Does homeowners insurance cover landscape improvements?

Check your policy to confirm which losses are covered. For example, damage to trees, shrubs and plants caused by fire, vandalism, theft and vehicles (other than your own) is often insured. Damage from pests, wind, hail, flood, ice, cold weather, etc. is not. Look for restrictions on the claim settlement amount. Many policies pay $500 for a single tree, plant or shrub and cap the payout amount at five percent of the dwelling coverage limit.

Landscape improvements sometimes include sheds, fences and other constructions. Homeowners insurance covers structures located on the property but not attached to the house up to the appurtenant property limit (Coverage B) stated on the policy declaration page. Policies often limit appurtenant structures to ten percent of the dwelling limit. Standard homeowners policies provide all-risk coverage on appurtenant structures except for losses specifically outlined in the contract. Wind, hail, fire, tornado are examples of covered losses.

Your garden and landscaping tools are personal property. Homeowners insurance covers contents (Coverage C) up to the limit stated on the policy declaration page. Most policies cap personal belongings at fifty percent of the dwelling limit. Standard homeowners insurance policies provide named peril coverage on contents and depreciate loss settlements. Fire, theft and vandalism are examples of covered contents losses.

Insurers offer a variety of add-ons that expand coverage for specific needs. Be familiar with the terms of your policy and ask your homeowners insurance agent about optional endorsements for landscaping if necessary.