Sheds, Garages, and Outbuildings: What You Need To Know About Backyard Structures and Insurance

Like many Bloomfield, NJ homeowners, you may have a shed, detached garage, or outbuilding on your property. Any freestanding structure should be protected with a homeowner’s insurance policy in the event of an incident that causes damage or loss, but the policy you currently have on your home may or may not automatically cover them all. Because coverage amounts and exclusions from that coverage may differ, be sure to discuss any freestanding structures when you review your E.S.T.I.R. Inc. Homeowners policy.  

Garages, Sheds, and Other Outbuildings and Structures 

The most common detached structures found on a typical residential property are garages, sheds, decks, and fencing. While most of these structures are typically covered under the average homeowner’s insurance policy, it is important to check for any limitations of coverage, because not all policies include the same coverage. 

Stored Personal Items 

Do you know if the personal items you store in your detached structures are covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy? While typical items stored in outbuildings are usually covered, you should review your coverage with your insurance agent, because there may be limitations. For example, there may be a reimbursement limitation in your policy for certain items such as sporting equipment, machinery, marine equipment, or other high-value belongings. You may need to obtain separate coverage for those items, add a rider to your policy, or increase your personal property coverage limits. 

Is It Time to Review Your Homeowners Insurance Policy? 

Have you built or installed a new deck or shed? If you aren’t sure if your homeowner’s policy covers your freestanding structures and stored personal belongings, it’s time to have your policy reviewed to ensure you have protection for all your property. For answers to all your Bloomfield NJ homeowners insurance questions, give us a call today. Getting the right amount of protection for your home and property is easy with E.S.T.I.R. Inc.