Getting a swimming pool installed on your property can be an exciting experience. While everyone dreams of having a pool in their backyard, not many residents are aware of how a swimming pool will affect their homeowner’s insurance. If you’ve been debating on installing a pool for quite some time, the first detail you need to assess for a stress-free installation is how this will affect your policy. Below, we have provided some insights on how your homeowner’s insurance premiums could increase with the new addition to your property.
Are Swimming Pools Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?
Whether you choose to install an in-ground or above-ground pool, your insurance premiums will be impacted by your policy’s specific terms. First off, check with your insurance agent to review if your homeowner’s insurance already includes coverage for pools. If so, there should not be an increase, or a dramatic increase, in your premiums. This is especially common in the Southern United States because pools are so common in the area.
However, if you’re in the New England area, there is a strong chance it’s not already part of your coverage. If it’s not included, this will result in a higher annual premium for the reasons below.
Installing a Pool May Increase Your Homeowner’s Insurance
Swimming pools are considered an “attractive nuisance,” like trampolines. An attractive nuisance is anything that might attract a child and pose a threat to an unsupervised child. According to the CDC, drowning is the number one cause of unintentional death for children between the ages of 1 and 4.
Due to the greater risk of installing a swimming pool, it is essential to increase your liability insurance. Most homeowner’s insurance policies include up to $100,000 in liability insurance. However, it is widely recommended that pool-owners increase their homeowner’s insurance liability coverage to $500,000. Adding additional liability insurance is beneficial because a swimming pool inherently causes more potential for injury.
Keeping Your Pool Safe and Clean
One thing to take into consideration when becoming a pool owner is the condition and safety of your pool. Policyholders are responsible for ensuring the safety and condition of their pool. Any damage done to the pool as a result of negligence by the policyholder will not be covered even by a homeowner’s insurance policy that includes swimming pool coverage. For more information on how to keep your pool safe, check out our blog, Keeping Your Pool Safe This Summer.
Furthermore, in order to prevent any accidents, there are several safety measures you should take:
- Safety Covers
- Pool Alarm
- Fencing
- Rescue Equipment
While there is much to prepare for when installing a pool, it will all be worth it when you and your family can cool down from those hot summer days in your pool! Again, contact your homeowner’s insurance agent to make sure your pool is covered, see if you need to increase your liability insurance, and then make sure you have the proper equipment to ensure everyone’s safety. If you have any questions about homeowner’s insurance for pools, feel free to contact us at TJ Woods Insurance.
