Homeowners insurance and other structures

You already know homeowners insurance helps protect your home from the unexpected. It’s also important to understand what your policy includes so you can feel more confident you have the right coverage in place.

One term you may see when reviewing homeowners insurance is other structures, often called Coverage B. So, what does “other structures” mean and how does it help protect your property?

Let’s break it down.

What structures are covered by home insurance?

When a homeowners insurance policy refers to other structures, it generally means detached buildings on your property—things that are not connected to your home.

Common examples include:

• Detached garages
• Gazebos or pergolas
• Sheds
• Fences
• Swimming pools

In many policies, other structures are covered for some of the same events as your home. For example, if a tree falls on your shed during a storm, other structures coverage may help pay to repair the damage.

Your policy documents can confirm what is and isn’t covered. If anything feels unclear, your American Family Insurance agent can walk you through your coverages and limits so you know what to expect.

Property coverage for other structures

It’s also important to know what this coverage is designed to protect.

Other structures coverage typically protects the structure itself—not what you keep inside it. Items stored in a detached garage or shed, like tools, bikes, or seasonal décor, may fall under the personal property coverage of your homeowners insurance policy.

When deciding on coverage amounts and creating a home inventory, remember to include belongings kept in places like:

• Garages
• Sheds
• Detached workshops
• Other outdoor storage spaces

Are other structures included in my homeowners insurance?

When shopping for homeowners insurance with American Family, you may have options for how other structures coverage is handled. Depending on your policy, you may be able to:

1. Choose a blanket coverage amount that applies to eligible detached structures on your property.

2. Select specific structures and coverage limits for each one. Your agent can help you estimate the replacement cost so your limits are more accurate.

3. Decline other structures coverage if you don’t have detached structures or don’t want this type of protection.

If you’re not sure what makes sense for your home setup, connect with your American Family agent. They can help you review what you have today and decide whether other structures coverage fits your needs.

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.