Farm Structures Insurance for Farmers: Protecting the Backbone of Agriculture

Farming is more than a livelihood; it’s a way of life. From barns and silos to machine sheds and livestock shelters, farm structures are essential to daily operations and long-term success. Yet, these structures face constant threats from weather, fire, theft and other risks. That’s where farm structures insurance comes in. This coverage is vital for farmers looking to protect their investments and ensure business continuity.

What Is Farm Structures Insurance?

Farm structures insurance is a specialized form of property coverage designed to protect the physical buildings on a farm. This includes:

• Barns (used for livestock, storage, or equipment)
• Silos (for grain and feed)
• Machine sheds
• Greenhouses
• Livestock shelters
• Fencing and irrigation systems
• Detached garages and workshops

Coverage typically includes coverage for perils such as fire, lightning, windstorms, hail, vandalism and theft. Some policies may offer optional endorsements for flood, earthquake or equipment breakdown.

Key Considerations When Choosing Coverage

Discuss the following with your agent:

• Structure use: Insurers often differentiate between residential, commercial and agricultural use. Be transparent about how each building is used to ensure accurate coverage.
• Replacement cost vs. actual cash value: Replacement cost coverage pays to rebuild with similar materials, while actual cash value accounts for depreciation. Weigh the pros and cons based on budget and long-term needs.
• Scheduled vs. blanket coverage: Scheduled coverage lists each structure individually with its own limit, while blanket coverage provides a single limit for multiple structures.
• Policy limits and deductibles: Review limits to ensure they reflect current construction costs. Also, consider how deductibles will affect claims.
• Additional endorsements: Depending on location and risk exposure, farmers may want to add endorsements for flood, earthquake or business interruption.

Learn More

Farm structures insurance is a strategic investment in the future of your farm. By working with a knowledgeable insurance agent, farmers can tailor coverage to their unique needs.

Contact Taylor-Moore Agency to learn about your farm insurance options and get a personalized quote.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.