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Summer is coming ... Is your pool insured?

APRIL 6, 2021

By:  Bill Mitchell

Is my pool covered under my Maine home insurance policy?

Type of pool matters.

Whether you have an inground pool or an above ground pool, you’ll likely benefit from some property coverage under your Maine home insurance policy. And your liability should cover you if you are found negligent if a non-resident were to get hurt related to your pool.

When it comes to property damage to your pool, there is likely a difference in how your insurance company will cover (or not cover) a claim. Inground pools are usually considered “building” coverage while above ground pools are usually considered “personal property”, which often times has more restricted or limited coverage.

Whether considered “building” or “personal property” there are many types of damage that can occur to your pool that may not be covered … heaving, wash out, earth movement or settling, wear & tear, mechanical failure. Example of things that should be covered are tree lands in/on the pool, vandalism, fire, lightning. Give GHM a call at 800-244-9046 for a full list of coverages and exclusions related to pools.

Safety First.

In both cases, it is essential to have a fence attached to your home with locked gates securing the pool from all potential entry points to the back yard. CLICK HERE for pool safety tips.

Will my home insurance premiums increase?

Having or installing a pool should not increase your home insurance premium unless you disregard the need for a fence or other safety requirements. Your policy should automatically extend property coverage either as a “building” or as “personal property”. And your liability protection should extend to the pool as well. CLICK HERE for ways to save money on home insurance and car insurance in Maine.

Who would know the answers to these questions?

 It is always a good idea to call a knowledgeable Maine independent insurance agent to get a definitive answer. Although pools are a fun family activity, they also come with additional property and liability risks. You should take a few minutes to speak with an agent who can help you understand your exposures and assist with making well informed decisions about what coverages are right for you.

Before you dive in.

Every home insurance policy is different. Nothing is cookie cutter when it comes to insurance. It is important to understand how your home insurance policy will respond should an accident or injury occur related to your pool. CLICK HERE for pool safety tips.

Consider your options.

Independent agents offer consumers more options. Most Maine independent agencies represent a few different insurance companies while some represent 20 or more. So, no matter what your situation, Maine independent agents can almost always offer you more solutions for your home insurance. CLICK HERE and we’ll be happy to help you with your Maine home insurance.

CLICK HERE for ways to save on Car Insurance in Maine

CLICK HERE for information on low-cost Term Life Insurance

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