Does Home Insurance Cover Fences? 

Here’s some good news: house insurance can cover garden fences, depending on the cause of the damage. Fences not only enhance your garden’s security but also add a touch of style, so it’s important to understand what’s covered, what isn’t, and how to keep them protected.

Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the details. 

When are fences covered by building insurance?

Garden fences fall under the buildings insurance portion of your home insurance cover, which protects the structure of your home and permanent fixtures like garden walls, garages, and outbuildings. However, coverage is usually limited to specific incidents, and you’ll need to check your policy documents for any restrictions or cover limits.

Does building insurance cover trees falling on fences?

If a tree crashes down onto your fence, buildings insurance will cover the cost of repairs, provided the tree fell due to bad weather or another insured event. However, if the tree was dead or poorly maintained, you may not be covered due to negligence.

Does building insurance cover cars crashing into fences?

If someone crashes into your fence and drives off without leaving details, a hit-and-run, your home insurance will typically cover the damage under the accidental damage or vandalism section of your buildings insurance. Always report the incident to both the police and your insurance provider as soon as possible.

When you can identify the driver, their car insurance, specifically their liability coverage, will step in to cover the repair costs. As the homeowner, it’s important to gather as much information as possible at the scene, including:

• The driver’s contact and insurance provider details
• Photos of the fence damage
• Reference number from the police

Does building insurance cover fences damaged by fire?

If your fence is damaged or destroyed in a fire, whether it started inside the house or outside, home insurance will cover it, as long as fire is included as a listed peril on your insurance policy. 

However, if the fire results from negligence, such as using your barbecues too close to your fence and burning it, your home insurance is unlikely to cover the damage.

Does building insurance cover fences damaged by vandalism?

Malicious damage such as vandalism is commonly included in home insurance cover, especially if you can provide evidence, such as police reports or CCTV footage. 

When are fences not covered by building insurance?

Not all fence damage will be eligible for a pay out. Many policies have specific exclusions you should be aware of.

Does building insurance cover storm damage to fences?

Damage caused by storm damage, high winds, or other extreme weather is one of the most common causes of fallen fences, but unfortunately, it’s also one of the most commonly excluded events. Insurers often classify fences as more vulnerable and may only cover storm or wind damage to sturdier structures like your garden shed or outbuildings.

Does building insurance cover fences damaged by subsidence?

If the ground beneath your fence posts shifts due to subsidence, your buildings insurance may not cover the resulting damage unless it’s explicitly listed.

However, if the damage to your fence happened simultaneously with subsidence damage to your home, you may be able to claim on your buildings insurance.

Does building insurance cover general wear and tear?

Fences that collapse due to age, rot, or ongoing exposure to the elements won’t be covered. This kind of fence damage falls under general wear and tear, which insurers expect homeowners to manage themselves.

Does building insurance cover damage to fences caused by negligence?

If your insurer finds you haven’t properly maintained your garden fences, for example, by ignoring signs of rot or failing to fix loose panels, they may refuse to honour your insurance claim on grounds of negligence.

Tips to maintain your fence

To reduce the chance of damage and improve your chances of a successful claim, keep your fence in good condition. Here are a few simple tips:

• Regularly check for signs of rot, loose boards, or insect damage
  
• Treat your fence panels annually with wood preserver or weatherproof paint
  
• Remove heavy plant growth or climbing vines that can strain the fence structure
  
• Make sure nearby trees are pruned to avoid branches falling in storms

Protect your garden

While your fences may be included in buildings insurance, it’s vital to understand what’s actually covered, and what isn’t. Consider combining contents insurance with garden insurance if you want added protection for items like garden furniture, garden equipment, or BBQs.

For peace of mind, make sure your insurance provider offers the right home insurance for your needs. To find the best deal on home insurance cover, including protection for your fences, get a personalised quote today.