Other structures coverage, commonly referred to as Coverage B on a homeowners insurance policy, is an important part of protecting your property in Patterson, NY. Despite its importance, many homeowners are unsure what this coverage includes or how much they actually need. At Kimberly J Brennan Agency, we help homeowners understand how other structures coverage works and ensure their policy reflects the true value of their property.
What Is Covered Under Other Structures Coverage
Other structures coverage applies to buildings or structures on your property that are not physically attached to your primary residence. These structures are typically separated from the home by open space or connected only by a fence, walkway, or utility line. Common examples of other structures include:
- Detached garages and carports
- Storage sheds and workshops
- Fences, gates, and stone walls
- Gazebos and pergolas
- Swimming pools, including above-ground and in-ground pools
- Hot tubs
- Sports courts and similar recreational structures
Driveways, sidewalks, and similar paved surfaces located on your property are also typically included under other structures coverage.
How Much Other Structures Coverage Do You Need
Most homeowners’ insurance policies automatically set other structures coverage at 10 percent of the dwelling coverage limit. For example, if your home is insured for $500,000, your policy would generally include $50,000 in other structures coverage.
Whether this amount is sufficient depends on several key factors:
- The cost to rebuild the structures, not their market value
- The use of custom or specialized materials
- The number and size of detached structures on the property
Homeowners’ insurance is designed to cover the cost to rebuild after a covered loss. If you have a custom detached garage, ornate fencing, or high-end outbuildings, the cost to rebuild may exceed the standard 10 percent limit. In the event of a major loss, such as a fire or severe storm, insufficient coverage could result in significant out-of-pocket expenses.
On the other hand, if your property has few or no detached structures, you may not need the full default limit and could adjust your coverage accordingly.
Reviewing Your Coverage With a Local Insurance Agency
Other structures coverage should reflect the unique features of your property. The professionals at Kimberly J Brennan Agency can review your homeowners’ insurance policy and
