Is there insurance for boat docks?

Are boat docks covered by homeowners insurance?

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 and minus any deductible.

What damages to your boat dock are excluded from homeowners insurance?

Private docks are often exposed to harsh winds, rain, and other weather-related perils that may increase the chances of your dock being damaged. While personal property coverage or other structures coverage may protect your dock against perils listed on your homeowners policy, certain types of severe weather damage won't be covered, such as:

• Freezing, thawing, and weight of water and ice
• A collapse, unless the damage is caused by a falling building
• Flooding

Are seawalls covered by homeowners insurance?

Seawalls act as retaining walls for those who live in coastal areas and may protect properties from erosion. Most homeowners insurance policies typically consider retaining walls and privately owned seawalls as detached structures and may provide coverage against damage caused by fire, lightning, windstorms, hail, vandalism, and vehicles.

Damage resulting from freezing or thawing may not be covered under homeowners insurance. Flooding, lack of maintenance, animal damage, and damage from a foundation settling are typically excluded.

Does flood insurance cover docks?

If a flood damages your dock, it likely won't be covered by flood insurance. The National Flood Insurance Program, which can provide flood insurance for eligible U.S. homeowners, typically doesn't cover the following:

• Docks and bridges
• Piers and bulkheads
• Seawalls and wharves
• Retaining walls and fences

What happens if your dock at a marina or yacht club is damaged?

The marina/club owner is responsible for maintaining and insuring the dock. However, if you cause damage to a dock at a club or marina, boat insurance liability coverage may pay to repair or replace the dock, up to the limits of your coverage.

How to get boat insurance