If you own a home, you know Coverage A protects the main structure: the house itself. But what about the shed, fence, detached garage, or even the charming gazebo out back? This is where Coverage B – Other Structures steps in to protect the parts of your property standing on their own.
Many homeowners either forget about Coverage B or misunderstand it completely. Some think it covers anything on their property. Others assume their shed is covered under Coverage A. And some don’t even know they have this coverage at all! So, let’s clear things up, without the usual insurance talk. This blog should leave you with a good understanding of what Coverage B is and how it’s important to you, in the most practical sense.
Quick Breakdown: Coverage A vs. Coverage B
Think of Coverage A as your home’s "personal bubble." It covers the main house, attached structures (like an attached garage or patio), and anything physically connected to the home itself. Coverage B, on the other hand, protects those free-spirit structures – i.e., the structures not attached to the house.
Here’s a simple way to think about it:
- Coverage A = Your house, its built-in additions, and anything physically connected
- Coverage B = The "independent contractors" of your property: detached garages, sheds, fences, and other stand-alone structures
For example, if a tree crashes through your backyard shed, Coverage B steps in. If your neighbor’s teenager crashes a bike into your fence, Coverage B has your back.
This is why understanding home insurance coverage for detached structures is so important. You don’t want to assume you’re covered and find out too late you’re not.
What Counts as ‘Other Structures’?
Coverage B is surprisingly versatile. It applies to more than just a shed or detached garage. Here are some common structures covered:
- Sheds & storage buildings on your property – Whether it holds gardening tools or your secret stash of holiday decorations, it’s covered.
- Detached garages – If it’s not physically attached to the house, it falls under Coverage B.
- Fences – No one thinks about fences until a storm knocks one down. (Spoiler: Coverage B covers it!)
- Driveways & walkways – Cracked pavement? Coverage B to the rescue.
- Guesthouses & pool houses – If it’s a standalone structure, it’s covered, but with limits (more on this later).
- Gazebos, pergolas & carports – Your backyard oasis? It’s covered, too.
- Mailboxes & flagpoles – If they’re permanently installed on your property, Coverage B usually applies.
Since home insurance coverage for detached structures varies depending on the type of structure and its use, it’s always a good idea to review your policy details (or ask your agent if its unclear).
Myths About Coverage B You Might Not Expect
Many homeowners assume they know what’s covered under Coverage B, but common misconceptions can lead to surprises when it’s time to file a claim. Let’s set the record straight by debunking some of the biggest myths about home insurance coverage for detached structures.
Myth 1: Even though my shed is physically attached to my house, it’s a shed so its Coverage B, right?
Wrong. If a structure is physically attached to the house, it’s part of Coverage A. Only fully detached structures fall under Coverage B.
Myth 2: Coverage B will pay to replace my fence, no matter what
Not always. Damage must be caused by a covered peril (like wind, fire, or falling trees). Regular wear and tear? It’s on you.
Myth 3: If a storm damages my driveway, Coverage A will fix it
Nope. Driveways and walkways fall under Coverage B – not Coverage A.
Myth 4: Coverage B pays for any detached structure I own
There are limits. If you’ve got a guesthouse with a full kitchen and bathroom, it might not be fully covered under Coverage B. (Talk to your insurance agent if you’re unsure.)
A big reason myths like these persist is because many homeowners don’t realize how home insurance coverage for detached structures actually works – or what’s excluded.
How Much Coverage B Do You Have?
Most homeowners insurance policies automatically include 10% of your Coverage A limit for Coverage B. For example, if your home is insured for $300,000, you’d typically have $30,000 in Coverage B protection. Need more? You may be able to increase your Coverage B limits if you have multiple detached structures. At Florida Peninsula, we allow increases up to 70% of your Coverage A limit in many cases.
Since home insurance coverage for detached structures is often based on a percentage of your dwelling coverage, it’s a good idea to confirm whether it’s enough for your property’s needs.
Florida Homeowners: Why This Coverage Is Extra Important
In Florida, hurricanes, severe storms, and high winds pose a constant risk to fences, sheds, and detached garages. Coverage B helps cover:
- Hurricane damage – a storm topples your fence? Covered.
- Fire damage – a fire spreads to your shed? Covered.
- Falling trees – a tree crushes your detached garage? Covered.
Because home insurance coverage for detached structures is built into Florida Peninsula’s policies, you don’t have to worry about adding it separately.
Do You Have Enough Protection for Your Home’s Detached Structures?
If you have multiple detached structures, a large fence, or an upgraded guesthouse, check your Coverage B limits to make sure they’re sufficient.
If you’re already insured with Florida Peninsula, take a moment to review your policy with your agent to confirm your Coverage B details. If you’re looking for homeowners insurance, get a quote today to ensure your entire property – house and detached structures – is fully protected.
