Blinds and curtains: What's covered under a homeowners insurance policy?

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Question: Internally, we have a matter of opinion on the discussion of “blinds” or “curtains” as being a part of the structure vs. contents in a homeowners’ loss. With blinds, the consensus is that these are more “custom cut” and bolted in; thus, they are most likely a part of the structure and more apt to be left with the dwelling if one were to depart.

While the bracket is usually bolted to the structure, as well, curtains can also be draped over a rod and are more generally viewed as “contents.” Indeed, both items are generally bolted by brackets, but one appears to be more of a permanent part of the structure versus the other.

We would like your opinion as to what you would classify under coverage in a standard homeowners policy: contents or part of the structure? Thanks in advance.  

— Ohio Subscriber

Answer: You are correct that blinds tend to be more custom-made for the home and curtains less so, although curtains can also be custom-made. The issue is similar to that of wall-to-wall carpet versus a rug that an insured simply puts down on the floor with a rug pad. One is easily rolled up and taken when the insured moves; the other not so much. Curtains can be bought at Target, and while they come in a certain size, they can often be used on windows that aren’t exactly the same size. Blinds do not have that flexibility. Therefore, we fall on the side that blinds and custom drapes are part of the dwelling and other curtains are personal property.

Related: 

• When claims arise from relocated homeowners
• What property should be inventoried in a loss?
• Coverage for property improvements, additions and alterations