Glossary

Other structures (Coverage B)

Protection for buildings on your lot that stand apart from the house, such as a detached garage, shed, gazebo or fence.

Also called: Coverage B, detached structures coverage

Other structures coverage, or Coverage B, applies to structures on your property that are separated from the house by clear space, or joined to it only by a fence, utility line or similar connection. Detached garages, sheds, gazebos, fences and, on many policies, in-ground pools all fall here. Land is not covered.

The default limit in the ISO HO-3 is 10% of the dwelling coverage limit, so a $350,000 dwelling limit gives $35,000 for all other structures combined. That is one shared pool: a windstorm that takes down the fence and flattens the shed draws on the same $35,000. You can ask for a higher limit, and some insurers set the percentage differently.

Two points trip people up. First, structures used for business, or rented to anyone who is not a tenant of the house, are generally not covered, with an exception for a garage rented only as a private garage. A backyard studio you rent out or run a business from needs its own arrangement. Second, a costly detached garage, workshop or guest house can exceed 10% of Coverage A quickly, so tell your agent when you build one.

The guide to Coverage B for fences, sheds and garages covers claims examples in more detail.

Last reviewed October 10, 2026

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Related terms

Dwelling coverage (Coverage A) The part of a homeowners policy that pays to repair or rebuild the house itself, including attached structures such as a garage, porch or deck. Personal property (Coverage C) Coverage for the movable things you own, such as furniture, clothing, electronics and tools, whether they are at home or elsewhere in the world. Policy limit The most an insurer will pay for a covered loss under one coverage, set separately for the house, other structures, belongings, living costs and liability. Sublimit A cap on payment for one type of loss or coverage that is lower than the main policy limit, such as a set dollar amount for mold or sewer backup. Replacement cost What it would cost to repair or rebuild with materials of like kind and quality at today's prices, with no deduction for age or wear.

Related guides

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Related tools

How much homeowners insurance do I need? Set a target for each coverage in a homeowners policy, from rebuild cost to liability, then compare it with your current limits.