What Is Other Structures? Earthquake Insurance Explained!
February 28, 2025
When it comes to earthquake insurance, many homeowners overlook a key component of their policy: Other Structures coverage. Understanding what qualifies as other structures, what is covered, and any sub-limits that apply can help ensure you have the right protection in place.
In this guide, we’ll break down: ✅ What Other Structures coverage is ✅ Common examples of covered structures ✅ Sub-limits that may apply ✅ A common misconception about driveways and garages
What Is Other Structures Coverage?
According to earthquake insurance policies, Other Structures coverage applies to structures on the insured property that are separate from the main dwelling. The key criteria are:
- It must be set apart from the dwelling by clear space.
- It can include structures connected to the dwelling, as long as they are outside the foundation walls and are not necessary for the home’s structural integrity or habitability.
Examples of Other Structures
✔️ Detached guest houses
✔️ Detached garages
✔️ Patios & barbecue areas
✔️ Gazebos
✔️ Retaining walls
✔️ Fences
✔️ Backyard decks
Special Consideration: Pools, Spas & Hot Tubs
A common question homeowners ask is: Are pools, spas, and hot tubs covered under Other Structures? The answer is yes, but with sub-limits that vary by carrier.
✔️ Palomar – Covers up to $50,000 for pools, spas, and hot tubs.
✔️ GeoVera – Provides $25,000 or $50,000 depending on your dwelling coverage. If your dwelling is insured for over $500,000, you get $50,000 in pool coverage; if it’s under $500,000, you get $25,000.
✔️ Zurich – No sub-limits for pools, meaning it will pay up to the full Other Structures coverage amount.
Common Misconception: Is My Driveway Covered?
Many homeowners assume that driveways fall under Other Structures coverage, but that is not the case. Since the driveway serves as an entrance and exit essential to the habitability of the home, it is actually part of dwelling coverage. The same applies to attached garages, which are included in the main dwelling coverage rather than Other Structures.
Why Other Structures Coverage Matters
Having the right Other Structures coverage ensures that essential parts of your property—such as detached garages, patios, pools, and fences—are protected after an earthquake. However, sub-limits on pool and spa coverage can vary widely among insurers, making it important to select the right earthquake insurance provider.
Get a Free Quote & Customize Your Earthquake Insurance Policy
Now that you have a better understanding of Other Structures coverage, it’s time to review your policy and make sure you have the right protection.
Final Thoughts
Not all earthquake insurance policies offer the same coverage for Other Structures, and sub-limits can vary significantly between private earthquake insurance providers. By choosing the right insurer, you can ensure that detached structures, pools, and fences are properly covered when disaster strikes.