A fence is a big investment, so it’s natural to wonder if homeowner’s insurance will step in should something happen to it. We thought we’d take a moment to talk about that.
Here’s the short answer: yes…if you have the right coverage.
Fortunately, the coverage type you need is pretty common. It’s called “other structures” coverage, and it’s the same coverage that protects, say, your garage.
Take out your policy and have a look at what it says. If “other structures coverage” is missing then call your insurance agent to get it added.
Insurance will not cover everything that could possibly happen to your fence.
If you dent your vinyl fence with a weed whacker or fail to stain your cedar fence, then you’ll have to pay for the associated repairs out of pocket.
However, if a storm damages your fence then you should be able to get a claim check for that. Trees which land on your fence will typically be covered as well, even if the fence belongs to your neighbor.
Keep in mind every insurance policy comes with a deductible. If your deductible is $1000 and the grand total for your fence repair is only $332.89, then you’ll still have to pay for the repair out of pocket, since you have to meet your deductible first.
Get the estimate first.
If you know the cost of your fence repair will be less expensive than your deductible, then you should avoid making the claim. Claims raise your rates, and they could make it harder for you to obtain insurance in the future.
If dealing with the insurance company isn’t going to be worth the hassle then you should absolutely avoid it. You don’t want them to cancel on you, and you don’t want to put yourself in a position where you cannot get homeowner’s insurance.
Fortunately, a well-built, properly maintained fence rarely offers much trouble.
If you’re going to put a fence on your property, go with a sturdy, well-made one that’s really only likely to need repairs during some sort of insurable event. If you live in Mequon, Fox Point, or anywhere else in the Milwaukee metro area, call us. We’ll build you a fence that will last!
