Is a Boat Lift Covered Under Homeowners Insurance?

Homeowners insurance protects a homeowner’s assets against unforeseen events. This coverage extends beyond the primary residence to include other structures and personal belongings on the property. Understanding the scope of such policies is important for property owners to ensure their investments are adequately protected.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance Coverage for Structures

A standard homeowners insurance policy categorizes property into distinct coverages. Dwelling coverage, or Coverage A, protects the physical structure of the main home, including attached garages, decks, and other permanent fixtures. This policy section covers damage from listed perils like fire, windstorm, hail, and vandalism. The coverage limit is generally based on the estimated cost to rebuild the home.

Beyond the main dwelling, homeowners policies include “other structures” coverage, known as Coverage B. This section protects structures on the property not physically connected to the main house, such as detached garages, sheds, gazebos, and fences. The coverage limit for these structures is commonly set as a percentage of the dwelling coverage, often around 10%. Like dwelling coverage, these detached structures are protected against the same perils outlined in the policy.

Boat Lift Coverage Under Standard Homeowners Policies

Standard homeowners insurance policies offer limited or no comprehensive coverage for boat lifts. These policies are primarily designed for land-based property and often contain specific exclusions for structures located over water or considered marine property. While a boat lift might seem like an “other structure,” its placement in or over a waterway often places it outside the typical scope of Coverage B. This distinction arises because risks associated with water-based structures, like exposure to wave action, ice, or sub-surface conditions, differ significantly from land-based buildings.

Policies frequently exclude damage from perils specific to marine environments, such as freezing, thawing, or the weight and pressure of water or ice. Damage from the collapse of a pier, wharf, or dock is also often excluded unless caused by a building collapse. Some insurers may provide very limited coverage for a boat lift if stored on the residence premises and classified as personal property, but this is an exception with limitations and deductibles. The type of boat lift, whether fixed or floating, and its attachment to land can influence how an insurer views it, yet significant exclusions usually remain.

Securing Specific Coverage for Your Boat Lift

Homeowners need to explore alternative methods to protect their boat lift investment. A common solution involves adding an endorsement, or rider, to an existing homeowners insurance policy. This endorsement modifies the policy to include specific coverage for the boat lift, usually for an additional premium. Such riders can extend coverage to perils that would otherwise be excluded, bridging the gap left by standard policy language.

Another avenue for securing coverage is through specialized marine or boat insurance policies. While boat insurance primarily covers the vessel, some policies or add-ons can extend to include boat lifts. These policies address the unique risks associated with watercraft and related equipment, offering more comprehensive protection for marine structures. For high-value or complex boat lifts, a standalone property-specific policy may also be available, providing tailored coverage that recognizes the structure’s unique characteristics and exposure.

Steps to Confirm Your Policy’s Details

To understand your boat lift’s coverage, thoroughly review your current homeowners insurance policy documents. Pay close attention to the “Other Structures” section, Coverage B, and any clauses detailing exclusions related to watercraft, marine property, or structures situated over water. This provides a baseline understanding of your existing protection.

Contact your insurance provider or agent directly to discuss your boat lift. They can clarify your current coverage and explain any limitations or exclusions. When communicating, be specific about the type of boat lift you own, its location, value, and installation. This detailed information enables your agent to provide accurate advice and explore options for additional coverage, such as endorsements or separate policies. Always request confirmations of coverage, policy changes, or new policy details in writing for your records.