Spring is here, and if you’re like many Florida homeowners, you’re spending more time outdoors—planting flowers, trimming trees, and getting your yard ready for the warmer months. But have you ever thought about what happens if a storm, fire, or even an accident damages your landscaping?
Many homeowners assume their insurance will cover any damage, but the reality is a bit more complicated. Let’s break down what’s covered, what’s not, and how you can protect your outdoor space.
What Your Homeowners Insurance Covers
Most standard homeowners insurance policies provide some protection for landscaping, but it’s limited. Here’s what’s typically covered:
✅ Fire
✅ Lightning
✅ Explosions
✅ Vandalism
✅ Certain storm damage, like hurricanes and wind
For example, if a lightning strike damages a tree or a strong windstorm uproots part of your landscaping, your insurance may help cover the removal and replacement costs. However, coverage is usually capped at a percentage of your home’s insured value—typically around 5% of your dwelling coverage, with a per-tree or shrub limit.
This means if you have an expensive palm tree or high-end landscaping, you might not receive full reimbursement for its replacement.
What’s NOT Covered?
Many homeowners are caught off guard by what their insurance doesn’t cover. Here are a few common exclusions:
❌ Flood damage – Landscaping damage caused by flooding is not covered under standard homeowners insurance. You’ll need a separate flood insurance policy for protection.
❌ Pest damage – If termites, invasive species, or other pests damage your trees or yard, insurance won’t cover it.
❌ Poor maintenance – If your lawn dies due to lack of watering, or trees weaken due to neglect, insurance won’t step in to help.
❌ Tree disease or rot – If a tree on your property dies due to disease or decay, your insurance typically won’t cover its removal or replacement.
And what if your neighbor’s tree falls onto your yard? Unless they were negligent—meaning they ignored a rotting or hazardous tree—your own insurance policy is usually responsible for the damage, not theirs. This surprises a lot of homeowners!
What About Outdoor Structures?
If you’ve invested time and money into your yard, you likely have additional features like fences, sheds, or gazebos. The good news is that these are typically covered under your homeowners policy, but with limits.
💡 Detached structures, like sheds or fences, are usually covered up to 10% of your dwelling coverage.
For example, if a hurricane knocks down your fence or damages your shed, you may not receive full reimbursement unless you have additional coverage.
How to Protect Your Yard This Spring
If you take pride in your yard, it’s worth ensuring it’s properly protected. Here are a few key steps:
✔ Check your coverage limits – Call your Trusted Insurance Advisor to find out exactly how much coverage you have for landscaping and outdoor structures.
✔ Consider additional coverage – If you’ve invested heavily in your yard, a policy endorsement or rider can provide extra protection for high-value landscaping.
✔ Secure trees and outdoor features – Use stakes for young trees, trim overgrown branches regularly, and tie down patio furniture before storm season.
✔ Invest in flood insurance – If you live in a flood-prone area, standard homeowners insurance won’t cover landscaping damage from rising water. A separate flood insurance policy can help.
Your Yard Is an Investment—Make Sure It’s Protected!
Your landscaping isn’t just about curb appeal—it adds value to your home. But without the right coverage, you could be left paying out of pocket if a storm, accident, or unexpected damage occurs.
At Vermost Insurance Agency, we’re here to help you navigate your homeowners insurance and ensure that both your home and your yard are fully protected. 🌿🏡
📞 Call us today at 727-748-2886 to review your coverage before storm season hits!
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