Mine didn't really ask anything weird, but they did seem oddly interested in my garage setup... something about detached vs. attached affecting rates? Is that a common thing or just another random insurer quirk?
Yeah, insurers do get weirdly hung up on garages sometimes. Detached vs. attached can actually matter, though—had a client once whose detached garage got hit by lightning (rare, I know...), and the insurer treated it differently than if it'd been attached. Detached structures often have separate coverage limits or different risk factors. Seems nitpicky, but there's usually some logic buried in there somewhere. Still, can't blame you for thinking it's just another insurer quirk.
Had a similar thing happen with my classic Mustang—detached garage, tree limb fell during a storm. Coverage was lower than expected. Makes me wonder, anyone checked if adding extra coverage for detached structures is worth the cost? Seems like it might be...
Had a similar issue with my dad's old Camaro a couple years back—garage was detached, hailstorm did a number on the roof. Here's what I'd do: first, call your agent and ask exactly what's covered under your current policy (they love vague wording). Next, get quotes for bumping up coverage specifically for detached structures. Compare the cost difference vs. potential repair costs. Honestly, it's usually worth it if you've got anything valuable parked in there... insurance is annoying until you actually need it.
Totally agree with checking specifics through your agent first—insurance language can be annoyingly vague and tricky. Couple extra things I'd add from experience:
- Definitely clarify the actual definition of "detached structure" in your policy. I’ve seen some weird gray areas—like if your garage is connected by a breezeway or even just a covered walkway, some insurers count that as "attached," others don't. Makes a big difference in coverage limits.
- Ask specifically about hail damage deductibles. South Dakota insurers often have separate deductibles for wind and hail claims, sometimes based on a percentage of your home's insured value rather than a flat dollar amount. That can seriously impact how much you'd pay out-of-pocket if something happens.
- Also worth checking if your policy covers "actual cash value" or "replacement cost" for repairs. Actual cash value factors in depreciation, meaning you might get less money for an older roof or structure. Replacement cost coverage usually costs more upfront but pays out enough to fully repair or replace damaged parts without depreciation deductions.
- And one more thing—don't just assume your car inside the detached garage is automatically covered under homeowners insurance. Typically, vehicle damage from hail would fall under your auto policy’s comprehensive coverage, not your home policy. Might seem obvious, but I've seen people caught out by this before.
Insurance is definitely one of those things you hate paying for until the day you actually need it...then you're glad you did your homework ahead of time.
