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Homeowners Insurance

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover a Detached Garage or Shed?

Answered by John Smart, AI-Certified Agent™ Philadelphia Metro Published September 29, 2026 · Updated September 29, 2026 240 words
Short Answer

Yes. Detached structures like garages and sheds are covered under other structures coverage, usually at up to 10% of your dwelling limit.

The Short Answer

Yes. A detached garage or shed is covered under the other structures portion of your homeowners policy. This coverage typically pays up to about 10% of your dwelling limit for structures that are not attached to your house.

How Other Structures Coverage Works

Homeowners policies include a separate other structures limit for buildings that are not attached to the main house. That includes detached garages, sheds, fences, and sometimes gazebos or pool houses. The limit is usually a percentage of your dwelling coverage, commonly 10%.

So if your dwelling is covered for $300,000, your other structures coverage is often around $30,000. That amount is shared across all detached structures on your property.

When You May Need More

If your detached structures are worth more than the other structures limit, you may need to increase it. A large detached garage, a workshop, or a substantial shed can easily exceed 10% of the dwelling limit.

Tell your agent about all of your detached structures and their estimated value. They can adjust the other structures limit so a detached garage or shed is fully protected, rather than discovering a shortfall after a loss.

John Smart

Smarty's Advice Expert Insight

John Smart (Smarty) · Smarty Home Solutions / eXp Realty Agent, AI Certified Agent

List Your Detached Structures for Your Agent

Garages and sheds are covered, but only up to the other structures limit. Tell your agent what you have and raise the limit if the structures are worth more.

John Smart, AI-Certified Agent with eXp Realty helps homeowners across Greater Philadelphia protect their whole property. Call 215-598-6848 or schedule a free consultation.

John Smart

Answered by John Smart

AI-Certified Agent™ with eXp Realty | PA License RS348332

Serving Philadelphia, Montgomery, Bucks, Chester, Delaware & Berks Counties

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John Smart | AI-Certified Agent™ | License RS348332 | eXp Realty