Of course, trampolines and treehouses are fun. What child doesn’t like jumping in the sun or sitting in a miniature house well above the ground? However, before releasing the children, it is important to understand that trampolines and treehouses may not work properly with your landlord’s insurance for safety reasons.
The pleasure that accompanies a trampoline can also involve risks, hence the possibility of consequences on insurance. Here are some things to consider when it comes to garden trampolines, treehouses, and home insurance.
IS THE PROPERTY INSURANCE TRAMPOLINE COVERED?
If you want to buy a trampoline or if you have already purchased one, you should read your home insurance or contact your insurance agent. Make sure you understand the terms of your policy regarding coverage for trampoline incidents or damage, as well as any country-specific exceptions that may affect your landlord’s insurance.
Insurance coverage for trampoline owners may vary by state and insurance company. The trampoline cover is generally managed in three ways:
No exclusions: this means that home insurance does not impose any restrictions on the possession or use of trampolines. If a visitor or guest is injured while jumping on your trampoline and is legally responsible for the resulting medical bills, liability insurance in your landlord’s policy can help cover the costs. Or if a storm breaks out and your trampoline damages your home or property, covering your home or other structures can help pay for repairs. If a tree crushes your diving board in a storm, personal property coverage can help cover the loss.
Excluding trampolines: If your policy states that trampolines are excluded from your landlord’s insurance coverage, your policy offers no protection for claims related to trampolines. In some cases, this can also mean that if you add a trampoline to your property, you may not be able to extend your landlord’s insurance. Your agent can help you understand the terms and coverage of your landlord’s insurance.
IS A TRAMPOLINE AN ”ATTRACTIVE NUISANCE”?
In some cases, a trampoline can be considered an “attractive nuisance”. According to Cornell Law School, an attractive nuisance is a dangerous feature on your property that naturally appeals to children. According to safety Coverage: Home insurance can cover a trampoline (within the limits and conditions of your policy) provided you take certain safety precautions, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.
is legal teaching, you can be held responsible if a child is injured on your trampoline, even if you have used it without authorization. In fact, a child may not understand the risk of harm associated with an attractive nuisance. Therefore, it may be in your best interest to restrict public access to the trampoline. According to Nolo.com, safety precautions such as keeping the trampoline in a fenced area can help limit the risk of liability for this type of injury.
DOES THE OWNER’S INSURANCE COVER TREEHOUSES ON YOUR PROPERTY?
Although treehouse exclusions are less common than trampoline exclusions, some insurers may still have requirements that apply to their owner’s insurance. If you are considering high-risk items such as a treehouse or swimming pool, make sure you have adequate protection by carefully checking your home insurance or speaking to your representative.
OTHER INSURANCE CONSIDERATIONS
Even if your insurance covers trampolines or treehouses, you may want to review your policy and decide if your coverage limits meet your needs. A limit is a maximum amount your insurer will pay for a covered claim. Your agent can help you adjust your coverage limits or decide if additional protection is appropriate.
One way to increase coverage for treehouse injuries is through a Personal Umbrella insurance policy (PUP). A puppy offers liability insurance that goes beyond your owner’s insurance limits and is usually up to $1 million.
