A well-stocked garden shed is more than just a storage space—it’s home to your tools, lawnmower, snowblower, and other valuable equipment. But have you ever wondered whether these items are covered by your home insurance? If something were to happen—like theft, fire, or storm damage—would your policy protect you?
Understanding your coverage is key to ensuring you’re not left out of pocket when disaster strikes. Let’s break down how home insurance applies to garden sheds, tools, and outdoor equipment so you can be confident in your protection.
Does Home Insurance Cover Garden Sheds?
Yes – most standard home insurance policies provide coverage for detached structures on your property, including garden sheds, garages, and gazebos. This typically falls under “detached private structures” or “other structures” in your policy.
However, the coverage amount is usually a percentage of your home’s insured value—often 10% of your dwelling coverage. For example, if your home is insured for $500,000, your shed and other detached structures may have up to $50,000 in coverage.
What’s Covered?
- Fire, vandalism, or theft
- Wind and storm damage (but check for exclusions related to extreme weather)
- Falling tress or debris
- Damage from a vehicle or aircraft
What’s Not Covered?
- General wear and tear or aging materials
- Flooding or water damage (without additional coverage)
- Pest or rodent damage
- Earthquakes (unless you have specific coverage)
If your shed contains expensive tools or equipment, ensure your coverage limit is high enough to replace them if needed.
Are Your Tools and Equipment Covered?
Your lawnmower, snowblower, and power tools are covered under your personal property insurance, but only up to a certain limit. In most cases, home insurance includes coverage for personal belongings stored in both the home and other structures—including sheds.
Key Considerations for Coverage
- Theft and Damage: If someone breaks into your shed and steals your tools, your home insurance may cover the loss—subject to your deductible.
- Coverage Limits: Most policies have a cap on high-value items like power tools, so you may need extra coverage if you own premium equipment.
- Business Use: If you use tools or equipment for a business (such as landscaping or contracting), they won’t be covered under your home insurance. You’ll need a commercial insurance policy instead.
If you own high-end tools, consider scheduling them separately on your policy for full-value coverage.
How to Ensure Your Shed & Tools Are Properly Insured
To avoid gaps in coverage, here are a few steps you can take:
- Review Your Policy: Check your home insurance policy for coverage limits on detached structures and personal property.
- Create an Inventory: Keep a list (with photos) of valuable tools and equipment stored in your shed.
- Consider Additional Coverage: If your current policy doesn’t offer enough protection, consider increasing your personal property limit or adding a rider for expensive tools.
- Secure Your Shed: Prevent theft by using sturdy locks, motion-sensor lights, and security cameras to protect your belongings.
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Your garden shed and tools are an investment, so it’s important to make sure they’re properly covered under your home insurance. While most policies provide some level of protection, coverage limits and exclusions vary. Checking your policy details and making adjustments as needed can help you avoid unexpected losses.
Need help reviewing your coverage? Contact us today to ensure your shed, tools, and equipment have the right protection.
