When Does Home Insurance Cover Decks?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection for your property against various risks, often extending to outdoor structures like decks. While many policies include coverage for decks, the extent and type of protection depend on the specific terms and conditions outlined in your individual policy. Understanding how your policy addresses potential damage to your deck is important.

How Home Insurance Covers Decks

Home insurance policies typically categorize decks based on their attachment to the main dwelling. An attached deck is considered part of the main structure and falls under “Dwelling Coverage.” This coverage protects the physical structure of your home and anything permanently affixed to it.

Conversely, a detached deck, like one built away from the house, is typically covered under “Other Structures Coverage.” This covers structures not attached to the main dwelling, such as sheds or detached garages. The coverage amount for other structures is often a percentage of your dwelling coverage, commonly ranging from 10% to 20% of the main dwelling’s insured value.

Coverage for both attached and detached decks applies to sudden and accidental damage from specific perils listed in your policy. Common covered perils include fire, windstorms, hail, lightning, and vandalism. If a covered event damages your deck, your policy may help cover repair or replacement costs, up to your policy limits and after your deductible is met. Additionally, if someone is injured on your deck due to your negligence, the liability portion of your homeowners policy may provide coverage for medical expenses or legal fees.

Common Exclusions and Limitations

While home insurance covers many common risks, certain types of damage to decks are typically excluded from standard policies. Damage from gradual deterioration, like wear and tear, rot, or mold, is generally not covered. These issues are often considered preventable through regular maintenance and are not sudden or accidental events.

Damage from insect infestations, like termites, is usually excluded as it often results from long-term neglect. Policies also do not cover damage due to poor construction or inadequate maintenance. Homeowners are expected to maintain their property to prevent such issues from arising.

Standard homeowners insurance policies typically exclude damage from natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. For these perils, homeowners need to purchase separate policies or specific endorsements. These exclusions are in place because the risks associated with floods and earthquakes are distinct and require specialized underwriting.

Navigating Your Policy and a Claim

To understand your deck’s coverage, review your homeowners insurance policy documents. These documents detail your coverage limits (the maximum your insurer will pay) and your deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket before coverage begins). Familiarizing yourself with these terms ensures you know what to expect if damage occurs.

Should your deck sustain damage, documenting the damage is a crucial first step. Take photographs or videos of the damage and gather any relevant receipts. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and initiate the claims process.

Your insurer will likely assign a claims adjuster to assess the damage and determine if it is covered under your policy. Cooperating with the adjuster and providing requested documentation can help facilitate a smoother claims experience. The adjuster will evaluate the damage in relation to your policy’s terms and conditions to determine the appropriate settlement.