What Is Other Structures Coverage (Coverage B)?
Key takeaways
- •Coverage B covers detached structures and is typically capped at 10 percent of your dwelling limit.
- •Fences, pool enclosures, and sheds are the most commonly omitted items on storm claims.
- •If you have a large detached garage or outbuildings, increase Coverage B by endorsement.
The short version
Other structures coverage, listed as Coverage B, pays for damage to structures on your property that are not attached to the house: a detached garage, shed, fence, pergola, in-ground pool, driveway, or retaining wall. It is typically limited to 10% of your Coverage A dwelling limit.
What Coverage B typically includes
- Detached garages and carports
- Sheds and workshops
- Fences and gates
- In-ground pools and pool equipment
- Retaining walls, driveways, and walkways
- Detached decks and pergolas
Where Long Island claims get missed
Following coastal storms or nor'easters, inspect the electrical components and pumps for detached pool cabanas and in-ground pools right away. Salt spray and windblown debris frequently ruin mechanical equipment, which insurance adjusters often overlook unless you point it out during the walk-through.
Storm claims regularly pay for roof and siding damage while leaving out fence sections, pool enclosures, and shed roofs. Nobody photographs the back corner of the yard. If it is not in the estimate, it is not getting paid.
How the 10% limit plays out
With Long Island labor and permitting costs at premium rates, rebuilding a standard detached garage can easily exceed $75,000. Endorsement riders to raise Coverage B up to 20% typically cost very little each year and prevent massive out-of-pocket expenses after a total loss.
On a $500,000 dwelling limit, Coverage B gives you $50,000. That is fine for a fence, and thin for a detached garage that needs a full rebuild plus demolition and permits. If you have significant outbuildings, ask your agent to increase Coverage B by endorsement.
Documentation checklist
- Photograph every detached structure from multiple angles, before and after
- Measure fence runs in linear feet and note material and height
- Record pool equipment model numbers
- Keep receipts for any prior improvements
Walk the entire property perimeter with your phone camera on video before the adjuster inspection, narrating the damage as you go.
Exclusions to know
If you converted a detached shed into a remote office or workshop, check your policy language regarding commercial use. Storing business inventory or running a business from an outbuilding can trigger exclusions under standard residential Coverage B terms.
- Flood damage requires separate flood coverage
- Structures used for business may be excluded or limited
- Landscaping and trees are handled under separate, small sublimits
- Wear, rot, and rust are not covered losses
Get the full property scoped
Long Island Public Adjusters inspects the whole property, not just the house, so detached structures are documented and priced. Call 516-410-0164 for a free claim review in Nassau or Suffolk County.
For official guidance on property insurance and claim rights, visit the New York State Department of Financial Services.
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