Facts to Know about Home Insurance Policy and Trampoline Injuries

Trampolines are an entertaining outdoor feature, especially for your kids. However, before you install a trampoline on your property, you should find out if and how your homeowners policy covers trampoline accidents. Here's detailed information on this topic.

Does homeowners insurance policy cover trampolines?

While many insurers don't cover trampolines at all, some may cover your trampoline if you've incorporated all the necessary safety precautions. It's worth noting that while the standard home policies typically don't cover trampolines, you can solve this problem by adding the necessary endorsement/rider to your homeowners policy.

Trampoline safety guidelines

If you have a trampoline, here are safety guidelines you should follow to protect yourself and everyone else who'll use it:

• Ensure there is adult supervision whenever the trampoline is being used.
• Kids aged five and below shouldn't be allowed on the trampoline
• Only one individual should jump on the trampoline at a time.
• Don't permit kids to bounce off your trampoline.
• Don't allow kids to play on a trampoline if it's wet.
• Don't allow anyone to perform stunts or gymnast exercises, like flips and somersaults on your trampoline.
• Don't leave chairs or a ladder near your trampoline to ensure kids don't get on it without supervision.
• Ensure it's in a fenced location to avoid being held responsible for injuries sustained by outsiders who may jump on it for fun.

Do you need trampoline insurance?

If there is a trampoline on your property, you should ensure that your home insurance policy covers it. While trampolines are fun, they can also be dangerous. Emergency departments across the U.S. treat about 100,000 kids yearly for trampoline-related injuries. Even great gymnasts who can do all kinds of maneuvers can get hurt, and if an individual is injured on your trampoline, you could be liable for costly lawsuits and medical bills. Therefore, before you get a trampoline, ensure your policy covers medical expenses and personal injury liability. Moreover, you may wonder whether your trampoline will be covered in case it's damaged by a weather event, like a windstorm. In this case, your insurer will determine whether your policy's personal property coverage covers it or not.

Should you notify your insurer after purchasing a trampoline?

Yes, it's in your best interest to inform your insurance agent that you own a trampoline. This will help you determine whether your policy covers trampolines or not. Additionally, if you don't inform your insurer that you own a trampoline, there is the likelihood that your policy will be cancelled because you misrepresented your property. Your insurance carrier takes over your risks, so they should be fully informed about your unique risk exposures.

Compare insurance rates before you buy a trampoline

If there is a trampoline on your property, you'll like to pay more for your home insurance. Or your insurance policy may have a trampoline exclusion, which means they won't cover trampoline-related injuries. Therefore, talk to your agent when looking for home insurance that adequately protects you. If you don't have a trampoline yet, you should check with your insurer to find out if they cover it and also shop around to find out if owning one makes sense.

At Reata Insurance Group, we will help you get customized homeowners insurance in Texas. Contact us today to learn more.