Your garage door is one of the largest moving parts of your home, providing security, convenience, and curb appeal. But what happens when it gets damaged—will your homeowners’ insurance cover the repairs or replacement? The answer depends on the cause of the damage and the details of your policy. Here’s what you need to know about homeowners’ insurance and garage door repairs.

When Homeowners’ Insurance Covers Garage Door Repairs

Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies cover garage door repairs under certain conditions. Here are some common scenarios where your insurance might help:

1. Damage from Severe Weather

If a storm, high winds, hail, or falling debris (such as a tree branch) damages your garage door, your homeowners’ insurance will likely cover the repairs or replacement. However, coverage may vary based on your policy and location, especially in high-risk areas for hurricanes or tornadoes.

2. Damage from Theft or Vandalism

If someone breaks into your garage and damages the door in the process, or if vandals intentionally damage it, your policy will likely cover the repairs. Be sure to file a police report and document the damage for your insurance claim.

3. Damage from Fire

If a fire damages or destroys your garage door, it will generally be covered under the dwelling or structure portion of your policy. Smoke damage may also be included, depending on the extent of the fire.

4. Vehicle Damage (by Someone Else)

If another driver crashes into your garage door—whether it’s a neighbor, delivery driver, or a visitor—your homeowners’ insurance might cover the damage, but only if the driver’s auto insurance doesn’t. The responsible party’s car insurance should be the first source of coverage, but if they are uninsured or underinsured, your policy may step in.

When Homeowners’ Insurance May Not Cover Garage Door Repairs

There are situations where your homeowners’ insurance won’t pay for garage door damage, including:

1. Wear and Tear or Lack of Maintenance

Insurance policies don’t cover damage caused by normal aging, rust, or general wear and tear. If your garage door stops working due to old parts or poor maintenance, you’ll likely have to cover the repair costs yourself.

2. Accidental Damage by the Homeowner

If you or a family member accidentally back into your garage door with your car, your homeowners’ insurance probably won’t cover the damage. Instead, you may need to file a claim under your auto insurance policy (collision coverage) to pay for the repair.

3. Damage from Pests or Rodents

If your garage door is damaged by pests like termites, mice, or raccoons, insurance typically won’t cover the repairs. Homeowners’ insurance policies generally exclude damage from pests and rodents.

4. Flood or Earthquake Damage

Most standard policies do not cover damage caused by floods or earthquakes. If you live in an area prone to these disasters, you may need to purchase additional coverage to protect your home, including your garage door.

How to File a Claim for Garage Door Repairs

If your garage door is damaged and you believe it’s covered by insurance, follow these steps to file a claim:

1. Document the Damage – Take clear photos and videos of the damage to use as evidence.
2. Review Your Policy – Check your insurance policy to see what types of damage are covered.
3. Contact Your Insurance Provider – Call your insurer as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process.
4. Get a Repair Estimate – A professional garage door technician can assess the damage and provide a repair or replacement estimate.
5. Work with an Adjuster – Your insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the damage before approving the claim.
6. Schedule Repairs – Once the claim is approved, you can proceed with professional garage door repairs or replacement.

Final Thoughts

While homeowners’ insurance can cover garage door repairs in certain situations, it’s important to understand the limits of your policy. Damage from storms, vandalism, fire, and external vehicle crashes is usually covered, but normal wear and tear or accidental damage by the homeowner typically isn’t.

If your garage door needs repair, State Line Garage Doors can help! Whether you’re filing an insurance claim or covering the repair yourself, our experienced team provides reliable service and expert guidance. Contact us today for a free estimate!