Does Homeowners Insurance Cover a Pool Liner?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection for a dwelling and other property. Understanding how its components, such as the liner, are covered is important. Policies typically extend coverage to structures on the property, and pools often fall under this category. However, not all types of damage are universally covered.

Standard Homeowners Policy Coverage for Pools

Standard homeowners insurance policies generally categorize in-ground swimming pools or permanently installed above-ground pools as “other structures” under Coverage B. This coverage typically amounts to about 10% of the dwelling’s coverage amount. For example, if a home is insured for $300,000, the “other structures” coverage might be up to $30,000. Some insurers might classify an in-ground pool under dwelling coverage, especially if it shares the same foundation as the home. Portable above-ground pools, however, are usually considered personal property, covered up to around 50% of the dwelling’s coverage.

Coverage for pools, including their liners, typically operates on a “named perils” basis. This means only damage caused by risks specifically listed in the policy document are covered. If a peril is not explicitly named, damage is generally not covered. The pool liner is subject to the same terms and conditions as the pool itself, meaning its repair or replacement is covered only if the damage stems from a named peril.

Common Causes of Liner Damage Covered

Damage to a pool liner is typically covered if it results from a sudden and accidental event caused by a named peril listed in the homeowners insurance policy. Common perils include fire or lightning strikes. Damage from windstorms or hail is also frequently covered. Falling objects can also result in covered liner damage. Vandalism is another named peril that typically extends to pool liner damage.

Damage to Pool Liners Not Covered

Many types of pool liner damage are typically excluded from standard homeowners insurance policies. Damage resulting from a lack of maintenance, wear and tear, or gradual deterioration is generally not covered. This includes an old liner needing replacement due to aging, or damage from constant exposure to UV rays or chemicals. Freezing water in the pool due to improper winterization is another common exclusion.

Policies also typically exclude damage from ground movement, such as earthquakes or landslides, which often require separate specialized insurance policies. General flooding is also not covered by standard homeowners insurance and requires a separate flood insurance policy. Damage caused by pests or issues stemming from poor installation or manufacturing defects are usually not covered.

Steps After Liner Damage

Upon discovering damage to a pool liner that might be covered by insurance, homeowners should take immediate, specific actions. The first step involves thoroughly documenting the damage with photographs and videos before any attempts at repair are made. Capturing clear images from various angles provides essential evidence for the insurance claim.

After documentation, reasonable steps should be taken to prevent any further damage to the pool or surrounding property. This might include turning off pool pumps or covering the damaged area, but major repairs should be avoided without prior consultation with the insurer. Homeowners should then review their specific insurance policy documents to understand their coverage details and the claims process. Promptly contacting their insurance agent or company to report the damage is important, as there may be time limits for filing a claim.

Cooperating fully with the insurer’s investigation is important, including providing all requested documentation and allowing inspections of the damage. Obtaining repair estimates from qualified pool professionals helps assess the cost and facilitates the claim process. It is important to consider the policy’s deductible; if repair costs are less than the deductible, filing a claim may not be financially beneficial.