Is a Pool Covered by Homeowners Insurance? What You Need to Know
A backyard swimming pool is a dream for many homeowners—offering relaxation, entertainment, and a perfect way to beat the summer heat. But with that dream comes responsibility, especially when it comes to protecting your property and assets. At Coastal Insurance Solutions, we often hear the question: Does homeowners insurance cover a swimming pool?
The answer? It depends. Let’s dive into how pools are treated under standard homeowners insurance policies, the coverage options available, and what steps you should take to ensure you’re properly protected.
1. Liability Coverage: Protecting Yourself Against Accidents
When you add a pool to your home, you’re also adding potential liability. Pools pose risks—particularly to children or guests—which could lead to injuries or worse. Fortunately, most homeowners insurance policies include personal liability coverage, which can help pay for medical bills or legal fees if someone is injured in or around your pool.
Key points about liability insurance for pool owners:
- Liability coverage typically ranges from $100,000 to $500,000, but we recommend considering an umbrella policy to extend this limit.
- Not disclosing a pool to your insurer could result in denied claims or cancellation.
- You may be required to install safety features like fencing, alarms, or self-locking gates.
Pro tip: Consider increasing your liability coverage or adding a personal umbrella policy to protect your assets in the event of a lawsuit.
1. Liability Coverage: Protecting Yourself Against Accidents
When you add a pool to your home, you’re also adding potential liability. Pools pose risks—particularly to children or guests—which could lead to injuries or worse. Fortunately, most homeowners insurance policies include personal liability coverage, which can help pay for medical bills or legal fees if someone is injured in or around your pool.
Key points about liability insurance for pool owners:
- Liability coverage typically ranges from $100,000 to $500,000, but we recommend considering an umbrella policy to extend this limit.
- Not disclosing a pool to your insurer could result in denied claims or cancellation.
- You may be required to install safety features like fencing, alarms, or self-locking gates.
Pro tip: Consider increasing your liability coverage or adding a personal umbrella policy to protect your assets in the event of a lawsuit.
2. Physical Damage Coverage: Is the Pool Itself Covered?
Whether your pool is covered for physical damage depends on how it’s constructed and how your insurer categorizes it.
In-Ground Pools:
- Often classified under “Other Structures” coverage (Coverage B).
- Covered perils might include damage from falling trees, vandalism, or certain weather events.
- Cracks or wear from poor maintenance are not covered.
Above-Ground Pools:
- May be treated as personal property (Coverage C) or other structures, depending on permanence.
- Coverage may be limited or excluded if the pool is considered temporary.
What’s typically excluded:
- Earth movement or shifting ground
- Freezing or cracking during winter (especially if improperly winterized)
- General wear and tear or poor maintenance
Tip: Review your “Other Structures” limit—it’s often 10% of your Dwelling (Coverage A) limit. If your pool and surrounding features (like decking or fencing) are high in value, you may want to increase this limit.
3. Pool Equipment and Accessories
Pumps, filters, lighting systems, and heaters are often covered under the same “Other Structures” section, much like HVAC components.
To ensure full protection:
- Keep records of purchase dates and costs.
- Perform regular maintenance and inspections.
4. Common Exclusions: What Could Void Your Pool Coverage
Your policy may exclude pool-related liability or damage if:
- There’s no fence or barrier around the pool.
- You have a diving board or water slide.
- You fail to disclose the existence of the pool.
- Local code or safety requirements are not met.
Insurer requirements may include:
- A fence that is at least 4 to 5 feet tall
- Self-locking gates and no chain-link construction
- Compliance with local safety ordinances
5. Building or Adding a Pool? Tell Your Insurer First
If you’re planning to build a new pool, contact your insurance agent before breaking ground. Adding a pool can:
- Increase your home’s replacement cost
- Alter your coverage requirements
- Raise your premium (due to higher liability)
Each insurance company has different underwriting guidelines. Some may even decline coverage if safety standards aren’t met or if high-risk features (like diving boards) are added.
Recommendations to Maximize Your Coverage
- Increase Liability Limits: Protect your assets with an umbrella policy.
- Review Your “Other Structures” Coverage: Ensure it reflects the value of your pool, deck, and equipment.
- Implement Safety Features: Install fencing, pool covers, alarms, and gates.
- Perform Regular Maintenance: Keep your pool and equipment in good condition.
- Disclose Everything: Always notify your insurance provider when adding or altering a pool.
Make Home Insurance A Breeze
FAQs About Pools and Home Insurance
1. Will my homeowners insurance cover a pool collapse?
Possibly. If the cause is a covered peril, such as a fallen tree or vandalism, you may be covered. However, collapse from poor maintenance or age is likely excluded.
2. Do I need extra insurance for a diving board?
Many insurers exclude coverage for pools with diving boards due to the increased risk of injury. Always confirm with your carrier before installation.
3. Can I get coverage for a temporary above-ground pool?
Some insurers cover above-ground pools under personal property, while others may not cover them at all. Discuss your options with an agent.
4. Is my pool covered during winter?
Your policy might exclude freeze-related damage if the pool wasn’t properly winterized. Check your insurer’s winter maintenance requirements.
5. How much does a pool impact my premium?
Expect a moderate increase due to increased liability. The exact cost varies by insurer and pool type.
Partner with Coastal
Navigating the complexities of pool insurance can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Coastal Insurance Solutions, our expert licensed agents have extensive knowledge and experience in helping homeowners ensure their pools are properly covered. We understand the unique risks and requirements associated with pool ownership and are here to provide you with personalized advice and tailored insurance solutions.
Our team is dedicated to giving you the confidence and peace of mind you need to overcome the difficulties of properly insuring your pool. Let Coastal Insurance Solutions help you protect your investment and enjoy your pool worry-free. Reach out to our experienced advisors to learn how a well-designed, high end insurance package can protect your home and assets while also saving you money.
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