Understanding Coverage B: Protecting the Structures Beyond Your Home
When most people think about homeowners insurance, they immediately focus on the house itself. But what about the other buildings on your property? That’s where Coverage B – Other Structures comes into play. Whether it's a detached garage, shed, fence, or even a gazebo, this coverage ensures that the structures beyond your main dwelling are also protected.
At The Slocum Agency, Inc. in Warwick, Rhode Island, we believe that understanding your policy inside and out is the best way to ensure you're properly protected. So, let’s break down what Coverage B is, what it covers, and why it’s essential for Rhode Island homeowners.
🔍 What Is Coverage B – Other Structures?
Coverage B is a section of your standard homeowners insurance policy that provides protection for structures on your property that are not attached to your main home. These can include:
Detached garages
Sheds
Barns
Fences
Guest houses
Gazebos
Driveways and walkways (depending on the policy)
In-ground pools (depending on how they are classified)
These structures are usually covered for the same perils as your home itself—such as fire, wind, vandalism, and more.
💵 How Much Coverage Does Coverage B Provide?
Most policies automatically provide Coverage B at 10% of your Coverage A (Dwelling Coverage) limit. So, if your home is insured for $400,000, Coverage B will likely provide $40,000 for your detached structures.
Important: This limit can be adjusted. If you have multiple outbuildings or high-value structures, you may need to increase your limit to avoid being underinsured.
🛑 What’s Not Covered?
Just like your dwelling, Coverage B has exclusions. It does not typically cover:
Structures used for business purposes
Structures rented out to others (without proper endorsement)
Wear and tear or lack of maintenance
Underground piping and wiring (unless specifically covered)
If you run a small business from your detached garage or rent out a guest house, you'll need to discuss additional endorsements or commercial coverage with your insurance agent.
🏡 Why Is Coverage B Important in Rhode Island?
In places like Warwick, Providence, and the broader Rhode Island area, properties often feature detached garages, fences, older barns, or backyard studios. Coastal weather can pose additional risks—from hurricanes and nor’easters to heavy snowfall. Protecting all the structures on your property is just as critical as covering your home.
Plus, with the rise of backyard renovations, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), and outdoor living enhancements, many homeowners are investing significantly in these secondary structures. A standard 10% Coverage B limit might not be enough.
✅ When to Review or Increase Your Coverage B Limits
You should revisit your Coverage B limits if you:
Add a new structure to your property
Renovate or upgrade existing outbuildings
Start using a structure for business or rental purposes
Have an older home with valuable historic structures
Haven’t reviewed your policy in several years
At The Slocum Agency, we offer personalized insurance reviews to make sure your policy still fits your current needs. Chris Slocum and our team of insurance counselors are happy to walk you through your coverages, especially if you're in Central Rhode Island or along the coast.
💡 Final Thought: Don’t Forget What’s Beyond the Four Walls
Coverage B is often overlooked until it’s too late. But if a tree falls on your detached garage or a storm damages your shed, you'll be glad to have the right protection in place.
Let us help you review your policy and make sure everything on your property—not just your house—is covered.
Need a homeowners insurance review or want to increase your Coverage B limits?
Contact The Slocum Agency, Inc. in Warwick, RI today. We’re proud to serve Rhode Island homeowners with clarity, experience, and peace of mind.
