What Insurance Do Rhode Island Homeowners Need for Detached Structures?
Detached structures are easy to overlook — but they can represent a significant part of your property’s value. Whether it’s a garage, shed, fence, or pool house, these structures need to be properly covered to avoid gaps in protection.
For homeowners in Rhode Island, understanding how insurance applies to detached structures is key to making sure everything on your property is protected — not just the main house.
What Counts as a Detached Structure?
A detached structure is any building or feature on your property that is not physically connected to your home.
Common examples include:
Detached garages
Sheds or storage buildings
Fences and walls
Gazebos or pergolas
Pool houses or workshops
These are typically covered under a separate part of your homeowners policy.
Other Structures Coverage (Coverage B)
Most homeowners policies include “other structures coverage” (often called Coverage B).
This coverage typically protects detached structures against risks like:
Fire
Windstorms
Vandalism
Certain types of accidental damage
It works similarly to your dwelling coverage — but with its own limit.
How Much Coverage Do You Get?
In many cases, other structures coverage is set at:
About 10% of your dwelling coverage
Example:
If your home is insured for $400,000
Detached structures may be covered up to $40,000
This is where many homeowners run into issues — because that limit may not be enough.
When Coverage May Not Be Enough
You may need to increase your coverage if you have:
A large detached garage
A finished pool house or guest space
High-value outdoor structures
Multiple detached buildings
If the value of these structures exceeds your policy limit, you could face out-of-pocket costs after a claim.
What’s Typically Covered
Other structures coverage generally applies when damage is caused by a covered event, such as:
Storm damage
Fire
Vandalism
Falling objects (like trees)
However, coverage depends on your specific policy and its terms.
What May Not Be Covered
Certain situations may not be covered or may require additional protection.
Common exclusions or limitations include:
Flood damage (requires separate flood insurance)
Wear and tear or lack of maintenance
Business-related use of structures
High-value items stored inside
Understanding these limitations helps prevent surprises.
Liability Risks for Detached Structures
Detached structures can also create liability exposure.
For example:
A guest is injured in a detached garage
Someone trips near a fence or outdoor feature
An accident occurs around a pool house or workshop
Your liability coverage may apply — but limits should be reviewed based on your setup.
Special Considerations for Certain Structures
Some detached structures may require additional review or coverage:
Detached Garages Used for Business
May need business insurance or endorsements
Pool Houses or Outdoor Living Spaces
Increase liability exposure
Rental or Guest Spaces
May require different coverage entirely
Keeping Your Coverage Up to Date
Many homeowners add or upgrade structures over time — but forget to update their insurance.
You should review your policy if you:
Build a new shed or garage
Install a fence or outdoor structure
Add a pool or backyard feature
Upgrade an existing detached space
Protecting Your Entire Property
Your home isn’t just the house — it’s everything on the property. Detached structures can represent a meaningful portion of your investment, and they deserve the same level of protection.
For Rhode Island homeowners, reviewing other structures coverage ensures that every part of your property is properly insured — not just the main building.
