Chapter Overview of the Typical Contents Inside Secondary Structures
Secondary structures are additional buildings on a property that provide extra functionality, storage, or living space beyond the primary residence. These structures can serve a wide range of purposes, from housing vehicles and equipment to providing extra living or work space and similarly have a variety of items associated with each.
Below is a high-level overview of common secondary structures and examples of their probable contents that we will go through in deeper details with the following pages:
1. Barn
Common Contents (some of which are only covered with a separate insurance Policy):
Livestock: Horses, cows, goats, or other farm animals, along with feed and watering systems.
Farming Equipment: Tractors, plows, hay bales, and tools for maintaining the property or animals.
Storage: Hay lofts, stalls, and tack rooms for saddles, bridles, and other farm gear.
Utilities: Ventilation systems, lights, and water lines for animal care.
Relevance: Barns are essential for agricultural operations or for housing animals. They often double as storage for farm equipment and supplies.
2. Detached Garage
Common Contents:
Vehicles: Cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, and possibly boats or recreational vehicles.
Tools: Power tools, tool chests, and workbenches for vehicle maintenance or DIY projects.
Storage: Shelving units, storage bins, and hooks for organizing outdoor gear, sports equipment, or seasonal items.
Accessories: Car lifts, tire racks, and vehicle covers.
Relevance: Detached garages provide secure storage for vehicles and can serve as a workshop or additional storage space for homeowners who need extra room outside the primary residence.
3. Guest House
Common Contents:
Living Spaces: Beds, seating, tables, and other furniture for guests to use during their stay.
Appliances: Small kitchen appliances like a refrigerator, microwave, and stove, as well as laundry machines if it’s a fully equipped space.
Decor: Curtains, rugs, and art to make the guest house comfortable and inviting.
Utilities: Heating and cooling systems, lighting, and Plumbing for guest comfort.
Relevance: Guest houses offer private accommodations for visitors or extended family, often including everything needed for independent living. They can also be used for rental income or long-term guests.
4. Pool House
Common Contents:
Pool Equipment: Pumps, filters, pool chemicals, and cleaning supplies.
Changing Area: Towels, swimwear storage, showers, and seating for pool users.
Kitchenette: Small refrigerators, cabinets, and outdoor grills for poolside entertaining.
Entertainment: Poolside seating, TVs, and speakers for outdoor gatherings.
Relevance: Pool houses serve as a convenient space for storing pool-related equipment and offering changing facilities. They can also double as entertainment spaces during outdoor gatherings.
5. Shop
Common Contents:
Tools & Equipment: Power tools, saws, drills, and machinery for woodworking, metalworking, or other crafts.
Materials: Lumber, metal, or other raw materials used for building or crafting projects.
Storage: Workbenches, tool chests, and shelving to organize supplies and finished products.
Safety Gear: Safety goggles, gloves, and first aid kits to ensure safe working conditions.
Relevance: A shop is essential for homeowners who need dedicated space for construction, repairs, or crafts. It provides a practical and organized area to carry out hobby or professional work.
6. Studio
Common Contents:
Art Supplies: Paints, brushes, canvases, sketchpads, and other materials for creative work.
Workspaces: Easels, drafting tables, desks, and seating to facilitate work on artistic projects.
Storage: Cabinets and shelving for organizing art supplies and tools.
Lighting: Specialized lighting for photography, painting, or other studio work.
Relevance: Studios are designed to provide a quiet, focused environment for artistic or creative endeavors, offering dedicated space for painting, photography, design, or other creative projects.
Learn More
Though the inventory inside your primary home and inside a separate structure is always covered under Personal Property, it’s still worth going into each of the major structures found on homeowner’s properties to quickly highlight additional thoughts. Each of the articles in this chapter unpacks one type of building to get you started.