Do You Need Extra Coverage for Detached Structures on Your Oklahoma Property?

When Brian moved into his new home in Oklahoma City, he was thrilled to finally have a detached garage where he could restore classic cars. A few months later, a strong storm swept through, bringing down tree limbs and damaging the roof of his garage.

He assumed his homeowners insurance policy would cover the repairs, but when he called his insurance provider, he was surprised to learn that coverage for detached structures had limits—and it might not be enough.

Many homeowners in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, and surrounding areas have structures like sheds, barns, detached garages, and workshops on their property. But are they fully covered under your homeowners insurance? Here’s what you need to know about insurance coverage for detached structures and whether you need extra protection.

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What Are Detached Structures?

​Detached structures, also called other structures in an insurance policy, are buildings on your property that are not attached to your main home. These can include:

• Garages (detached)
• Storage sheds
• Barns or stables
• Workshops
• Pool houses
• Fencing and gazebos
• Guesthouses (without renters)

Since these structures are separate from the main dwelling, they often fall under a different section of your homeowners insurance policy, which has its own coverage limits and conditions.

How Standard Homeowners Insurance Covers Detached Structures

A typical standard policy provides some coverage for detached structures, usually 10% of your dwelling coverage. If your home is insured for $300,000, then coverage for your detached structures would typically max out at $30,000.
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That might sound like plenty, but if you have a large garage, a workshop full of expensive tools, or a barn with valuable equipment, $30,000 might not be enough to rebuild or repair everything after a severe storm or fire.

What Types of Damage Are Covered?

In general, your homeowners insurance covers detached structures against the same perils as your main home, including:
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• Wind and hail damage
• Fire and smoke damage
• Falling objects (like tree limbs)
• Vandalism and theft
• Lightning strikes

However, just because a covered peril applies to your home doesn’t always mean it applies to your detached structures. Some policies have specific exclusions or limitations, so it’s important to check your policy details or ask an insurance agent for clarification.

What Is Not Covered?

While homeowners insurance policies offer protection for detached structures, there are gaps where additional coverage might be necessary. Standard policies do not typically cover:
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• Business-related use: If you run a business out of your detached garage or workshop, standard homeowners insurance won’t cover business-related losses. You may need business insurance or a separate policy.
• Detached structures used as rental units: If you rent out a guesthouse, it’s likely not covered under your homeowners policy. Landlord insurance may be required.
• Flood damage: Detached structures are not covered for flood damage unless you have a separate flood insurance policy.
• Earthquake damage: Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover earthquake damage. You may need an earthquake insurance endorsement.
• Wear and tear: If your shed roof leaks due to old age, insurance won’t cover it. Regular maintenance is key.

When Should You Consider Extra Coverage?

If you have valuable structures on your property, you might need additional coverages to avoid paying out of pocket for repairs. Consider extra coverage if:

• Your detached structures are worth more than 10% of your dwelling coverage.
• You store expensive tools, equipment, or vehicles in these structures.
• You have a guesthouse or rental property that isn’t covered by standard homeowners insurance.
• Your area is prone to flooding, earthquakes, or tornadoes, and you need additional protection.

How to Increase Your Coverage for Detached Structures

If you need more coverage, you have a few options:

1. Increase your "Other Structures" coverage – You can raise your coverage limits to reflect the true value of your detached buildings.
2. Add a separate policy – If you have a high-value structure, a separate insurance policy might offer better financial protection.
3. Look into specialized coverage – If you have a workshop, barn, or guesthouse, specific insurance products may provide better coverage.

Talk to an Oklahoma Insurance Agent for the Right Coverage

Detached structures are an important part of your property, and making sure they have the right insurance coverage is just as important as protecting your main home. If you’re unsure whether your policy limits are enough, or if you need additional coverages, working with an insurance agent can help you find the right protection for your needs.
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Whether you live in Oklahoma City, Edmond, Norman, Yukon, or Moore, Oklahoma Insurance Professionals is here to help you navigate homeowners insurance policies and find the best insurance coverage for your home and detached structures. Give us a call today to review your policy and make sure you’re fully covered.

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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. ​