Does homeowners insurance cover a louvered pergola?
It depends on your policy, your insurer, and where you live. Homeowners policies differ a lot, and only your insurance company or agent can tell you how a louvered pergola would be treated under yours.
What you can do is ask the right questions before you order, and keep good records once it’s built. This article walks through both.
Why can’t anyone give a simple yes or no?
Insurance policies are contracts, and the details vary by company, by state, and by the options you chose. Two neighbors with similar houses can have very different coverage.
A louvered pergola also isn’t a typical backyard item. It is a permanent aluminum structure on a foundation, with a motor hidden in the frame and a power connection. Your insurer may want to know about each of those things.
That is why the best answer comes from your own policy and your own agent.
When should you call your insurer?
Two good times:
- Before you order. You will learn whether the pergola affects your policy, and whether there is anything your insurer wants to see.
- After it is installed. Let them know it is there, so your policy reflects your property as it is.
If you are buying the pergola as part of a larger project, such as a new patio or outdoor kitchen, mention the whole project in the same call.
What questions should you ask your insurer?
Bring a list. These questions cover the main points:
- Would a louvered pergola on my property be covered, and under which part of my policy?
- Does it matter whether the pergola stands on its own or is placed against the house?
- Are there limits that apply to structures like this?
- What kinds of damage would be covered, and what would not be?
- How would the motor and power connection be treated?
- Do I need to update my policy or add anything after installation?
- What records or photos would you want if I ever made a claim?
Write down the answers, the date, and who you spoke with.
For how a pergola can be mounted on your site, see our freestanding vs wall-mounted guide and ask [email protected] about your layout.
Do permits and licensed work matter?
Ask your insurer this directly. Either way, permits and licensed work are part of doing the project properly.
- Permits. Check with your local building department before you build. Our pergola permit guide explains what to ask. We cannot promise any approval.
- Electrical work. The motor needs a permanent power connection, planned and installed by a licensed electrician. See motorized pergola electrical requirements.
- Foundation. Confirm the foundation against the product drawings and local codes. See what foundation a louvered pergola needs.
What records should you keep?
Good records help if you ever need to talk with your insurer about the pergola. Keep these together in one folder, paper or digital:
- Your order confirmation and receipt
- Any product documents that came with your order for your size, 10×13 or 10×20
- Permits and inspection records
- Your electrician’s invoice and any permit for the electrical work
- Photos of the finished pergola from several angles
- Notes from your conversation with your insurer
Update the photos from time to time, especially after any changes to the patio around it.
Does maintenance matter to an insurer?
Ask your insurer how they view maintenance. Either way, regular care keeps the pergola working and looking its best:
- Follow the care instructions supplied with your pergola.
- Clear leaves and debris from the beam channels so water drains.
- Check the finish and fasteners a few times a year.
Our article on motorized pergola maintenance has the full routine. If something isn’t working after you order, contact [email protected].
What should you plan before you order?
- Call your insurer with the questions above.
- Check permits and HOA rules.
- Plan the foundation and the electrical work.
- Choose your size with the size guide.
- Email [email protected] with your site and installation questions.
FAQ
Does homeowners insurance cover a louvered pergola?
It depends on your policy and insurer. Ask your insurance company or agent before you order and again after installation.
Should I tell my insurer about a new pergola?
Ask them whether they want to know about permanent additions to your property, and follow their answer.
What documents should I keep?
Your receipt, any product documents from your order, permits, the electrician’s invoice, and photos of the finished pergola.
Can Louvano tell me if I’m covered?
No. Only your insurer can answer coverage questions. For product questions before you order, email [email protected]. More answers are on our FAQ page.