Short on time? Need a fast quote? Call or text us at (661) 833-3300

Summertime Fun in the Sun- Are You Covered?

Summer is finally here! This means many more family barbecues, swim parties, and outdoor activities taking place. With all the extra guests filing through the front door, will the liability on the homeowner’s policy be enough to provide a homeowner with all the protection they need? Don’t assume without certainty…

 Pools

While pools are a common fixture to have on the property, they still bring extra liability risk. Luckily, most companies do not have a problem insuring a home if it has a pool as long as the owner has taken the proper safety measures to prevent accidents from occurring. One of the easiest ways to make a pool safer is by placing a gate around it. Also, not having extras such as diving boards and slides can reduce the liability concern.

It is important to confirm with an agent that the pool is appropriately rated on the homeowner’s insurance policy. Pools can vary from in-ground to above-ground, which affects the category that they are covered under. It is important to ensure the proper amount of coverage is included in attached or detached structures, whichever coverage the pool falls into.

Trampolines

People often overlook the major issues that arise from placing a trampoline on their property. While this entertaining jumping apparatus may be loads of fun for the neighborhood kids, it can very easily turn into an expensive emergency room visit.

Homeowners should be aware that many insurance companies will not insure homes if there is a trampoline located on the property. Also, concealing these details from an agent can cause a claim to be denied or the policy to be canceled. Some companies have specific exclusions for injuries arising from trampolines. If the insured is unsure if they have coverage, they can check their policy terms and conditions or ask an agent today to see if the homeowner’s policy will cover the losses.

Here are a few ways to prevent losses:

  • Supervision while in use
  • Net for more safety
  • Place fixture on a flat, stable surface
  • Make sure there is enough liability coverage (possibly consider adding an umbrella policy)

 Boats

The law does not require boat owners to have boat insurance, but it is a sensible investment to make. Many boat owners assume their homeowner’s policy will cover their boat, but unless the boat meets all requirements on size, maximum horsepower, and type, there will not be coverage. Also, any coverage included in the homeowner’s policy only insures the watercraft while it is on the property, not when it is being towed on the trailer or is in the water.

A boat insurance policy not only covers damage to the vessel, but also includes liability coverage for the passengers on the boat and bodily injury imposed on other individuals. Uninsured/underinsured boater coverage can also be added to ensure the passengers on the boat owner’s vessel will always be covered in the event of an accident. It is highly recommended for all boat owner’s to have a boat insurance policy in force.