Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Pool Damage From a Storm?

Homeowners often wonder if their insurance policies cover damage to their swimming pools, especially after a severe storm. While homeowners insurance can offer protection, coverage depends significantly on policy details and the cause of the damage. Understanding your policy’s nuances is important to determine what might be covered and what typically falls outside standard protection. This article explores how pools are covered, common exclusions, and the steps for preparing for and navigating a pool damage claim.

Understanding Homeowners Policy Coverage for Pools

Homeowners insurance policies categorize swimming pools differently, influencing their coverage. An in-ground pool, permanently attached to the main dwelling, is generally considered part of the “dwelling” structure. Above-ground pools or detached structures like pool houses are typically classified under “other structures” coverage. This distinction impacts coverage limits, as “other structures” usually have a lower limit, often 10% of dwelling coverage.

Coverage for pool damage under a standard homeowners policy applies when damage results from a direct physical loss caused by a covered peril. Common perils include windstorms, hail, lightning, or falling objects. For instance, if a tree falls into your pool due to a severe gust of wind, damaging its structure or equipment, this event would likely be covered. The policy covers sudden and accidental damage, not issues from gradual wear and tear or lack of maintenance.

A “direct physical loss” means damage must be directly caused by the covered event. If a storm’s wind causes debris to damage the pool liner, its repair or replacement is typically covered. Damage to pool equipment like pumps or filters is usually covered only if directly caused by a covered peril, not mechanical breakdown or age.

Common Exclusions from Coverage

Common exclusions can prevent homeowners insurance from covering pool damage, even if a storm is involved. Flood damage is a primary exclusion in standard homeowners policies; rising water from outside the property is typically not covered. To protect against flood-related pool damage, property owners generally need a separate flood insurance policy, often through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Damage from earth movement, such as earthquakes, landslides, or sinkholes, typically falls under standard policy exclusions. If geological shifts damage the pool’s structure, standard homeowners insurance likely won’t provide coverage unless specific earth movement endorsements are added. These endorsements may come with limitations and deductibles.

Homeowners policies generally do not cover damage from poor maintenance, wear, or gradual deterioration. For example, if a pool liner cracks due to age or neglect, or if equipment fails from lack of routine upkeep, these issues are not considered sudden and accidental and are excluded. Cosmetic damage, such as minor scratches or fading that does not impair function, is often not covered.

Preparing for a Pool Damage Claim

After discovering pool damage, especially following a storm, document it before initiating a claim. Take comprehensive photos and videos of all damaged areas, capturing angles and close-ups to show the extent of impact. Note the date and time the damage occurred, along with relevant weather details. This visual evidence is crucial for your claim.

While documenting, take steps to prevent further damage to the pool and surrounding property. This might involve temporarily covering exposed areas or shutting off power to damaged electrical components. Avoid permanent repairs until an insurance adjuster assesses the damage, as this could complicate the claim. Keep records of any temporary repairs and their costs.

Before contacting your insurer, review your policy documents to understand coverage limits, deductibles, and clauses pertaining to pool structures or equipment. Obtain detailed repair estimates from qualified contractors. These estimates, along with your documentation, provide a clear picture of repair costs.

The Pool Damage Claim Process

Once preparatory steps are complete, formally initiate and manage the pool damage claim. Contact your insurance company through their designated claim reporting channels, such as their phone line or online portal. Provide basic information, including your policy number, date of loss, and a brief description of the damage.

Following your report, the insurance company will assign a claims adjuster. The adjuster investigates the damage, verifies the cause, and determines coverage. When the adjuster visits, provide all gathered documentation, including photos, videos, and contractor estimates.

Throughout the claim, maintain open communication with your insurer, responding promptly to requests for additional information. After assessment, the adjuster typically provides a settlement offer. This offer details covered damages, the payout amount, and how your deductible applies. Review the settlement offer carefully. If the initial offer is unsatisfactory, you can provide additional evidence or request a re-evaluation.