One of the key benefits offered by homeowners insurance is coverage against personal liability in the event a visitor is injured on your property. This type of protection is particularly important when your property features a swimming pool: these structures tend to attract kids from the neighborhood, and injuries are not uncommon. Below is what you should know about homeowners insurance when you own a swimming pool

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Your Swimming Pool?

Property Damage

Homeowners insurance protects you against the cost of damages to your swimming pool under its property coverage. Built-in pools are considered "other structures" and are covered under dwelling coverage that similarly protects your decks, the detached garage, and your boundary fences. Above ground pools are normally covered under your personal property limits.

Note that your policy likely does not cover damages caused by freezing pool water or other maintenance failures. It also does not cover damages caused by earth movement. You must buy additional coverage to guard against earthquake damage. Your insurer may also require you to install a fence around the pool to prevent access by unsupervised visitors.

Liability Coverage

A basic home insurance policy includes about $100,000 of bodily injury liability coverage. However, you should raise this limit if you have a swimming pool. The chances of slip-and-fall injuries are high wherever children run and play around splashing water, and the depth of the pool increases the danger. Because medical treatment for serious injuries can easily exceed six figures, consider raising your liability limits to $300,000 or even $500,000 so you aren't left out-of-pocket if something unfortunate should occur.

For high-quality homeowners insurance and any additional liability insurance you might need, contact David R Johnson Insurance Agency Inc. They have served clients throughout the greater Indianapolis area for nearly 30 years and is known as a Top Supporter of Beach Grove Athletics of 2019. In addition to homeowners insurance, they also specialize in auto, life, and renters insurance. Visit their Facebook page to interact with them online or call (317) 782-8858 to request an insurance quote.