Are You Covered for Detached Garage Damage During Winter Storms?

In late February, strong winds moved through an Oklahoma City neighborhood overnight. By morning, a homeowner found part of his detached garage roof lifted and shingles scattered across the yard.

​The house itself was fine, but the garage needed repairs. His next question was simple: would his homeowners insurance help?

Detached structures are often covered by home insurance, but many homeowners don’t realize how that coverage works until something happens.

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What Counts as a Detached Structure

Detached structures include buildings on your property that are not physically connected to your home. These can include:
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• Detached garages
• Storage sheds
• Workshops
• Fences
• Gazebos

Coverage for these structures usually falls under a separate portion of the policy.

How Insurance Typically Covers Storm Damage

Most homeowners policies include coverage for detached structures when damage is caused by a covered event like wind, hail, or falling debris. If a winter storm damages a detached garage or shed, the policy may help pay for repairs.
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Coverage depends on the cause of damage and the condition of the structure before the storm.

Why It’s Important to Know Your Limits

Detached structures often have coverage limits based on a percentage of the home’s dwelling coverage. That amount may or may not reflect the current cost to repair or rebuild.
February is a good time to review whether your limits are sufficient before spring storm season begins.

What to Review in Your Policy

A quick check can reveal whether your coverage still fits your property.
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• Confirm the coverage limit for detached structures
• Review your deductible for wind and hail claims
• Make sure new structures have been added to the policy
• Check for exclusions related to older buildings
• Verify that fences and sheds are included

Knowing these details helps prevent surprises later.

What to Do If Damage Occurs

If a winter storm damages a detached structure:
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• Take photos of the damage
• Prevent further damage if safe
• Keep receipts for temporary repairs
• Contact a contractor for an estimate
• Call your insurance agent to review coverage

Prompt documentation helps move the process forward smoothly.

​Preparing for Spring Storm Season

That Oklahoma City homeowner reviewed his policy after the February wind event and adjusted his coverage to better reflect his property. When spring storms arrived later in the year, he felt more confident knowing his detached structures were properly covered.
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Oklahoma Insurance Professionals is an independent insurance agency located in Oklahoma City serving the surrounding area with insurance solutions for personal and business needs. We help homeowners review coverage, understand limits, and prepare for seasonal risks before they happen.

get the best okc home insurancE!

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Scott Godwin
Founder

Oklahoma Insurance Professionals LLC serves Oklahoma City and the surrounding Oklahoma communities by protecting the people we work with just like we protect our own family members. Home insurance, auto insurance, business insurance, and more. We can help you find the coverage you need. ​