Are Pool Screen Enclosures Covered by Insurance?

Pool Enclosures & Insurance: What’s Really Covered?

Expert Insights From Lafferty Aluminum & Screening

A pool screen enclosure is one of the best ways to keep pests, debris, and harsh weather out of your pool area — but what happens when the enclosure itself is damaged? Homeowners often ask:

“Does my homeowners insurance cover pool screen enclosure damage?”

The answer depends on your policy, the cause of damage, and how your structure is classified. This updated guide breaks down everything Florida homeowners need to know — including what insurance typically covers, what it doesn’t, and how to file a claim successfully.

Quick Answer

Homeowners insurance may cover damage to a pool screen enclosure if the cause is a covered peril like wind, fallen trees, or accidents. Insurance does not cover normal wear and tear, aging screens, or damage caused by lack of maintenance. Coverage also depends on whether your enclosure is classified under Dwelling Coverage or Other Structures Coverage in your policy.

Are Pool Enclosures Covered by Insurance?

How Homeowners Insurance Classifies Pool Screen Enclosures

Most policies protect your main home under Dwelling Coverage and detached additions under Other Structures Coverage. Pool enclosures can fall into either category, depending on your insurer and how the enclosure connects to your home.

1. Dwelling Coverage (Attached Structures)

If your pool enclosure is physically connected to your home, it may be considered part of the dwelling.

This classification applies when:

  • The enclosure’s roof attaches to the home
  • Structural posts connect directly to the house
  • The enclosure is built as an extension of your patio or lanai

Why it matters:
Dwelling coverage usually offers higher limits, meaning more potential protection for repairs.

2. Other Structures Coverage (Detached Enclosures)

If your enclosure is free-standing, your insurer may classify it as an “other structure,” similar to:

  • Sheds
  • Gazebos
  • Detached garages

Why it matters:
Other structures often carry lower coverage limits, sometimes only 10% of your dwelling coverage.

What Types of Damage Are Covered?

Damage coverage depends entirely on the cause of loss. Here are the most common scenarios:

🌪 1. Weather-Related Damage

Florida homeowners frequently face storms, hurricanes, hail, and high winds. Most policies include coverage for storm-related damage — but there are exceptions.

Covered perils may include:
✔ Wind damage
✔ Hail
✔ Fallen branches
✔ Hurricane debris (depending on your policy)

Not typically covered:
✘ Flooding
✘ Storm surge (requires flood insurance)
✘ Hurricane deductibles (may apply separately)

🚗 2. Accidental Damage

Insurance often covers unexpected accidents, such as:

  • A tree falling on the enclosure
  • A neighbor’s fence blowing into it
  • A vehicle hitting the structure

If an identifiable event caused the damage, you’re more likely to get approved.

🔧 3. What Insurance Will NOT Cover

Normal Wear & Tear

This includes:

  • Aging screens
  • Rust on aluminum
  • UV deterioration
  • Sagging mesh

Insurance doesn’t cover gradual damage.

Neglect or Lack of Maintenance

If your insurer determines the damage came from:

  • Lack of cleaning
  • Overgrown vegetation touching the enclosure
  • Previously ignored structural issues

…your claim can be denied.

How to File an Insurance Claim for a Damaged Pool Enclosure

Follow these steps to maximize your chance of approval:

1. Contact Your Insurance Company Immediately

Timely reporting speeds up processing and avoids dispute over when damage occurred.

2. Document Everything

Take clear photos and videos of:

  • Screens
  • Aluminum frame
  • Roof panels
  • Debris or fallen objects

Also gather:

  • Repair estimates
  • Construction invoices
  • Permits (if available)

3. Meet With the Adjuster

An insurance adjuster will inspect the enclosure and assess the cause and extent of damage.

4. Review Your Policy Before Accepting the Offer

Know your limits and deductibles — especially hurricane deductibles, which can be significantly higher.

Important Policy Considerations for Homeowners

Coverage Limits

Many policies cap “other structures” coverage at 10% of your dwelling amount.

Deductibles

Storm-related claims in Florida may have separate deductible structures.

High-Value Enclosures

If you’ve built a premium enclosure, consider adding it as scheduled property for better protection.

Maintenance Matters

Regular care helps avoid denied claims and extends the lifespan of your enclosure.

FAQ

1. Does homeowners insurance cover pool enclosure screen replacement?

Only if the damage is caused by a covered peril such as wind, hail, or a falling object. Wear and tear is not covered.

2. Will insurance cover hurricane damage to a pool enclosure in Florida?

Usually yes — but hurricane deductibles apply, and some policies exclude screen mesh.

3. Are screen enclosures considered part of the home or an “other structure”?

It depends on whether the enclosure is attached to the main dwelling.

4. Does insurance cover rescreening?

Insurance does not cover rescreening due to age, deterioration, or maintenance-related issues.

5. What type of pool enclosure damage is most commonly denied?

Damage caused by neglect, corrosion, old age, and unmaintained landscaping.

Protect Your Home — And Your Enclosure

Understanding your insurance policy helps you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket repairs. If your enclosure has been damaged or you’re looking to upgrade, our experts can help.

Schedule your consultation using our online contact form, or speak with a member of our team at (321) 652-1078.

Your dream enclosure is just one call away.

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Lafferty did an excellent job on our unconventional screening project. The office staff was responsive and friendly. From consultation to installation, all of our questions and concerns were addressed.

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"Friendly service, professional attitude of employee, polite and they cleaned up as they worked.   We had our pool enclosed redone after hurricane damage and now it looks great. Thanks"

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