Getting a swimming pool? Make sure you're covered by letting your agent know beforehand!
While we love pools, and think they’re a great way to exercise and have fun, we wanted to take an opportunity to talk about why it’s so important to talk to your insurance agent when installing a swimming pool at your home.
Checking (and double checking) your coverage.
Longer days and rising temps mean summer is fast approaching. For many, “summer" is synonymous with “outdoors”, but in Louisiana that means HEAT! To beat the heat and embrace the break, many people use Springtime to install pools and get them dialed in just in time for school to let out.
“Everyone has a pool, doesn’t home insurance cover that automatically?”
Well, yes and no.
While your insurance agent won’t frown on pools like they will on zip lines or trampolines, it’s important to make sure that you’re taking the necessary precautions to cover yourself in the event of injury on your property.
What type of coverage do I need?
Your agent will assess your current coverage and let you know what adjustments may need to be made to policy limits or with additional coverage. It goes without saying that having a swimming pool in your backyard can increase your liability risk, so it’s important to make sure that you’re adhering to the necessary safety requirements that your particular insurance carrier may require.
Some states or municipalities have regulations or ordinances regarding swimming pools, such as fencing requirements or permits. Your insurance agent can advise you on any legal obligations you need to fulfill to ensure compliance. You’ll likely need a fence, but you may even want to install a self-closing gate or covering for the pool. Additionally signs like “no diving” may keep your guests from behaving in ways that could cause harm and increase liability.
Bottom line, swimming pools pose a higher risk of accidents, such as drownings or injuries, especially if they are not properly secured. With that in mind, your agent may recommend increasing your liability limits or adding an umbrella liability policy for extra protection, but neither can happen if they don’t know what you’re up to. Your insurance agent should always be your partner in protection, so maintaining an open line of communication is always recommended.
At Kastner Insurance Group, we are always looking out for your wellbeing. If you're curious about your current coverage or in the market for new insurance, let us know!
In the meantime, if you have any other questions or need more information, feel free to call us anytime!
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