Do Trampolines Raise Homeowners Insurance?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection for property owners against various risks. It covers damage to the home’s structure and contents from perils like fire, theft, or natural disasters.

It also includes liability protection for legal expenses and damages if someone is injured on the property and the homeowner is found responsible. This insurance safeguards significant financial investments and mitigates losses from unforeseen events or accidents on the premises.

Trampoline Impact on Homeowners Insurance

Owning a trampoline can significantly alter a homeowners insurance policy due to the increased risk of injury it presents. Insurers view trampolines as a substantial liability exposure, leading to policy adjustments. Premiums might increase by 5% to 25%, or $50 to $200 annually, depending on the insurer and location.

Some providers may exclude trampoline incidents from coverage entirely via an endorsement. This means if an injury occurs, the policy will not cover medical expenses, legal fees, or settlement costs, leaving the homeowner responsible. In severe cases, an insurer might cancel or decline to renew a policy if a trampoline is discovered, especially if not initially disclosed.

The legal concept of an “attractive nuisance” is relevant to trampolines and homeowners’ liability. An attractive nuisance is a dangerous property condition likely to attract children who cannot appreciate the risk. Because trampolines appeal to children and carry a high injury risk, they are often categorized as attractive nuisances, increasing homeowner responsibility if an unsupervised child is injured. This doctrine places a higher duty of care on property owners to protect children, even trespassers.

Insurers adopt different stances on trampolines. Some do not insure homes with trampolines, while others allow them under specific conditions. These conditions often include mandatory safety measures, such as netting and padding installation, or adult supervision during use. Homeowners should communicate with their insurer about having a trampoline to understand policy implications and avoid coverage gaps or violations.

Factors Influencing Insurance Decisions

Specific safety measures can influence an insurer’s decision regarding coverage and rates for properties with trampolines.

Physical Safety Measures

Installing a safety enclosure net around the trampoline is a common requirement, preventing users from falling off. Adequate padding over springs and frame cushions impacts and reduces injury risk from hard components. These barriers mitigate inherent dangers.

Securing the trampoline area with a sturdy fence, either around the yard or the trampoline itself, prevents unauthorized access, especially by neighboring children. This reduces injuries to individuals not under direct supervision.

Usage Rules and Supervision

Establishing clear rules regarding supervision affects insurance decisions. Many insurers require adult oversight whenever the trampoline is in use to ensure safety protocols are followed and to intervene if an accident occurs. Limiting users to one person helps prevent collisions and awkward landings. Enforcing age restrictions, such as prohibiting very young children, also reduces serious accidents.

Maintenance and Documentation

Regular maintenance and inspection of equipment are necessary for continued safety. This includes checking for worn springs, torn mats, or damaged netting and replacing components as needed. Securing the trampoline against high winds with anchor kits prevents it from becoming a hazard. Demonstrating a proactive approach to safety can positively influence an insurer’s risk assessment.

Steps for Homeowners

Homeowners considering or owning a trampoline should contact their insurance provider before installation or immediately thereafter. This allows them to understand how a trampoline might affect their policy, including premium increases, coverage exclusions, or safety requirements. Early communication helps avoid policy violations or gaps in liability coverage.

Homeowners should review their existing policy documents for clauses related to recreational equipment, especially trampolines. These documents may contain specific exclusions, limitations, or requirements that could impact coverage. Understanding these terms allows homeowners to make informed decisions and address issues directly with their insurer.

Discussing liability coverage limits with their insurer is an important step for homeowners with trampolines. Given the increased injury risk, standard liability limits might not be sufficient to cover medical expenses, lost wages, or legal settlements from a serious accident. Homeowners should consider purchasing an umbrella insurance policy, which provides additional liability protection beyond standard homeowners insurance, typically offering an extra $1 million to $5 million in coverage for a modest annual premium.

Documenting all safety measures taken, such as photographs of installed netting, padding, and fencing, and records of maintenance and inspections, can be beneficial. This documentation serves as evidence of the homeowner’s commitment to safety, useful in discussions with the insurer or in the event of a claim. Transparency with the insurance company about the trampoline’s presence is important to ensure coverage remains valid and effective.