Garage Damage: What Your Insurance May Cover
Attached vs. detached garage coverage
An attached garage is part of your dwelling and is covered under Coverage A (dwelling coverage) of your homeowner policy. A detached garage is an 'other structure' covered under Coverage B, which is typically 10% of your dwelling coverage. This distinction matters because Coverage B has its own separate limit.
A major repair to a detached garage eats into that separate pool of coverage, not your dwelling coverage.
Common types of garage damage
Vehicle impact (someone backing into the garage door or structure) is one of the most common causes. Storm damage from wind, hail, or falling trees affects garage doors, roofing, and siding. Water damage from burst pipes, water heater failures, or roof leaks affects drywall, flooring, and stored contents.
Theft of items stored in the garage is covered under your personal property coverage, subject to any applicable sub-limits.
Garage door replacement
Garage doors are the most frequently damaged garage component. A standard single-car door costs $500-$1,500 to replace including the opener. A double-car insulated door with a belt-drive opener can cost $1,500-$3,500.
Wind-rated doors required in hurricane zones cost even more. If your door has windows, decorative hardware, or insulationInsulation Types and R-Values ExplainedInsulation is rated by R-value, which measures its resistance to heat transfer. Higher R-values mean better insulation. When your insurance repairs...
Read more →, the replacement should match. Garage door damage from wind often qualifies under your wind deductibleUnderstanding Your Insurance DeductibleYour deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage begins. Deductibles can be a flat dollar amount or a percentage ...
Read more →.
Contents and stored property
Tools, equipment, sporting goods, and other items stored in your garage are covered under personal property (Coverage C). However, certain categories have sub-limits. Power tools, bicycles, and sporting equipment may have individual or category limits.
Motorized vehicles like ATVs or motorcycles are typically excluded from homeowner policies and require separate coverage. Review your policy for garage-specific exclusions and sub-limits.
What to do
Document all garage damage with photos, including the structure, door, and any affected contents. Determine whether your garage is attached or detached because it affects which coverage applies. If a vehicle caused the damage, the at-fault driver's auto insurance may cover it before your homeowner policy.
For storm damage, file promptly and note whether the damage falls under your standard or wind deductible. Inventory damaged contents with descriptions and replacement values.
See how this applies to your property
Upload photos of your damage and get a detailed analysis showing exactly where your estimate may fall short.