Joe DownsCEO & Co-Founder, Belrose Storage Group. Founder, Storage Moguls.

Why a $200K Boat Owner Will Still Come After You

28 Apr 2026 · 1 min

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In this informational video, Joe Downs explains why operators of storage facilities, RV parks, or similar rental properties face significant liability exposure when tenant‑owned high‑value assets are damaged on their premises. He argues that even enforceable lease language may not deter owners of expensive items—such as a $200,000 boat—from filing claims, and that the resulting legal defense costs can be substantial regardless of the outcome. Downs introduces bailee’s coverage as a targeted insurance solution that protects against claims arising from property in the operator’s care, custody, or control. He illustrates the risk with concrete scenarios: a tree falling on a stored RV, a gate malfunction that damages a boat, and one tenant’s vehicle rolling into a neighboring boat. The video’s purpose is to persuade storage operators to recognize these exposure gaps and adopt bailee insurance to mitigate financial and legal repercussions.

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A gate malfunction that damages a tenant's vehicle may be treated differently than a random theft the operator had no way to prevent. Second, even when the lease language is enforceable, a tenant with a $200,000 boat that was damaged on your property is likely to pursue a claim before accepting that the lease protects you. The legal defense costs alone, even if you ultimately prevail, can be significant. Bailee's coverage addresses this directly. It covers claims for damage to property in your care, custody, or control. Which is exactly what a stored vehicle is. When a tree falls on a stored RV, when a gate malfunction damages a boat, when another tenant's vehicle rolls into the boat next door,