Posted on October 4, 2022
ICHQ | Site Author
Many homeowners are confused about sheds and other outbuildings when it comes to homeowners insurance, and it can be an important issue when it comes to your homeowners’ claim.
Generally, homeowners policies address damage to sheds when the damage is incurred during a covered event, such as a fire or exceptionally high winds. Depending upon your policy, it may also cover damage to the belongings inside your shed.
If you have questions or concerns about a homeowners claim, you shouldn’t wait to discuss the matter with an experienced New Orleans homeowners insurance claim attorney.
Hurricane-Related Insurance for Other Structures
Homeowners insurance not only covers damage to your home’s structure and your belongings but also covers detached structures on your property, such as the following:
- Sheds
- Guesthouses
- Gazebos
- Detached garages
- Barns
- Carports
- Greenhouses
Each of these is addressed by the other structures component of your policy. It’s important to note that this other-structure coverage is typically limited to 10 percent of your overall homeowner’s coverage. If you don’t consider this amount adequate, you’ll need to purchase additional coverage.
Insurance for outbuildings applies to the same kinds of damage your home is covered for, including:
- Fire
- Weather-related damage
- Vandalism
- Burglary
Hurricane Damage to Outbuildings
Louisiana is no stranger to hurricanes, and the immense wind they create can flatten a shed or outbuilding in the work of a moment. Wind damage from hurricanes, however, can cause a wide range of damage, including any combination of the following:
- Roof damage
- Damage to siding
- Broken windows
- Damage caused by fallen trees
- Fire damage caused by downed electrical wires
While general homeowners policies cover wind damage, the high winds Louisiana has experienced during recent hurricane seasons can easily exceed coverage.
Protecting Your Claim for a Hurricane-Damaged Shed
If your shed has been damaged in a storm – or by any other covered event – you’ll file a claim with your homeowners’ insurance provider. Unfortunately, not every insurance company is on the up and up when covering claims in good faith. If you recognize any of the following practices, it’s time to consult with a dedicated homeowners insurance claim attorney:
- If your insurance provider denies what you believe is a valid claim out of hand
- If your insurance provider overcomplicates or delays the claims process
- If your insurance provider undervalues your claim
Speak with an Experienced New Orleans Homeowners Insurance Claim Attorney Today
If your shed or outbuilding was damaged by a covered event — such as wind damage from a hurricane — and the insurance company is not treating you fairly, act now. The accomplished New Orleans homeowners insurance claim attorneys at Insurance Claim HQ recognize the challenges you face and dedicate their practice to helping clients like you prevail with fair claim resolutions. Learn more by contacting us today.
The content provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject.
