If you own lake property on Table Rock Lake, Is My Dock Covered by My Home Insurance on Table Rock Lake? is one of the most important insurance questions you can ask.
Many homeowners assume their dock is automatically covered under their homeowners insurance policy. However, because Table Rock Lake is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, dock coverage can be more complicated than traditional “other structures” coverage.
Let’s break it down clearly.
Why Dock Insurance Is Different on Table Rock Lake
On Corps-managed lakes:
- The shoreline is typically federally owned
- Docks are permitted structures, not deeded real estate
- Most docks float and are anchored offshore
- The dock may not sit on your insured property line
Because of this, your insurance carrier may not automatically consider your dock part of the “insured premises.”
That’s where coverage gaps can occur.
How Home Insurance Typically Categorizes Docks
Homeowners policies generally divide property into:
- Coverage A – Dwelling
- Coverage B – Other Structures
- Coverage C – Personal Property
Your dock could fall under:
1️⃣ Other Structures
If the carrier considers it part of your premises.
2️⃣ Personal Property
If the dock is treated as movable or floating property.
3️⃣ Not Covered
If the policy excludes structures not attached to the dwelling or not located on insured land.
Each carrier handles this differently.
Common Coverage Issues for Table Rock Lake Docks
❌ The Dock Is Not Attached
Because docks:
- Float
- Are anchored in the water
- Sit beyond deeded property
Some policies limit or exclude coverage unless specifically endorsed.
❌ Wind & Storm Damage Limitations
Strong Missouri and Arkansas storms can:
- Tear apart flotation
- Damage slip roofs
- Break anchor cables
- Twist metal framing
Some policies:
- Exclude wave action
- Limit wind coverage
- Apply high percentage deductibles
❌ Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value
Many docks are insured at Actual Cash Value (ACV).
This means depreciation is applied.
Example:
- Replacement cost: $45,000
- ACV payout after depreciation: $27,000
That difference comes out of your pocket.
❌ Liability on Federal Shoreline
If someone:
- Slips on wet decking
- Falls while boarding a boat
- Gets injured diving
Your liability coverage may extend — but only if the dock qualifies as an insured location.
This is especially important on Corps-managed lakes.
What About Boat Lifts and Accessories?
Important distinction:
- The dock structure may be covered under homeowners.
- The boat lift often requires specific endorsement.
- Your boat needs a separate boat insurance policy.
Many claims are partially denied because lifts were not scheduled separately.
How to Confirm If Your Dock Is Covered
Ask your agent these direct questions:
- Is my dock listed on my declarations page?
- Is it insured under Coverage B or Coverage C?
- Is it replacement cost or actual cash value?
- Is wind and wave damage excluded?
- Does liability extend to federally managed shoreline?
If your agent cannot answer clearly, it’s worth a coverage review.
FAQ: Dock Insurance on Table Rock Lake
Is my dock automatically covered?
Not always. Coverage depends on policy wording and endorsements.
Does insurance cover dock storm damage?
Sometimes — but wind, wave, and water damage may be limited.
Is my dock insured at full rebuild cost?
Often not unless specifically endorsed for replacement cost.
What if someone gets hurt on my dock?
Liability may extend, but only if the dock qualifies as an insured location.
Final Thoughts
Dock insurance on Table Rock Lake is not as simple as most homeowners believe.
Because the dock:
- Is floating
- Is not attached to your home
- May sit on federally managed land
It requires careful policy review.
If you own property on Table Rock Lake in Missouri or Arkansas, reviewing your dock coverage before storm season could prevent a major financial surprise.