Swimming pools.
Homeowners Insurance.
…like bees and flowers, they go together. No, they really do, despite what you may have heard.
When writing insurance, asking if someone has a pool is a common question-just as is asking about dogs or trampolines. The reason why your agent may ask is because each company that an agency represents is going to have different rules regarding pools. Almost all companies will write a pool, but inground or above ground, slide, and diving board all become factors.
If you own a pool, don’t assume “you can’t get homeowners” or you’ll be charged extra. The majority of the time, coverage is easy to find as long as you are following the laws and requirements of your town and State.
In Massachusetts that means:
*All pools in Massachusetts must be enclosed by a fence at least 4 feet high.
*All gates must have a locking device on them, and must open OUTWARD from the swimming pool, AND be self-closing.
*The lock must be at LEAST 4 feet high.
For more information, you can check out the regulations here: http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/docs/dph/regs/105cmr435.pdf
Diving board?
Those also have rules and regulations. Some include how deep the water must be, and there are also many safety regulations regarding hand and guard rails.
Slides?
Slides are also subject to regulations-all slides, whether permanent or inflatable MUST been federal safety guidelines. This means no DIY slides!
You might ask-well, what about Portable/inflatable pools?
With their recent rise in popularity, these types of pools have increased the risk in drowning. If you are considering adding a portable pool (popular brands are Intex and Summer Waves), consider your potential liability the same as if you had a permanent pool.
The bottom line is owning a swimming pool is a factor in determining WHERE your insurance coverage ends up, and protecting yourself against pool accidents should be your top priority.
In order to protect yourself, consider increasing your homeowner’s liability coverage, your medical payments coverage, and above all, we HIGHLY recommend purchasing an umbrella policy to cover you in case of any accidents. A $1,000,000 Umbrella liability policy can start as low as $14 a month. We’re happy to quote an umbrella for you at any time- https://www.hannonmurphy.com/personal/umbrella-insurance/
As always, We’re Here for You and any questions you have!