Many Americans consider swimming in the pool a fundamental part of summer. Nothing is more comforting and fun than relaxing by the poolside when the sun is shining down on you. But did you know that an average of 390 deaths a year are attributed to swimming pool accidents? No matter what type of pool you have, accidents can cause injury or property damage. It doesn’t matter if you have a pool already or are looking to add one, it is important to check if your home insurance covers these risks.
Is your homeowner’s insurance able to cover the damage to your pool?
Your property insurance company will determine if your homeowners policy covers your pool. If there is a pool on the property, some insurers won’t issue a policy. Some insurers may require you to meet certain criteria before your policy can be issued.
After you have homeowners insurance, liability coverage will be extended to your pool. Damage to the pool would also be covered under a different type of policy.
Your insurance company will likely consider an above-ground pool part of your personal property, even if it doesn’t have any permanent structures like decks attached. You could, if you so desired, take it with you when moving. However, personal property coverage may have both a policy limit and a category limit for your pool. You may not receive the full amount of your pool’s coverage even though you have $125,000 personal property coverage. Discuss with your insurance company any limitations on your homeowners policy regarding an above-ground swimming pool.
If the pool is located below ground, covered claims may be made under your homeowners policy. This coverage usually covers 10% of your dwelling coverage. If you require more coverage, you might be able increase that percentage.
Is your homeowners insurance able to cover injuries from swimming pools?
Insurance companies refer to pools as an “attractive nuisance” which means that children and strangers could be attracted to your pool, regardless of whether you have given permission. You could be held responsible even if the uninvited guests cause injury to themselves.
If anyone were to be hurt while swimming in your pool, your homeowners policy will generally cover the costs. It is important to implement safety measures to reduce the chance of injury. Many property insurance companies will want to know if your pool has a fence with a locking gate around it or if the ladder can be removed from the pool to restrict access.
It is crucial to choose the right coverage for your financial security. Talk to an agent to determine the best coverage limit for your pool-related injuries.
Do you need a personal umbrella policy?
Although a personal umbrella policy does not need to be purchased, it is something you should consider if you have a pool.
An umbrella policy adds additional liability protection beyond your existing homeowners insurance policy and generally applies once your homeowners liability limits have been exhausted.
An umbrella policy provides homeowners with $1,000,000 in additional liability protection. An umbrella policy will pay for the funeral and medical expenses of anyone who is killed or seriously hurt while swimming in your pool. These expenses could easily surpass the maximum liability limit coverage on your standard homeowners insurance. You would have to pay any additional costs if you don’t have an umbrella policy or your standard homeowners insurance is exhausted.
Are there any other requirements for pool members?
Although your pool is most likely covered by personal property or other structures for injury or damage, there are additional steps you can take to minimize the chance of your pool being damaged or injured. These will not only protect your pool, but also protect others.
- A fence should be installed around your pool using a lockable gate.
Everyone loves pools and a strong fence can help keep trespassers out or prevent young children from getting hurt. To keep others from entering your pool, make sure that the gate is locked. Insurance companies will often ask whether your gate locks. Some insurers might also ask about the height of your fence, which they may require to be at least six feet high. - Install an alarm system at your gate
Every door leading to your pool should be equipped with an alarm. You should be able to hear the alarm from anywhere in the house. It should also ring loud enough so that you are able to see it. You’ll be notified if anyone is within range of your pool. - Never go solo swimming.
It is possible to do the best thing for yourself and others by requiring that no one swims alone. This is a must-have for parents with children, but it’s also an excellent rule for adults. Accidents can happen and you don’t want to be the only one who suffers. - Learn CPR.
CPR is easy to learn, and there are likely classes available in your local area. CPR training is essential if you have access to a pool. - Make sure there are no obstacles in the vicinity of the pool.
To protect yourself and your guests from falling, you should move all toys and lounge chairs. - Remove or raise ladders if possible.
Consider raising or removing the ladder from above-ground pools. This will prevent anyone from entering the pool without you permission.
Questions frequently asked
Which type of pool needs insurance?
To help pay for pool-related injuries and damage, all swimming pools should be insure. For financial security, property insurance is required for both above-ground pools and built-in ones.
Can I get insurance for my swimming pool?
You can insure your swimming pool with many standard homeowners policies. Your home insurance policy covers injuries and accidents that occur at the pool. Personal property coverage typically covers damage to above-ground pools, while coverage for in-ground pools is usually covered under other structures coverage. Ask your agent if you have homeowners coverage. For more information about pool insurance, and to find out if your insurance company offers it.
Is it expensive to insure a swimming pool?
Insuring a swimming pool can increase your homeowners premiums due to the risk they create, but most home insurers offer discounts to help offset the cost of premiums. You may be able to get a discount by bundling your homeowners and auto policies with one insurance company.
