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Pools vs. Ponds. Tips to protect yourself from a liability claim

Pools and ponds can make for fun in the sun for you, your family, and friends, but they can also be a liability hazard and attract unwanted guests. It doesn't matter if you have an in-ground or above-ground pool or a pond on your property; you have a liability exposure with all of them.

If you have an in-ground pool, it should be enclosed by a fence that's at least five foot high and has a latching mechanism on all gates that access the pool area. If there's no fence, it must be protected by an acceptable automatic safety pool cover (check with your insurance carrier to be sure the pool cover meets the safety features required to obtain coverage). This will keep unwanted guests from getting into the pool when you're not able to monitor or use your pool.

If you have an above-ground pool, make sure the pool is installed to comply with your city's ordinances. These pools must also have latching gates at any deck steps that lead to the pool. If there isn't a deck attached to the pool, be sure the ladder is stored away from the pool when not in use.

A pool is consider an "attractive" nuisance, and therefore, whether you invited someone, especially children, onto your property, you are going to be held liable if they get hurt in your pool.  We recommend anyone with either an inground or above ground pool purchase an Umbrella Policy to protect above and beyond your homeowners insurance liability limits. 

Have questions or want a quote on a Personal Umbrella policy?  Please call our office and ask to speak with an agent or your customer service representative.