What Is Other Structures on Homeowners Insurance?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection for your dwelling and belongings against various unexpected events. A standard homeowners policy includes several components designed to safeguard your property. One important aspect of this coverage is related to “other structures” located on your property, distinct from your main house. This coverage helps homeowners ensure all their assets are adequately protected.

Defining Other Structures

“Other structures” refers to buildings and fixtures on your property not physically attached to your main dwelling. These structures are separated from the primary residence by clear space, or connected only by a fence or utility line. Their detachment from the insured home is the key distinction.

Common examples include detached garages, sheds, and gazebos. Fences, guest houses, and in-ground swimming pools also fall under this category. Driveways, walkways, and freestanding mailboxes are also considered other structures for insurance purposes.

Understanding Coverage for Other Structures

Coverage for other structures is a standard component of most homeowners insurance policies. This coverage is set as a percentage of your dwelling coverage, commonly around 10%. For instance, if your main home is insured for $300,000, your other structures coverage would be $30,000.

These structures are covered on an “open perils” basis, meaning they are protected against any cause of damage unless specifically excluded. Common perils include fire, windstorms, hail, vandalism, theft, and explosions. However, certain events are excluded, such as damage from floods, earthquakes, or general wear and tear. Damage from neglect, pest infestations, or structures used for business purposes or rented out are also excluded.

Assessing Your Coverage Needs

Assessing your “other structures” coverage requires reviewing your property and policy details. Inventory all detached structures on your land, estimating the cost to rebuild or replace each one. For insurance purposes, consider the replacement cost, which is the expense to rebuild or repair with materials of similar quality at today’s prices, rather than the depreciated value.

Consult your policy’s declarations page to determine the specific coverage limit. If you have unique or high-value structures, such as a large detached garage or an expensive guest house, the standard 10% of dwelling coverage may not be sufficient. Increasing your other structures coverage limit with your insurance provider can help align your policy with your property’s needs.