Does your homeowner's insurance cover your pool?

Summertime is the most popular season for people to consider purchasing a pool for their home. Installing a swimming pool in your home is a huge investment, and one to consider very carefully. Besides just the initial cost of the pool, insurance coverage needs to be considered fully as well.
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While you might not realize it, swimming pools for many insurers pose a huge liability risk. Installing a pool in your home will always increase risk, whether it’s an inground pool or an above ground pool. The potential for a guest to get injured definitely increases your liability, and it’s important to be covered. If you don’t have the proper insurance coverage, you may find the financial burden to be too much to handle.

While homeowner’s insurance can cover swimming pools, it’s important that you carefully review your policy to be sure. Some insurers will require extra safety precautions, such as a fence, for your pool to try and reduce risk. Other insures refuse based on their own independent underwriting guidelines. Whatever the case, never get a pool without discussing it with your agent first.

Homeowners insurance, if it does cover swimming pools, will likely not cover everything. Raising your liability limits on your homeowner’s insurance is highly suggested for any pool owner. Again – with swimming pools comes increased risk. Raising your liability limits will provide better coverage in case a guest is injured and you are held liable, or should you be sued in a civil lawsuit. Medical costs can be very expensive, and it is essential you are prepared for the possibility of injury.
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Having a pool for your home can bring a lot of enjoyment to your life, just be sure to carefully consider all the risks that come with it, and appropriately insure your investment. With the right insurance policy, you and your family can relax and enjoy your pool in the summertime sun.