than a streaming subscription. One event—like a major storm or fire—can cost $10,000–$40,000 or more in repairs and lost value. It could take years to recover financially after a big loss. The math is simple: Other Structures Coverage pays for itself the first time you need it, and it shields you from unexpected, budget-busting repair bills.
4 Costly Other Structures Coverage Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' mistakes—avoid these common errors that can leave you unprotected when you need coverage most.
Assuming All Your Property Is Covered
Many homeowners think Dwelling Coverage protects everything on their property, including sheds, fences, and standalone garages. This isn’t true. Instead, review your policy and make sure Other Structures Coverage is included and limits fit your actual needs.
Underestimating the Value of Detached Structures
It’s easy to undervalue what detached garages, sheds, or gazebos are worth—especially after upgrades. Underinsuring means you might not have enough protection if disaster strikes. Instead, add up the replacement costs and update your coverage as your property evolves.
Ignoring Exclusions for Business Use
Some clients are surprised that structures used for business or rental purposes aren’t covered. Using a shed or garage as a home office, workshop, or rental may void your coverage. Disclose these uses to your advisor and ask about endorsements or separate policies if needed.
Choosing a Deductible That's Too High to Afford
Selecting a high deductible for a small premium savings can backfire if you can’t pay it when you need repairs. If you can’t access the funds quickly, repairs may be delayed or impossible. Instead, pick a deductible you could comfortably pay with your emergency savings.
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