Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Fence Damage?

Homeowners insurance often provides coverage for fence damage, but the extent of this protection depends on the specific cause of the damage and the terms outlined in the policy. Fences typically fall under the “other structures” portion of a homeowners insurance policy, which covers structures on your property that are separate from your main dwelling. This coverage is generally a percentage, often around 10%, of your dwelling coverage limit.

Common Causes Covered by Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance policies typically cover fence damage resulting from sudden and accidental events, often referred to as “perils.” These covered perils include damage from windstorms, such as a fence blown down by strong gusts, and hail. Falling objects, like a tree or large branch falling onto a fence, are also commonly covered. Acts of vandalism, where a fence is intentionally damaged or defaced, and damage caused by fire or smoke are usually included. Additionally, if a vehicle impacts your fence, your policy may cover the damage, though the responsible driver’s auto insurance liability coverage might also apply.

Common Causes Not Covered by Homeowners Insurance

While many events are covered, several common causes of fence damage are typically excluded from standard homeowners insurance policies. Damage resulting from normal wear and tear, gradual deterioration, or rot is generally not covered, as insurers expect homeowners to perform routine maintenance. Neglect, such as failing to repair broken components or address ongoing issues, can also lead to denied claims. Pest infestations, like damage caused by termites or rodents, are also usually excluded, being considered a maintenance issue rather than a sudden peril. Damage from natural disasters like floods and earthquakes is typically not covered by a standard policy and requires separate, specialized insurance.

Deductibles and Policy Limits

When a covered event damages your fence, your homeowners insurance policy will have a deductible, which is the amount you are responsible for paying out of pocket before your insurance coverage begins. For example, if your deductible is $1,000 and the repair cost is $3,000, you would pay the initial $1,000, and the insurer would cover the remaining $2,000. Policy limits also apply, representing the maximum amount the insurer will pay for a covered loss to your fence. Some policies may pay out based on Actual Cash Value (ACV), which accounts for depreciation, while others offer Replacement Cost Value (RCV), covering the cost to replace the fence without depreciation, generally providing more comprehensive coverage.

Filing a Fence Damage Claim

First, it is important to thoroughly document the damage immediately after it occurs. This includes taking clear photographs and videos from multiple angles, noting the date and time of the incident, and assessing the full extent of the damage.

Next, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process. Be prepared to provide your policy number, the date of the loss, and a brief description of how the damage occurred. The insurer will then typically assign a claims adjuster to your case.

The adjuster’s role is to inspect the damage, assess its cause, and determine if it falls under your policy’s coverage. You should cooperate fully with the adjuster, providing any requested documentation and walking them through the damaged areas. Obtain estimates for the repair or replacement of the fence from qualified contractors. These estimates will help the insurance company determine the appropriate payout for your claim.

Damage to Shared Fences

Damage to a shared fence introduces complexities regarding responsibility and insurance claims. If a fence is on a shared property line, both neighbors often share responsibility for its maintenance and repair. Responsibility depends on the damage cause and local ordinances.

If a peril, like a storm, damages a shared fence, both neighbors might file claims. One neighbor’s policy may cover the damage, with the insurer seeking reimbursement from the other if their negligence contributed. Communicate with your neighbor to discuss damage and agree on a course of action, such as sharing repair costs or coordinating claims.