Boat Dock Insurance: What's Covered And What's Not

If you own a boat, you may be wondering if your homeowner's insurance covers the dock where you moor it. Generally, if the dock is on your primary residence, you can protect your property for a covered event up to your policy's limits. However, there are many nuances to consider when it comes to boat dock insurance coverage, and it's important to understand the specifics of your policy. In this article, we will explore the different types of insurance policies that cover private docks and marinas, the exclusions that may apply, and steps you can take to protect your boat dock.

Boat dock insurance options

If you own a boat dock, you may be wondering about your insurance options. Boat docks are vulnerable to a range of weather-related perils, from gales and storms to hurricanes and tornadoes. They are also susceptible to damage from boats and vehicles, as well as vandalism and theft. Here are some insurance options to consider for your boat dock.

Homeowner's Insurance

If your boat dock is located on your primary residence property, it may be covered under your homeowner's insurance policy. However, this depends on the specifics of your policy, as some insurers may consider docks to be personal property rather than structures. It's important to review your policy carefully and consult with your insurance agent to confirm whether your boat dock is covered.

Other Structures Coverage

If your homeowner's insurance policy does not include coverage for your boat dock, you may be able to add "Other Structures" coverage to your policy. This type of coverage typically protects structures that are separate from your primary residence, such as sheds, detached garages, and in-ground swimming pools. However, it's important to note that even with this additional coverage, certain types of damage, such as freezing, thawing, and flood damage, may still be excluded.

Boat Insurance

Some insurers offer boat insurance policies that include dock insurance as a supplemental cover. This can be a convenient option for boat owners who want to bundle their coverage. These policies typically provide coverage for physical damage to the boat and personal liability in case someone is injured on board.

Commercial General Liability (CGL) Insurance

If you rent out your dock to other boaters or use it for commercial purposes, you will need a CGL policy. This type of insurance protects your business from financial liabilities and losses and covers personal injury and property damage claims. It can also provide coverage for flood-related losses and damages.

Standalone Dock Insurance

If your existing policies do not provide adequate coverage for your boat dock, you may consider a tailored policy specifically designed for docks. This option may be particularly useful if you have a floating dock, as these are often more vulnerable to damage and may not be covered under other types of insurance.

Flood Insurance

While flood insurance is generally not included in homeowner's insurance and may not cover boat docks, it is worth checking with your insurance agent to see if there are any circumstances under which your dock would be covered for flood damage.

Additional Endorsements or Riders

You may also consider adding endorsements or riders to your existing policy to enhance your coverage. These can provide protection against specific perils or increase the limit of your plan.

Remember, it's important to regularly review your policies, communicate with your insurance agent, and seek specialized advice if needed to ensure that your boat dock is adequately protected.

What is covered by boat insurance?

Boat insurance covers a range of incidents and damages, but it's important to note that policies differ between insurers, so it's always best to check with your provider. That said, here is a general overview of what is typically covered by boat insurance.

Firstly, if your boat is damaged in a covered incident, your insurance will usually pay for repairs or replacements. This includes damage to the hull and engine, as well as sails, personal property, and other equipment required to operate the boat. Comprehensive coverage also protects your boat from events outside of your control, including theft, vandalism, explosions, fire, falling objects, hurricanes, lightning, and other weather-related issues. Collision coverage pays for damage to your boat if you collide with another object or boat, regardless of fault, and also covers you if your boat capsizes.

Liability coverage is another important aspect of boat insurance. This covers your legal obligations to third parties, including bodily injury, loss of life, or damage to someone else's property. It also includes damage caused to docks, pilings, and other boats, as well as injuries to passengers and other boaters. Liability coverage also often extends to fuel spill remediation and wreckage removal if your boat sinks.

Some policies also offer coverage for on-water towing, mechanical breakdowns, water sports equipment, and fishing gear. Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage is also available, which pays for injuries to you and your passengers if you are hit by a boater with insufficient insurance, up to your policy limit. Medical payments coverage will also pay for the medical bills for you and your passengers in the event of a covered accident, regardless of fault.

It's worth noting that boat insurance typically does not cover maintenance or general wear and tear, including damage from animals or marine life, and gradual weathering or deterioration.

What is covered by home insurance?

Home insurance is designed to protect against unexpected property damage and potential liabilities for personal injury. The foundational components often encompass personal property coverage, structures coverage, and liability protection.

When it comes to boat docks, it can be a little more complicated. If the dock is located on your property, your home insurance policy may pay for damage to your dock from covered perils, which may include fire, lightning, windstorms, and hail. However, some insurers may not cover boat docks under a home insurance policy, though some may give you the option of adding dock coverage.

If your boat dock is located at your residence, other structures coverage on your homeowners insurance policy may cover damage to the dock from a covered peril. However, some insurance companies may consider docks that can be removed to be personal property instead of an actual structure on your property. In this case, personal property coverage may cover your dock up to your policy's limit.

If you own a boat, it's important to check with your insurance company to see what your homeowners insurance covers. Dock insurance coverage varies from company to company, and you may need to add other structures coverage to your policy to protect your boat dock.

It's also worth noting that certain types of damage are typically excluded from home insurance coverage for boat docks. These exclusions may include:

• Damage caused by freezing, thawing, and the weight of water and ice.
• Damage caused by a collapse unless the damage is caused by a falling building.
• Damage caused by high winds and related damage from waves.
• Flooding or hurricanes.
• Animal damage or insect infestation.
• Settling of the foundation or pier.

To ensure that your boat dock is adequately protected, it's important to review your home insurance policy carefully and consider adding additional coverage or endorsements if necessary.

What is not covered by insurance?

Boat docks are usually not covered under a boat insurance policy. However, if your dock is located on your property, your home insurance policy may cover damage to your dock from specific perils, such as fire, lightning, windstorms, and hail.

It is important to note that not all types of damage are covered by home insurance policies. Here is a detailed list of what is typically not covered by insurance:

• Freeze-related damage: Most standard home insurance policies exclude physical damage resulting from freezing and thawing, as well as the pressure exerted by the water the dock is situated on. This includes damage caused by the weight or pressure of snow, water, or ice accumulated on or around the dock.
• Dock collapse: Insurance typically does not cover the collapse of the dock itself unless it is caused by another object, such as a building, falling onto it.
• Wind and wave damage: High winds and related damage from waves are often excluded from coverage. Strong winds can cause extreme wave action, which can tear the dock apart and damage boats moored nearby.
• Flooding and hurricanes: Flooding and hurricanes are generally not covered under home insurance policies. If you live in an area prone to flooding or hurricanes, you may need to purchase separate flood insurance to protect your dock.
• Animal damage or insect infestation: Damage caused by animals or insects is typically not covered by insurance. This includes damage from termites, mice, or other pests that may compromise the integrity of the dock's structure.
• Foundation settling: The settling of the foundation or pier is usually not covered by insurance. This type of damage can occur over time due to various factors, such as soil movement or improper construction.
• Rented or detached docks: If you rent a dock from a marina, your insurance will not cover it. It is the responsibility of the marina to insure rented docks. Additionally, if your dock is detached from your primary residence, it may require a separate endorsement or policy for coverage.
• Seawalls and retaining walls: Seawalls and retaining walls are often considered detached structures and may not be covered by your home insurance policy. They are typically covered under separate flood insurance policies or excluded altogether.

It is important to carefully review your insurance policy to understand what is and is not covered. The specific inclusions and exclusions can vary between insurance providers, so it is always best to consult with your insurance agent to confirm the details of your coverage.

What type of cover should I take?

The type of cover you should take depends on several factors. Firstly, the type of dock you have. Fixed docks, for example, are often considered 'other structures' and are covered by certain perils, such as fire or vandalism. Floating docks, on the other hand, are more susceptible to damage and may not always be covered under the 'other structures' clause, especially if they are easily movable. Removable docks may be considered personal property and covered under your personal property insurance.

Secondly, the location of your dock is important. Docks attached to your primary residence are often covered under your homeowner's insurance, whereas detached docks may require additional coverage. If your dock is located at a marina, it is usually the responsibility of the marina to insure it.

Thirdly, the usage of your dock is a factor. If you are using your dock for commercial purposes, such as renting it out to other boaters, you will need a commercial policy, such as a Commercial General Liability (CGL) policy. This type of policy will cover you for personal injury and property damage claims.

Finally, it's important to consider the potential risks and damages your dock may be subjected to. Docks are exposed to various weather-related perils, such as gales, rain, and storms. They are also at risk of damage from boats or vehicles losing control and ramming into the infrastructure. Environmental damage, such as improper waste management, can also compromise the integrity of the dock.

When deciding on the type of cover to take, it's crucial to review your policy carefully and consult with an insurance agent to understand the specifics of your coverage.

Frequently asked questions