As a homeowner, you likely have some amenities around the property that you use to relax. Maybe you’ve installed an outdoor deck for small gatherings with your friends and family. Perhaps you have recently installed a swimming pool, and are concerned about whether that may impact your home insurance. Here’s a closer look at home insurance coverage for swimming pools.
Is My Swimming Pool Covered?
Home insurance does cover swimming pools in most cases. It generally depends on the type of policy you have and the pool being insured. Another variable to consider is if the potential swimming pool damage occurred because of a covered loss or exclusion. It’s recommended that you look over your policy carefully.
Coverage Breakdown
Home insurance covers your swimming pool against potential damages caused by fire, vandalism, and inclement weather. Most homeowners opt to install above-ground pools. Insurers generally classify above-ground pools as personal property. Suppose you have an above-ground pool permanently installed on your property, which will be classified as an extra structure. Your coverage limits are influenced by your deductible. Your deductible is the amount you are expected to pay towards a covered loss before your insurance handles the rest. It’s recommended that you speak with your insurer to assess your options and find coverage that protects your swimming pool against potential damages.
Potential Exclusions
It’s important to learn about potential exclusions while researching home insurance coverage for swimming pools. Swimming pool damage caused by natural wear and tear is generally excluded from home insurance policies. You are expected to take care of your swimming pool by performing regular maintenance.
Failing to perform yearly maintenance on your swimming pool may clog the filter. Excess debris can easily pile up if left untreated. Leaves and other heavy debris can damage your pump. Any swimming pool damage caused by a flood is also excluded from your home insurance policy. You’re also expected to make seasonal adjustments. For example, it’s important to drain the water level during winter. You likely won’t be covered through your home insurance policy if the cold temperatures cause cracks and leaks inside your swimming pool. Another common exclusion is if the pool collapses due to a lack of maintenance.
Potential Liability Disputes
One of the most common issues regarding home insurance coverage for swimming pools is potential liability disputes. Perhaps you’re throwing a pool party during the summer. Unfortunately, one of your guests slips and falls while getting out of the pool, suffering a serious injury. Liability coverage assists with the injured party’s medical treatment. Liability coverage also assists with your legal bills in the event that the injured party opts to sue.
Things to Consider
Consider purchasing umbrella insurance if you throw frequent pool parties. Umbrella insurance adds an extra layer of protection if you are involved in a liability dispute that exceeds your policy limits. Umbrella insurance steps in to prevent you from covering the remaining balance out of your own assets. There are a few safety measures you could take to avoid future liability disputes. Consider installing lighting around the pool to prevent potential accidents. Installing a fence around the area is another option to prevent potential accidents by limiting access. If you would prefer not to build a fence, consider purchasing a pool cover. Pool covers are designed to prevent people from falling into your pool. Keeping a first aid kit nearby is a good safety measure to utilize.
Cover Your Swimming Pool with 01 Insurance
Swimming pools are unique assets. Luckily, home insurance policies generally include swimming pools as long as you take care of your property. If you have any questions regarding coverage, contact the team here at 01 Insurance, and we will assist you.