I received a frantic DM from a subscriber whose 1965 Mustang was stolen from his covered carport in broad daylight. He had full coverage with a major specialty insurer, or so he thought. The denial letter arrived three days later, citing a breach of the “Garaging Warranty” because the vehicle was not kept in a “fully enclosed, locked garage” at the residence.
Key Takeaways
- The “Four Walls” Rule: Most classic policies strictly define a garage as a structure with four walls and a lockable door. Carports do not count.
- Zip Code Matters: In high-theft metro areas, underwriters will check satellite imagery (Google Earth/AI Maps) to verify your garage exists before binding.
- “Carport” Endorsements Exist: Some carriers allow carports for lower-value cars, but you must specifically request this endorsement, often for a higher premium.
- Temporary Parking: The warranty applies to regular storage. If you park in the driveway to wash it and it gets stolen, you are covered. If you leave it there overnight, you are not.
The “Why” (The Trap): The Garaging Warranty
The clause usually reads: “It is warranted by the insured that the covered vehicle will be stored in a locked, private garage at the residence address.”
This is a warranty, not just a condition. In insurance law, a breach of warranty voids coverage entirely, regardless of whether the breach caused the loss.
If you told them you have a garage but actually use a carport, that is “Material Misrepresentation.”
[IMAGE: Satellite view comparison showing a detached garage (Approved) vs. a lean-to carport (Denied)]
The Investigation: I Called Them
I asked three carriers: “I live in a condo with a covered carport. Can I insure my $40,000 classic?”
1. Hagerty
- The Answer: “It depends.”
- The Nuance: They are generally strict about garages. However, in 2026, they have loosened up for newer collectibles (Radwood era) or lower values if you are in a low-crime zip code.
- Verdict: You have to call and ask for a “Carport Exception.”
2. Grundy
- The Answer: “No.”
- The Stance: Their MVP program is very strict. No garage, no insurance. They view the garage as the primary protection against weather and theft.
- Verdict: Hard pass for carport owners.
3. American Modern (AMIG)
- The Answer: “Yes, with a surcharge.”
- The Stance: They are one of the few that explicitly offer a “Carport” rate class. The premium is about 20% higher, but you are fully covered.
- Verdict: The best option for apartment/condo dwellers.
Comparison Table
| Storage Type | Hagerty | Grundy | American Modern |
| Locked Garage | Standard Rate | Standard Rate | Standard Rate |
| Carport | Case-by-Case | Denied | Approved (Surcharge) |
| Driveway | Denied | Denied | Denied |
| Public Storage | Approved | Approved | Approved |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Check Your Application: Did you check “Private Garage” when you bought the policy? If you don’t have one, you are currently paying for a void policy.
- Rent a Unit: If you can’t build a garage, rent a 10×20 unit at a self-storage facility. This counts as a “Locked Garage.”
- Install a Bollard: If you must use a carport and find a carrier that accepts it, install a locking bollard behind the car. It proves “Duty of Care.”
- Update Address: If you move the car to a friend’s garage, update the “Garaging Address” immediately. Coverage does not float if the move is permanent.
FAQ Section
Does a parking garage count?
A shared apartment parking garage usually counts if the building is secure (gated entry). An open public garage does not.
What if I’m on a road trip?
Hotel parking lots are covered. The “Garage Warranty” applies to your permanent residence, not travel.
Can I use a portable tent garage?
Generally, no. It must be a permanent structure. A fabric tent can be sliced open; it offers no security.