One of the best ways to stay comfortable on a hot, summer day is to bask in the cool water of a private swimming pool. It's ideal entertainment for kids and adults, alike. If you are installing a pool this season, below is what you need to know about home insurance and what it covers.

Does Home Insurance Cover Damage to Your Pool?

Homeowners insurance protects you in multiple ways, depending on what type of pool you have. Above-ground pools are normally covered under personal property insurance. For instance, if a tree should fall and flatten the sides, you are reimbursed for the cost of a replacement or repair.

On the other hand, most policies cover inground pools as part of your dwelling coverage, as if it were an additional structure on the property like a garage, greenhouse, or privacy fence. Check your dwelling coverage limits to see if they are high enough to cover serious pool damage.

What Does Home Insurance Not Cover?

Homeowners insurance policies normally exclude damage caused by earth movement, so you might want to purchase earthquake coverage if you live in regions susceptible to earth movement. It also does not cover damages caused due to maintenance failure on your part, such as neglecting to drain the pool during winter.

What About Liability?

Pool owners may find their insurance premiums increase after installing a pool because of the increased liability risk. Pools and trampolines draw neighborhood kids who may use the equipment unsupervised while you are away.

Your insurer may require you to install a locking fence to prevent this. Moreover, most basic homeowners policies have liability limits that top out at $100,000. You may wish to raise this limit—to $300,000 or even $500,000—because medical treatments can easily exceed six figures, and you would otherwise be liable for the additional amount.

For expert assistance designing a home insurance policy that adequately covers your pool and property, contact Lighthouse Agency in Fairfield, OH. They are located in Butler County but are also licensed to operate in Indiana and Kentucky. They specialize in auto, health, home, renters, and life insurance. Visit their website to calculate how much homeowners insurance you need or call (513) 860-9100 to ask an insurance agent for a price quote.