According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of death in the United States for children aged 1 to 4, and the second leading cause for those aged 5 to 14. Because of these and other risks, insurance companies are increasingly cautious when insuring homes with swimming pools.
Whether you’re planning to install a pool or purchase a home that already has one, understanding how your homeowners insurance covers swimming pools and related incidents is essential.
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Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Pool Damage in the US?
Whether your policy includes protection for a pool depends largely on your insurance provider. Some insurers won’t offer home insurance for properties with pools, while others may require specific safety standards before activating your policy.
These requirements might include:
- Installing a self-latching, gated fence around the pool
- Ensuring adequate lighting to reduce fall risks
- Using non-skid tape on diving boards
- Locking ladders for above-ground pools
If your policy does cover pools, personal liability protection typically extends to pool-related incidents. Damage to the pool itself may fall under one of three coverage types: dwelling, personal property, or other structures.
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In-Ground vs. Above-Ground Pools: How They’re Classified
- In-ground pools are generally considered part of the dwelling or other structures coverage.
- Above-ground pools may be classified as personal property—especially if they are removable. However, most above-ground pools are installed permanently and require land preparation. In such cases, they may be categorized under other structures.
It’s essential to clarify your pool’s classification with your insurer to avoid confusion at claim time.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Pool-Related Injuries?
Homeowners insurance may cover injuries related to pool use depending on:
- How the injury occurred
- Whether your pool complies with local safety regulations
- Whether you’ve implemented recommended safety features
There are two main types of coverage for injury-related claims:
Medical Payments Coverage
Medical payments coverage reimburses medical expenses if a visitor is injured in your home—regardless of fault. Coverage typically ranges from $1,000 to $5,000, though higher limits may be available. This can help settle smaller claims before they escalate into lawsuits.
Personal Liability Coverage
Personal liability coverage usually starts at $100,000 and can be increased to $300,000 or more. To trigger this protection, the homeowner must be found negligent in causing injury or damage.
This coverage may pay for:
- Medical bills
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Legal fees
Many insurers recommend installing safety features such as fenced enclosures with locked gates or removable ladders to reduce liability and qualify for better coverage.
Why the Right Liability Limit Matters
Even if your homeowners insurance includes coverage for pool-related injuries, choosing the appropriate liability cap is essential. High medical costs or legal claims can easily exceed basic policy limits.
Contact your insurance agent to:
- Confirm how your pool is covered
- Set the right liability and medical coverage limits
- Discuss discounts for implementing safety features
