Have a Pool? Be Safe and Be Insured
Thinking of a Pool?
You may need more than sunscreen!
If you are currently sweltering in our Ontario hot summer, you may be daydreaming about cooling off in your own pool. Before you start pricing out pools and working with landscapers, there are some important things to consider and keep in mind.
Location: If you’re thinking about an in-ground pool, you already know you can’t just pick a sunny spot and start digging. Check your local ordinances and by-laws to see if there are any rules on the setback, which is the distance required between your home or the property line. If you’re considering an above-ground pool, a bit of distance from your home will help safeguard against accidental flooding – but you’ll want the pool close enough that you can respond quickly in an emergency.
Fencing: Many towns require fencing of a certain height to deter curious neighbourhood kids and to prevent accidental drowning. There may also be a requirement to install self-locking gates that swing shut automatically and lock behind anyone who enters or leaves the yard.
Adult Supervision: Always be sure kids are supervised. Many parents can tell you a story of when they pulled a toddler out of a pool who just wandered in because they were curious. If you are planning to build a pool, have a discussion with your family beforehand about the safety rules and ensure everyone understands the importance of supervision at all times.
Insurance
The good news is that it’s pretty hard to damage a pool, particularly a concrete or fiberglass pool. The bad news is the most common ways in which a pool can be damaged aren’t covered by a standard home insurance policy. Settling or earth movement are the most common causes of damage to a pool and it’s unlikely that your home insurance policy provides coverage.
Talk to your insurance broker about your home policy coverage and also discuss your liability coverage. In the insurance world – and in the courts – an “attractive nuisance” is something that’s attractive enough to children that they might enter someone else’s property. Pools fall into this category. Children may not fully comprehend the danger of a pool. After all, a pool can be a beautiful oasis glistening in the sunshine. Take measures to secure your property and your pool and make some time to review your liability coverage.
If you’re thinking about putting in a pool this season or if you already have one, now is the perfect time to review your coverage with your Merit Insurance broker. After discussing your current situation, you may choose to raise your liability coverage limit or you might consider an umbrella policy, which is a great way to protect your family by providing more protection on both your home and auto insurance policies.
