What Is Other Structures Coverage?

Other structures coverage is the part of your homeowners policy that pays to repair or replace structures on your property that are not physically attached to your home. This includes detached garages, sheds, fences, gazebos, guest houses, pools, driveways, and retaining walls.

How other structures coverage works

Other structures coverage is typically set at 10% of your dwelling coverage. If your home is insured for $300,000, you would have $30,000 available for other structures. This limit covers all detached structures combined, not each one individually. The same covered perils that apply to your dwelling — fire, wind, hail, theft, vandalism — also apply to other structures.

What counts as an "other structure"

• Detached garage: If your garage is not physically connected to your home, it falls under other structures coverage, not dwelling coverage.
• Fences and walls: Perimeter fences, retaining walls, and decorative walls on your property are covered.
• Sheds and outbuildings: Storage sheds, workshops, barns, and playhouses are included.
• Pools and decks: An in-ground pool, an above-ground pool, and a freestanding deck are other structures.
• Driveways and walkways: Paved surfaces on your property can be covered if damaged by a covered event.
• Gazebos and pergolas: Freestanding outdoor living structures are included.

When 10% is not enough

If you have a large detached garage, a pool house, or multiple outbuildings, 10% of your dwelling coverage may not be sufficient to cover everything. Consider the replacement cost of all detached structures on your property. If the total exceeds your other structures limit, ask your insurer to increase the percentage. This is usually done through an endorsement at a modest additional cost.

Important exceptions

Structures used for business purposes may not be covered — or may have limited coverage — under a standard homeowners policy. If you run a home business out of a detached building, you may need a separate commercial policy. Additionally, structures rented out to non-family members may require landlord coverage rather than homeowners coverage.

What Truscott recommends

Walk your property and list every detached structure. Add up their replacement costs and compare the total to your other structures limit. If there is a gap, increase the coverage. At Truscott, we inventory your property's structures during our review process to make sure nothing is overlooked. Request a Truscott policy checkup and we will ensure your other structures coverage matches what is actually on your property.