Understanding Coverage for Detached Garages

Ever wondered if your homeowners insurance covers that detached garage sitting at the edge of your backyard? You’re not alone. Detached garages are often overlooked when it comes to insurance policies, but they can be just as vulnerable to damage as your main home. Whether it’s a storm, fire, or even vandalism, knowing what’s covered (and what’s not) can save you a ton of headaches—and money—down the road.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about insurance coverage for detached garages. We’ll explore what’s typically included, what to watch out for, and how LMR Public Adjusters—South Florida’s premier public adjusters—can help you maximize your insurance claims with a personalized, dedicated team.

Table of Contents

• What is a Detached Garage?
• Standard Insurance Coverage for Detached Garages
• Common Exclusions and Limitations
• How to Maximize Your Insurance Claim
• Why Choose LMR Public Adjusters?

What is a Detached Garage?

Let’s start with the basics. A detached garage is exactly what it sounds like—a garage that’s not physically connected to your main house. It might be a few feet away or at the far end of your property, but it stands alone. These structures are often used for parking, storage, or even as workshops or home gyms.

Because they’re separate from the main dwelling, detached garages are usually classified as “other structures” in your homeowners insurance policy. This is a key point because it affects how much coverage you have and what kind of damage is included.

Want to learn more about how your property is classified? Check out our Property Claims page or visit our FAQ section for more insights.

Detached garages can be vulnerable to a range of issues, including:

• Wind damage from hurricanes or storms
• Water damage from flooding or roof leaks
• Mold growth due to poor ventilation
• Plumbing issues if the garage has water lines

Standard Insurance Coverage for Detached Garages

Most standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for “other structures,” which typically accounts for about 10% of your home’s insured value. So, if your home is insured for $300,000, your detached garage might be covered up to $30,000. Sounds good, right? Well, not so fast.

This coverage might not be enough if your garage is large, custom-built, or houses expensive equipment. And here’s the kicker—some policies only cover specific types of damage. For example, if your garage is damaged by a tree falling during a storm, you’re probably covered. But if it floods due to poor drainage? That might be a different story.

To make sure you’re fully protected, it’s a good idea to:

• Review your policy’s “other structures” section
• Consider additional coverage if your garage is high-value
• Document the contents of your garage for future claims

Need help understanding your policy? Our team at LMR Public Adjusters is just a call away. We specialize in helping homeowners like you navigate the fine print and get the coverage you deserve.

Common Exclusions and Limitations

Insurance policies are full of fine print, and when it comes to detached garages, there are plenty of exclusions and limitations to watch out for. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Business Use: If you’re using your garage as a workshop or home office, your standard policy might not cover it. You may need a separate business policy.
• Flood Damage: Most homeowners policies don’t cover flood damage. You’ll need a separate flood insurance policy for that.
• Neglect or Poor Maintenance: If your garage is falling apart due to lack of upkeep, don’t expect your insurer to foot the bill.

It’s also worth noting that some policies have lower limits for detached structures, especially if they’re not listed specifically. That’s why it’s crucial to document any damage and keep your insurer informed about any upgrades or changes to your property.

Still unsure what’s covered? Our blog is packed with helpful tips, or you can reach out to our local offices for personalized advice.

How to Maximize Your Insurance Claim

Filing an insurance claim can feel like navigating a maze blindfolded. But with the right strategy—and a little help—you can make sure you’re getting every dollar you’re entitled to. Here’s how:

1. Document Everything: Take photos and videos of the damage. Keep receipts for any repairs or upgrades.
2. Know Your Policy: Understand what’s covered and what’s not. Don’t rely solely on your insurer to tell you.
3. Get Professional Help: A public adjuster can be your secret weapon. They work for you, not the insurance company.

That’s where LMR Public Adjusters comes in. We’re not just any public adjusters—we’re Fort Lauderdale’s go-to team for maximizing claims. Whether you’re dealing with pipe bursts, wind damage, or anything in between, we’ve got your back.

We’ll handle the paperwork, negotiate with your insurer, and fight to get you the payout you deserve. Because let’s face it—insurance companies aren’t always eager to pay up.

Why Choose LMR Public Adjusters?

When disaster strikes, you need more than just a policy—you need a partner. That’s where LMR Public Adjusters shines. We’re South Florida’s premier public adjusters, and we’ve built our reputation on one thing: advocating for property owners like you.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Personalized Service: We treat every case like it’s our own. No cookie-cutter solutions here.
• Local Expertise: From Hollywood to Pembroke Pines, we know South Florida like the back of our hand.
• Proven Results: Just check out our Google reviews to see what our clients are saying.

Whether you’re in Plantation, Aventura, or Lake Worth, we’re here to help. And we don’t just handle detached garages—we cover everything from commercial properties to home damage.

Conclusion

Detached garages might be out of sight, but they shouldn’t be out of mind—especially when it comes to insurance. Understanding your coverage, knowing the limitations, and having the right team in your corner can make all the difference when disaster strikes.

At LMR Public Adjusters, we’re more than just adjusters—we’re your advocates. We’ll help you navigate the claims process, fight for what you’re owed, and make sure your detached garage (and everything in it) is properly protected.

Ready to take control of your insurance claim? Contact us today and let’s get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is typically covered under a standard policy for detached garages?

Most standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for “other structures,” which usually covers detached garages. This typically includes damage from fire, wind, hail, and vandalism. However, the coverage limit is often around 10% of your home’s insured value.

Does homeowners insurance cover flood damage to my detached garage?

No, flood damage is not typically covered under standard homeowners insurance. You’ll need a separate flood insurance policy to protect your detached garage from flooding.

Can I increase the coverage limit for my detached garage?

Yes, you can usually increase your coverage by adding an endorsement or rider to your policy. This is especially important if your garage is large, custom-built, or contains valuable items.

What if I use my detached garage for business purposes?

If your detached garage is used for business, your standard homeowners policy may not cover it. You’ll likely need a separate business insurance policy to ensure proper protection.

How can LMR Public Adjusters help with my detached garage claim?

LMR Public Adjusters can help you understand your policy, document the damage, and negotiate with your insurance company to maximize your claim. We offer personalized service and local expertise throughout South Florida.