When you think about your garage, you probably see it as a safe spot for your car, tools, and maybe a few boxes. But what you store in your garage can have a big impact on your home insurance. Many people don’t realize that certain items, if kept in the garage, can actually void or limit their insurance coverage. This can lead to denied claims and unexpected costs if something goes wrong. Insurance companies have strict rules about what’s allowed, and breaking those rules—even by accident—can cost you. If you want to avoid headaches and keep your coverage intact, it’s important to know what not to store in your garage. Here are nine items that can invalidate insurance claims if you keep them in your garage.
1. Flammable Liquids
Gasoline, paint thinners, and other flammable liquids are common in many garages. But storing them there is risky. Insurance policies often exclude coverage for fires caused by improper storage of these materials. If a fire starts and investigators find flammable liquids stored against policy guidelines, your claim could be denied. Always check your policy and store these items in approved containers, away from your home if possible.
2. Propane Tanks
Propane tanks are used for grills and heaters, but they’re not safe to keep in a garage. Propane is highly explosive, especially in enclosed spaces. Many insurance policies specifically mention propane tanks as a prohibited item for indoor storage. If an explosion or fire occurs and a propane tank is found in your garage, your insurer may refuse to pay. Store propane tanks outside, in a well-ventilated area, and away from your home.
3. Fireworks
Fireworks are fun, but they’re also dangerous and illegal to store in many places. Insurance companies see fireworks as a major fire hazard. If you keep them in your garage and there’s a fire, your claim could be rejected. Even if fireworks aren’t the cause, their presence can complicate your claim. It’s best to use fireworks only where and when it’s legal, and never store them at home.
4. Unregistered Vehicles
Some people use their garages to store old cars, motorcycles, or ATVs that aren’t registered or insured. This can be a problem. Most home insurance policies don’t cover unregistered vehicles, and their presence can even void your policy. If there’s a fire, theft, or other damage, you may be left with the bill. If you want to keep a vehicle in your garage, make sure it’s registered and insured separately.
5. Large Amounts of Cash
It might seem odd, but some people hide cash in their garage, thinking it’s safer than inside the house. Insurance policies usually have strict limits on cash coverage, often just a few hundred dollars. If you lose a large sum in a fire or theft, your claim will likely be denied. Keep cash in a bank, not your garage.
6. Hazardous Chemicals
Pesticides, pool chemicals, and cleaning agents are often stored in garages. But these chemicals can be dangerous if not handled properly. Insurance companies may deny claims if hazardous chemicals contribute to a fire, explosion, or environmental damage. Always read labels and follow storage instructions. If possible, keep only small amounts and store them in a secure, ventilated area.
7. Expensive Jewelry or Collectibles
Garages are not secure places for valuables. Insurance policies often exclude coverage for high-value items stored outside the main living area. If you keep jewelry, rare coins, or collectibles in your garage and they’re stolen or damaged, your claim may be denied. Store valuables in a safe inside your home, and consider extra coverage for expensive items.
8. Perishable Food
Some people use their garage as extra pantry space, especially for bulk food. But garages are not climate-controlled, and food can spoil quickly. Insurance policies rarely cover spoiled food unless it’s in a covered refrigerator or freezer, and even then, there are limits. If you lose a large amount of food due to a power outage or equipment failure, you may not be reimbursed. Keep perishable food inside your home.
9. Illegal Items
It should go without saying, but storing illegal items—like unlicensed firearms, drugs, or stolen goods—will not only void your insurance but can also lead to criminal charges. If your insurer finds illegal items after a loss, your entire policy could be canceled. Always follow the law and keep your garage free of anything illegal.
Protect Your Coverage by Knowing the Rules
Your garage might seem like a convenient storage space, but what you keep there matters more than you think. Insurance companies set clear rules to protect themselves and you. If you ignore those rules, you risk losing coverage when you need it most. Take a few minutes to review your policy and clean out your garage. It’s a simple step that can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
Have you ever had an insurance claim denied because of something stored in your garage? Share your story or tips in the comments below.
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