Boat ownership brings enjoyment, but storing your watercraft during the off-season or at a facility raises important insurance questions. Whether you’re docking in San Antonio, TX, waters or storing your boat elsewhere, understanding how your boat/watercraft insurance adapts to different storage situations protects your investment year-round. Shavano Insurance Agency, LLC, serving San Antonio, TX, explains.
The Storage Location Affects Your Coverage
Your boat insurance policy needs to know where your vessel spends its time. Marina storage, dry storage facilities, and backyard storage each present different risks that insurance companies evaluate differently. Most policies automatically cover your boat at the address listed on your policy, but storing it elsewhere often requires you to notify your insurer.
Seasonal Storage Considerations
During winter months or extended storage periods, your coverage needs shift significantly. While you might reduce liability coverage since you’re not operating the vessel, comprehensive coverage becomes more important to protect against theft, vandalism, and weather damage. Many insurers offer lay-up periods that adjust your premiums when the boat isn’t in use.
Off-Site Facility Protection
Professional storage facilities often provide some protection, but don’t assume their coverage replaces your boat insurance. Facility insurance typically covers their liability, not your boat’s value. Verify what protection the facility offers and ensure your policy fills any gaps.
Smart Storage Insurance Strategies
Document your boat’s condition before storing it. Include photos and detailed records. Some insurers offer discounts for boats stored in secure, climate-controlled facilities versus outdoor storage.
Shavano Insurance Agency, LLC can review your storage arrangements and adjust your boat insurance policy to provide optimal protection, regardless of where your vessel spends its off-season. Call us. We’re currently serving San Antonio, TX.
