Are Awnings Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

Awnings offer shade, protection from the elements, and enhance outdoor living spaces. Homeowners often wonder how these structures are treated under their insurance policies. While awnings generally fall under homeowners insurance, the extent of coverage depends on specific policy language and the circumstances of any damage. Understanding these details helps homeowners prepare for potential incidents.

Standard Homeowners Insurance and Awnings

Standard homeowners insurance policies generally provide coverage for awnings under the “Dwelling” or “Other Structures” sections. If an awning is permanently attached to your house, it is considered part of the dwelling and falls under Coverage A. This section protects the main structure of your home, including attached garages, decks, and fences. Damage to such an awning is covered for the same perils as the rest of your home.

Awnings not physically connected to the main residence, such as those installed on a detached garage or a freestanding patio cover, usually fall under Coverage B, known as “Other Structures” coverage. This protects structures like sheds and detached garages located on your property but separate from your house. The coverage limit for other structures is commonly 10% of the dwelling coverage limit; for example, a $300,000 home might have $30,000 for other structures. Both dwelling and other structures coverage protect against perils such as fire, lightning, windstorms, hail, falling objects, vandalism, and theft.

Coverage for Different Awning Types and Damage Scenarios

An awning’s classification influences its coverage, depending on whether it is fixed, retractable, or portable. Fixed awnings, permanently mounted to the home, are considered part of the dwelling structure. They are protected against the same perils as the house, such as storm damage or fire.

Retractable awnings, which can be manually or motor-operated, are treated differently based on their attachment and specific components. If a retractable awning is permanently installed and considered a fixture, it generally falls under dwelling coverage. However, if components like the motor or fabric are personal property, they could be covered under Coverage C, personal property coverage. For freestanding or portable awnings not attached to any structure, coverage is under the “Other Structures” section if they are substantial and permanent. If temporary or easily movable, they may be classified as personal property, subject to those coverage limits and deductibles.

Common Exclusions for Awning Damage

Common exclusions can limit or negate awning coverage. Damage from normal wear and tear or gradual deterioration is excluded. This includes damage over time due to aging, sun exposure, or rust, as insurance covers sudden, unforeseen events. Damage from a lack of maintenance, such as not retracting a motorized awning during high winds as recommended by the manufacturer, is also excluded.

Damage from improper installation or manufacturer defects is commonly excluded, as these are not accidental perils. Homeowners may need to pursue recourse through the installer or manufacturer in such cases. Damage from pest infestations, like insects or rodents, is not covered by standard policies. Standard homeowners insurance policies also exclude damage from floods or earthquakes. Specific endorsements or separate policies are required to obtain coverage for these perils.

Filing an Awning Insurance Claim

When awning damage occurs, initiating a claim promptly is important. First, assess the damage and document it thoroughly with photos and videos, noting the date and time of the incident. It is also advisable to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, such as temporarily securing loose parts, if it is safe to do so. However, avoid making permanent repairs until your insurer has had an opportunity to inspect the damage.

Next, contact your insurance company or agent as soon as possible to report the damage and initiate the claim process. You will need to provide your policy number, personal information, and a detailed description of how the damage occurred. An insurance adjuster will be assigned to your case to inspect the awning and assess the extent of the damage. It is beneficial to obtain repair or replacement estimates from qualified contractors to provide to the adjuster. Once the claim is approved, the insurer will explain the settlement, which involves applying your policy’s deductible before payment is issued.