Gardens sit slightly outside the main policy focus
Home insurance is built around the structure first, contents second. Gardens come a little way behind.
That does not mean they are ignored, but the rules tend to be tighter and the limits lower.
Where sheds and outbuildings usually sit in a policy
Most standard policies include sheds as part of the buildings section.
The catch is in how the shed is built and used.
Permanent versus temporary structures
Insurers draw a clear line here.
- Timber sheds fixed to a base
- Brick or block-built outbuildings
- Greenhouses and lean-tos
- Temporary or movable storage units
What damage is commonly insured
Storm and impact claims are the most common.
Fallen trees, flying debris and roof panels removed by wind account for the bulk of shed-related claims.
Storm definitions matter more than people expect
Wind damage is not assessed casually.
Insurers usually apply specific wind-speed thresholds or require evidence of wider storm damage in the area.
Wear, rot and age-related failure
This is where claims often stop.
Rotten panels, rusted fixings and long-term water ingress are normally treated as maintenance issues.
Garden furniture under contents insurance
Furniture is usually covered as contents, not buildings.
That places it under different limits and conditions.
Typical limits for outdoor items
Policies often cap what can be claimed for items kept outside.
- Lower single-item limits
- Reduced total garden contents limits
- Exclusions for unattended items
Theft from gardens and sheds
Security requirements are usually stricter outdoors.
Unlocked sheds or items left unsecured in open gardens are a common reason for partial or declined claims.
What insurers usually expect to see
Basic precautions make a difference.
- Sheds secured with appropriate locks
- Valuable tools not visible from outside
- Furniture stored or secured in severe weather
Storm preparation and claim outcomes
Claims can hinge on whether reasonable steps were taken.
Lightweight furniture left loose during forecast high winds is treated differently from sudden, unexpected damage.
Damage to plants, lawns and landscaping
This is where cover becomes thin.
Most policies exclude plants, shrubs and lawns entirely, or provide only limited cover after specific events.
Tree damage and responsibility
If a tree from your garden damages your shed, it is usually treated as your claim.
If a neighbour’s tree falls, liability questions may arise before the buildings section responds.
Shared fences and boundary structures
Fences often sit in a grey area.
Some policies include them as standard, others apply low limits or exclude storm damage altogether.
Claims evidence and valuation
Garden claims tend to be practical rather than forensic.
Insurers usually want photos, proof of ownership for higher-value items, and confirmation of how the damage occurred.
Why garden claims feel stricter than house claims
Outdoor items face higher exposure and faster wear.
Policies reflect that reality through limits, exclusions and closer scrutiny rather than outright refusal.