Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Garage Door Replacement?

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Garage Door Replacement? A Complete Guide for Indianapolis Homeowners

Your garage door is one of the largest moving parts in your home—and one of the most important. It protects your vehicles, adds curb appeal, and keeps your property secure. But when a garage door gets damaged, many homeowners aren’t sure whether their homeowners insurance policy will cover the replacement cost.

At Garage Door Repair Indianapolis IN, we help customers every day who ask this exact question. Here’s a clear and detailed guide that explains what’s covered, what’s not, and how to file a claim.

When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Garage Door Replacement?

In many cases, yes, homeowners insurance does cover garage door repair or replacement—but only if the damage is caused by a covered peril.

Here are the most common situations where your policy will likely pay:

✅ 1. Damage Caused by Vehicles

If you accidentally hit your garage door with your car, most policies will cover it under the “other structures” portion of your homeowners insurance.

Important note:
Your auto insurance won’t cover it—only homeowners insurance does.

✅ 2. Storm Damage (Wind, Hail, Lightning, Snow)

If a storm knocks down or severely damages your garage door, your insurance will typically pay for repairs or replacement.

This includes:

• Wind damage

• Hail impact

• Heavy snow or ice

• Lightning strikes

✅ 3. Vandalism

If someone intentionally damages your garage door, insurance will usually cover it as long as the event is properly documented by the police.

✅ 4. Fire Damage

If a fire—either accidental or due to electrical issues—damages your garage door, replacement is almost always covered.

When Homeowners Insurance Does NOT Cover Garage Door Replacement

Not every type of damage is eligible for coverage. Here are the most common exclusions:

❌ 1. Wear and Tear

Garage doors wear out over time. Insurance will not cover:

• Rust

• Old age

• Fading

• Weak springs

• Mechanical parts that fail because of use

These are considered maintenance issues, not sudden accidents.

❌ 2. Poor Maintenance

If the insurance adjuster determines that the door was not properly maintained, the claim may be denied.

❌ 3. Damage from Flooding

Flood damage is usually not covered under standard policies unless you carry a separate flood insurance plan.

❌ 4. Earthquake Damage

Unless you have earthquake coverage, this type of damage is excluded.

How Much Will Insurance Pay?

Your policy will usually cover replacement cost, but the actual amount depends on:

• Your deductible

• Your coverage limits

• Whether the garage door is considered part of the dwelling or an “other structure”

Most garage doors fall under other structures, usually capped at 10% of your total home coverage.

How to File a Garage Door Insurance Claim (Step-by-Step)

If your garage door is damaged and you think it qualifies for coverage, here’s what to do:

1. Document the Damage

Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles.

2. Contact Your Insurance Company

Report the incident and start a claim immediately.

3. Schedule a Professional Inspection

Your insurer may require a report from a garage door technician.

At Garage Door Repair Indianapolis IN, we can inspect the damage and provide:

• A full written repair estimate

• Photos and documentation for your claim

• Professional guidance on the process

4. Meet With the Adjuster

They will review the damage and approve or deny the claim.

5. Get Your Garage Door Repaired or Replaced

Once approved, we handle the full replacement safely and professionally.

Tips to Increase Your Chance of Claim Approval

✔ Keep maintenance records
✔ Report damage immediately
✔ Provide as much evidence as possible
✔ Do not attempt DIY repairs
✔ Work with a licensed technician for inspection

Need Professional Help? We’re Here for You.

Whether your garage door was damaged by a car, storm, or accident, Garage Door Repair Indianapolis IN can help you determine whether insurance will cover the replacement—and we provide the documentation needed to support your claim.

Our Services Include:

• Garage door replacement

• Emergency repairs

• Broken spring repair

• Opener repair & installation

• Insurance claim assistance

📞 Call us today for a free estimate!
We proudly serve Indianapolis and surrounding areas.