What Deductible Applies When a Driver Hits Your House
If a driver hits your house and causes structural damage, your auto insurance deductible is the collision or property damage deductible listed on your auto policy, typically $500 or $1,000. The driver's liability coverage pays for the structural repairs above that deductible, up to their policy limits.
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How the Deductible and Coverage Work Together
When a vehicle strikes a home, two layers of coverage usually apply. The driver's property damage liability coverage pays for the structural damage to your house, while the driver's collision coverage may apply if their own vehicle is damaged. Your deductible is the amount you choose on your auto policy and is paid out of pocket before collision coverage kicks in for vehicle repairs. For the house damage itself, you do not pay the driver's deductible, but you may have a deductible under your own homeowners policy if you file a claim there.
Key Factors That Affect What You Pay
- Your auto policy's property damage liability limit
- The driver's collision deductible, if their vehicle is also damaged
- Your homeowners deductible, if you file a claim on your own policy
- Whether the driver is uninsured or underinsured
- The extent of structural damage and local repair costs
When the Driver Has Limited or No Coverage
If the at-fault driver carries only state-minimum liability limits, those limits may not fully cover major structural repairs. In that case, your own homeowners policy may cover the damage, subject to your homeowners deductible and policy limits. You can also pursue the driver personally for costs beyond what insurance pays. Uninsured or underinsured motorist property damage coverage, where available, can help fill the gap.
Typical Deductible Ranges
| Coverage Type | Typical Deductible | Who Pays It |
|---|---|---|
| Auto Collision | $500–$2,000 | Policyholder |
| Auto Property Damage Liability | $0 (no deductible) | Insurance company |
| Homeowners (dwelling) | $500–$2,500 | Homeowner |
Because deductibles and limits vary by policy and state, the exact amount you pay depends on the specific coverages in force and the chosen deductible levels on both the auto and homeowners policies.