By: Edward L. Blais, JD, CIC
Having
a pool in your backyard is refreshing for those hot weekends and summer
block parties. If you have recently installed a pool at your home and
are ready to enjoy the water, remember to consider insurance and water
safety.
Fortunately, a pool is considered separate from
your dwelling and is therefore covered under the “other structures”
section of your homeowner’s policy, similarly to sheds, detached garages
and gazebos.
However, if you have a number of detached structures,
or if your pool was on the expensive side, the standard coverage may not
be enough. If this is the case, you may want to consider adding a
higher amount of coverage for your specific structures.
While
evaluating your insurance coverage, you should keep in mind that, no
matter the type of policy, insurance will not cover damage done to your
pool by freezing, thawing, pressure, or weight of ice or water. This is
why it is so important to “winterize” your pool if you live in cold
climates.
Not only should you think about the insurance
coverage for your pool, but also take a moment to consider liability
coverage. Installing a pool increases your chances of liability if
someone is injured or killed as a result of using your pool. If you are
a homeowner with a pool, we strongly recommend you consider increasing
your liability coverage or purchasing an personal umbrella liability
policy.
Remember, it is always best to set up some pool safety rules to decrease your potential liability exposure.
If
you have any additional questions regarding insurance coverages for
your pool, please contact Blais Insurance at 401- 725 -0070.