Are boat docks covered by homeowners insurance?

If you own a boat, the dock can feel like part of the package—a place to tie up, unload gear, and kick back by the water. So, it’s natural to ask: Does homeowners insurance cover a dock?

The answer is it depends on who owns the dock, where it’s located, and how it’s classified on your policy. Let’s take a closer look.

When a dock may be covered by homeowners insurance

In many cases, a dock on your primary residence may be eligible for coverage, often under other structures coverage—sometimes called Coverage B— because it’s a structure on your property that’s separate from your home. Dock insurance coverage varies among insurance companies and by state and policy form, so check with your agent to understand the ins and outs of your policy’s available additional coverages.

If you have a seasonal, removable dock that you can take out for winter, for example, it may be covered under your personal property insurance coverage—sometimes called Coverage C. How it’s handled can vary depending on ownership, location, and policy language, so it’s worth confirming with your agent.

When a dock typically isn’t covered

Homeowners insurance generally won’t cover a dock or slip that you don’t own, such as one you rent or lease from a marina. In that case, it’s usually the marina’s responsibility to insure the dock itself, although you may still want to protect your own property and liability exposures.

What dock coverage may not include

Even when a dock is eligible for coverage, exclusions and limits can apply. Common examples that may not be covered include:

• Freeze-related damage: like ice that damages the dock
• Collapse of the dock: unless the collapse is caused by a covered event, such as a building falling onto it
• Flood-related damage: including damage from rising water
• High winds/severe wave action: resulting in damage

Your policy may cover certain causes of loss—often things like fire or wind and hail damage—but keep in mind that the specifics vary. Your deductible, limits, and endorsements also matter.

Does flood insurance cover docks?

Often, flood insurance won’t cover damage to a dock, but coverage details can be nuanced and depend on the type of policy as well as what’s being insured. If flood is a concern where you live, your agent can walk you through what your policies do and don’t cover and what options may be available.

The best next step: Confirm how your dock is listed on your policy

If you own a dock, connect with your American Family Insurance agent today to review your coverage. Ask questions like:

• Is my dock considered other structures or personal property?
• Do I have enough other structures coverage for replacement or repair?
• Are there endorsements available that better fit my situation?
• What causes of loss apply to my dock?

And if you’re out on the water often, consider boat insurance to help protect your boat and offer personal liability coverage while it’s in use.

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.