(800) 253-1482Missouri Other Structures Coverage
Summary: From detached garages to playhouses, other structures coverage can help you protect against more. This protection comes as part of standard home insurance policies in Missouri, though the coverage may be optional for some condos or townhomes. Remember that exclusions exist but you can purchase additional coverage for better protection, depending on your policy. Get quotes to find the right level of coverage and save on your premiums.Estimated Read Time: 3 mins
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Protecting your property doesn’t just mean your home and personal belongings. Many homeowners in Missouri also have detached garages, sheds, patios, and more that need protection. Other structures coverage (Coverage B) is there for the parts of your property that deserve protection but aren’t connected to the structure of your home.
Dwelling Coverage Defined
Other structures coverage protects things like fences, sheds, garages that aren’t attached to your home, etc. from the same perils as your home.
Most homeowners in Missouri will receive policy limits equal to 10% of their dwelling coverage.
So, if you have a standard home insurance policy (HO3) and your dwelling coverage limits are $300,000, you’ll be protected from up to $30,000 worth of damage to the other structures on your property.
For those with multiple structures, keeping these policy limits in mind is important if you’re going to have adequate coverage.
There are endorsements to help you raise the policy limits of your other structures protection and you’ll need to speak with your insurance agent to find the best option for your needs.
What Does Other Structures Coverage Cover for Homeowners in MO?
Missouri homeowners insurance has a lot of responsibilities, including covering many other buildings and structures outside of our homes.
However, what exactly qualifies as being protected?
While the exact structures protected may vary from carrier to carrier and policy to policy, here are some common ways you’re protected:
- Detached Garages
- Sheds
- Fences
- Gazebos
- Patios and Elevated Decks
- Outdoor Kitchens
- Guest Houses and In-law Apartments
- Playhouses/Jungle Gyms
- Swimming Pools*
*Not all above-ground pools qualify, as they may be viewed as personal property in Missouri, depending on your carrier.
Other Structures Insurance Exclusions in Missouri
Many homeowners policies don't cover certain risks, which means your other structure coverage won't protect your garage, shed, etc. from everything. There are exclusions you'll need to be aware of:
Flood damage isn't covered by Coverage B. You'll need to purchase a Missouri flood insurance policy to protect your home and the other structures on your property.
Earthquakes, sinkholes, and landslides can also damage your property, but again, additional coverage is available.
If you use your garage or shed for business, a home insurance policy won't cover you. You'll need the right business insurance policy to submit a claim in some cases.
Regular wear and tear on your home, like old fencing or roof shingles, isn't covered by other structures coverage either. Always maintain your property to avoid your claim being denied.
Why You Need Coverage B Other Structures Protection
While Missouri law doesn't require other structures coverage, your lender likely will.
Mortgage companies usually demand other structures coverage as part of a standard homeowners insurance policy.
If you own a condo or townhome, you might not need standard home insurance, so skipping Coverage B could save you money.
However, even if you've paid off your mortgage or bought your home without one, it's still wise to keep Coverage B to protect against major financial losses.
Especially after a major loss, the damage to your garage, pool, patio, or guesthouse can reach tens of thousands of dollars.
To avoid paying for these losses out of your own pocket, it’s important to have the right policy limits in place in case of a loss.
Get Quotes for Homeowners Insurance Other Structures Coverage in Missouri
To save money on other structures coverage and your policy as a whole, Freedom Insurance Group has partnered with top-rated carriers to help you shop and compare the best protection for the lowest price.
Ask an agent today or get a home insurance quote in just a few clicks to compare and save.
