Pools, hot tubs, trampolines and tree houses all provide enjoyable ways for kids and adults to spend the summer months, but they also come with risks. If you’re a homeowner, you’re going to want to check with your home insurance provider to ensure you have adequate liability coverage before anyone goes for that first dive, jump or climb.
Having a pool not only increases the replacement cost of your property, but it ups your risk profile as well—two reasons you’re going to want to ensure you have enough coverage. Your insurance provider will likely ask you to take precautionary steps to safeguard your pool from potential mishaps.
Hot tubs and pools can also leak and cause damage to your property. This is typically covered under a standard home insurance policy, but again it’s a good idea to verify your coverage with your provider before you fill that tub up.
Trampolines may be excluded from some home insurance policies, which is why it’s important to take precautions to prevent injuries. Like pools, trampolines are often considered an “attractive nuisance” meaning they may appeal to trespassing children. If a trespasser or guest is injured via a trampoline on your property, a trampoline exclusion clause may prevent you from being covered.
Inspect it before each use to ensure the shock absorbing pads cover the springs, hooks and frame. Also check it over to ensure that the trampoline is secure and not damaged.
Home insurance coverage for a tree house will depend on your provider. Some providers may not cover it at all, while others may insure it as an “accessory structure” as they would a gazebo or shed, and others may cover it so long as the homeowner follows certain protocols. If you’re thinking of building a tree house, give your insurance provider a call first to find out what you need to do to ensure you’re covered.
Adding any of these features to your home may cause your premiums to increase in order to compensate for the additional risk factors associated with the equipment and activities. And as with any risks, ensuring you have adequate home insurance coverage and taking precautions to prevent injuries beforehand will help protect you in the event someone is injured on your property.
If your current insurance provider won’t cover your summer toys, don’t hesitate to shop around. Just because one insurer sees it as too big a liability, doesn’t mean another one won’t give you the coverage you need.