Home insurance coverage extends beyond the primary residence. Here’s a list of the other structures homeowners and business owners need to know:
1. Detached Structures
- Detached Garage: a garage that is completely separate from the home, whether a few feet or several yards away
- Storage Sheds: a small building, usually made of wood, used for storing things
- Guest Houses/Pool Houses: a small building, separate from the residence, for the housing of guests
- Outdoor Kitchens: Popular in Texas, it is a place separate from the home where you can entertain, cook and prepare meals while enjoying the open-air.
- Barns: a building (usually large) for the storage of farm products, farm equipment or feed and the housing of farm animals
2. Fences
- Structures of wood or wire or stone or cement forming a wall around a house or a piece of land. Fences are covered if damaged by wind, provided the policy includes wind coverage. Coverage typically accounts for actual cash value, which factors in depreciation. Damage from ice or snow is usually excluded unless related to a house collapse.
3. Coverage Limits
- Standard policies usually cover other structures up to 10% of the home’s insured value. For example, a home insured for $300,000 would have $30,000 in coverage for other structures. Homeowners will still need to account for deductibles.
4. Damage Types Covered
- Insurance damage coverage often includes fire, hail, theft, or sudden and accidental water damage. Wind and hail coverage is standard, except for coastal areas where specialized policies from the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association might be necessary. Flood damage is generally excluded, necessitating separate flood insurance policies.
5. Business Use of Structures
- If a structure on the property is used for business purposes, additional or separate coverage might be required. It’s crucial to consult with the insurance provider to ensure adequate protection.
Conclusion
Homeowners and business owners in Texas should carefully review their home insurance policies to understand the coverage of other structures on their property. Ensuring comprehensive coverage can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of damage. For more detailed information, visit the Texas Department of Insurance.
Crossroads aims to help homeowners and business owners by providing them with clear insights into what their home insurance policies cover. They can then make informed decisions about their insurance needs. If you require further assistance with your insurance claims or policy reviews, feel free to contact Crossroads Insurance Recovery Advocates at 713-369-4300 or contact@crossroadsira.com. We’ll be more than glad to provide expert guidance.
