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Does homeowners insurance cover swimming pools? Many homeowners are diving into this important question. Providers like State Farm, Farmers, USAA, Erie Insurance, and Allstate offer homeowners insurance with pool coverage.
If you are getting home insurance and a pool, you should take the time to read our article "A Practical Guide for Understanding Homeowners Insurance".
Having a pool on your property increases risk, both for yourself and any guests you might have . So it's a given that your pool liability insurance costs will go up. Here's what you need to know if homeowners insurance covers pools, and other things you should consider before installing a pool.
Get the perfect home insurance policy at the best price by using our free comparison tool above
What You Should Know
- Some states and municipalities have pool requirements
- Having a pool means you must increase your liability coverage
- Additional coverage for pools also apply to hot tubs and spas
State and Local Swimming Pool Requirements
Depending on where you live, there might be local requirements that you need to be aware of that could impact your pool installation. For example, some jurisdictions require that any pool be surrounded by a gate that can be locked. This is to prevent drownings (and it might keep wildlife out of your pool).
| State | Fencing Requirements | Barrier Height | Pool Cover Regulations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Fencing required for residential pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Alaska | No statewide fencing requirement | N/A | Not mandatory |
| Arizona | Fencing or barrier required for pools | 5 feet minimum | Recommended |
| Arkansas | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| California | Mandatory fencing around pools | 5 feet minimum | Safety covers required for some pools |
| Colorado | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 5 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Connecticut | Barrier required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Delaware | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Florida | Fencing or barriers required | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover recommended, not mandatory |
| Georgia | Fencing or barrier required for all pools | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover recommended, not required |
| Hawaii | No statewide fencing requirements | N/A | Not mandatory |
| Idaho | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Illinois | Fencing required for residential pools | 5 feet minimum | No specific requirement |
| Indiana | Fencing required | 5 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Iowa | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Kansas | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Kentucky | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Louisiana | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Maine | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Maryland | Fencing required for residential pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Massachusetts | Fencing or barriers required | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover recommended, not mandatory |
| Michigan | Fencing required for all pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Minnesota | Fencing required | 5 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Mississippi | No statewide fencing requirements | N/A | Not mandatory |
| Missouri | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Montana | No statewide fencing requirements | N/A | Not mandatory |
| Nebraska | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Nevada | Barrier required for residential pools | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover not mandatory |
| New Hampshire | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| New Jersey | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| New Mexico | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| New York | Fencing required for all pools | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover not required |
| North Carolina | Barrier required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover not mandatory |
| North Dakota | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Ohio | Fencing required for residential pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Oklahoma | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Oregon | Fencing or barriers required | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover recommended, not mandatory |
| Pennsylvania | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Rhode Island | Fencing or barrier required for pools | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover recommended |
| South Carolina | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| South Dakota | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Tennessee | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Texas | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | No statewide requirement |
| Utah | Fencing or barriers required | 4 feet minimum | Pool cover recommended, not mandatory |
| Vermont | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Virginia | Fencing or barrier required | 4 feet minimum | No statewide requirement |
| Washington | Fencing required for residential pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| West Virginia | Fencing required | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Wisconsin | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
| Wyoming | Fencing required for in-ground pools | 4 feet minimum | Not mandatory |
In areas of Florida, you may want to get a stronger fence specifically to keep wildlife out. They tend to flock towards water, especially in hotter weather.
Pool owners can ensure that their pool and personal property is kept safe simply by having a gate and fence. Not to mention it can be quite the feature piece of a backyard if done nicely.
Read More: Homeowners Insurance Rate Increases By State
Some states and municipalities have very specific regulations requiring the distance of the fencing from the pool, the height of the fencing, and even the types of locks that might be required. Research and know what these requirements are before you install a pool. Some states may also have swimming pool insurance requirements.
Also keep in mind what kind of “extras” you were hoping to have: slides or a diving board might be prohibited by local ordinances or your homeowners policy.
An above-ground pool could also be treated differently because above-ground pool insurance costs are different. If you have questions, your insurance agent can help.
How Homeowners Policy Cover Your Pool
There are different provisions in your policy that will be affected by a pool. One is coverage for the structure itself covering the value of the actual, physical pool.
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An in-ground swimming pool is considered an additional structure, and is likely included in the “covered structures” portion of your homeowners policy, but you need to check what the limits are. That way you don't get a backyard pool put in and then realize that it won't be protected.
Read More: 5 Things to Know About Home Insurance
“Covered structures” generally have a limit, and you want to make sure that in case of a storm or other damage that the full value of your pool is covered. Coverage generally excludes damage caused by neglect.
Pools require considerable maintenance, and even a small leak could lead to mold and other serious issues. So make sure you're ready for the commitment.
Some homeowners policies may require you to buy additional swimming pool insurance. For liability purposes, you may want to do this anyway.
Above-ground pools are not considered an additional structure, as they can easily be removed from a property. This means that they are not going to be included in “covered structures,” and you may need to purchase additional insurance to cover any damage that might occur.
“Pop-ups” — which are large versions of kiddie inflatable pools — are so low in cost that they might not be eligible for structure coverage, but keep in mind that they are still considered pools for liability coverage.
Liability Coverage for A Swimming Pool
Regardless of the type of swimming pool liability insurance you might choose, you will need to discuss pool insurance cost with your carrier. You should do this before getting a swimming pool.
Insurers consider pools to be an “attractive nuisance.” Drownings are the top cause of in-home deaths for children under the age of five in some warm-weather states.
Having a pool means you must increase your liability coverage, and you might also want to consider additional umbrella coverage too. (Learn More: What does umbrella insurance cover?)
An umbrella policy can save you money if you're a homeowner with multiple needed policies. On top of the regular maintenance that a pool needs, which includes the safety features generally required, you need to make sure that the type of swimming pool you want will be covered under your policy.
Many of these restrictions, regulations, and additional coverage for pools also apply to hot tubs and spas. So if you are considering adding one of these, check with your carrier to find out how your policy might change.
Keep in mind, fault often doesn't matter in swimming pool-related lawsuits. In short, even if you are responsible and follow every law to prevent drownings and other injuries, you could still get sued.
Pool insurance coverage is one way to protect yourself with a permanent structure. Just make sure to talk to a homeowners insurance coverage agent about all your options.
Is Having a Pool Worth It
While there are various safety and insurance items to consider, installing a pool can also increase the value of your home. To find out more about how different carriers address pool coverage, check out the best homeowners insurance companies.
Keep in mind that poor maintenance can cause a higher risk of injury in connection to a pool. The medical costs of even a single claim can be high if someone becomes injured while at a pool party. Replacement cost if something breaks is also high.
Whether your dwelling coverage requires additional coverage or not, you may want to consider an umbrella liability policy. Responsible ownership can significantly reduce your liability risk, which is part of why so many homes continue to have pools on their property.
Keeping guests safe and wildlife out of the picture are great ways to ensure being able to enjoy having a pool as well as having home insurance with a pool coverage.
Make sure your home is protected by entering your ZIP code into our home insurance comparison tool below today.
The content on this site is offered only as a public service to the web community and does not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice. This site should not be used as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an insurance company or an attorney licensed or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. You should always consult a suitably qualified attorney regarding any specific legal problem or matter. The comments and opinions expressed on this site are of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the insurance company or any individual attorney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does homeowners insurance cover pool collapse?
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover pool damage if it's caused by a covered peril, such as a tree falling on it during a storm. However, collapse due to wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or gradual damage is typically not covered.
Does State Farm homeowners insurance cover pool damage?
State Farm pool coverage typically covers pool damage under the "other structures" portion of their homeowners policies, but coverage depends on the cause of damage and your specific policy terms. Always check with your State Farm agent for details.
Read More: State Farm Insurance Review
Does homeowners insurance cover pool damage from storm?
Yes, most homeowners insurance policies, including those from major providers, cover pool damage caused by storms. This often falls under the "other structures" coverage in your policy.
Are pool leaks covered by homeowners insurance?
Pool leaks are usually not covered by homeowners insurance unless they're caused by a sudden, accidental event. Leaks resulting from wear and tear or poor maintenance are typically excluded.
Make sure your home is protected by entering your ZIP code into our home insurance comparison tool below today.
Is an inground pool considered other structures?
Yes, most insurance companies consider an inground pool as part of the "other structures" coverage in a homeowners policy, along with detached garages, sheds, and fences. (Learn More: What is an HO-3 Insurance Policy?)
Do diving boards increase insurance?
Yes, diving boards often increase insurance premiums due to the higher liability risk they present. Some insurance companies may even refuse to cover pools with diving boards.
Are above ground pools covered by homeowners insurance?
They are usually covered under personal property coverage in an above ground pool homeowners insurance, not as "other structures" like inground pools. Coverage limits may differ, so check your policy details.
How much does a pool increase homeowners insurance?
On average, adding a pool can increase your homeowners insurance premium by 10% to 50%. The exact increase depends on factors like pool type, safety features, and your location. Learn more in our article "Why Your Car & Homeowners Insurance Rates Increased"
Do you have to tell insurance about a pool?
Yes, you should always inform your insurance company when you install a pool. Failing to do so could result in denied claims or even policy cancellation.
How much does homeowners insurance cost with a pool?
The cost varies widely based on factors like your location, home value, and pool type. On average, homeowners insurance with a pool might cost between $1,200 to $1,800 annually, but could be higher.
What does pool insurance cover?
Pool insurance typically covers damage to the pool structure from covered perils, liability for injuries occurring in or around the pool, and sometimes damage to pool equipment, make sure you know how to read a homeowners declaration page to get details about your coverage.
Will health insurance pay for a swimming pool?
Generally, health insurance does not pay for swimming pools. In rare cases, if a doctor prescribes pool therapy for a medical condition, insurance might cover part of the cost, but this is uncommon.
Read More: How To Find Affordable Health Insurance
Does above ground pool affect homeowners insurance?
Yes, an above ground pool can affect your homeowners insurance. It may increase your premium due to added liability risk, and you might need to adjust your coverage limits.
What does Farmers Insurance offer for pool coverage?
Farmers Insurance pool coverage often provides flexible options for both in-ground and above-ground pools. They may offer additional liability coverage specifically for pool owners.
Does USAA provide pool insurance?
Yes, USAA pool insurance is available and is known for its comprehensive coverage. As mentioned in our best military car insurance, their policies are tailored to meet the unique needs of military members who own pools.
What kind of pool coverage does Erie Insurance offer?
Erie Insurance pool coverage includes options for protecting your pool structure and offers additional liability protection for pool owners. They may have specific requirements for safety features like fencing.
How does Allstate handle pool coverage?
Allstate pool coverage provides choices for customizing your policy based on your specific pool type and needs. They typically offer coverage for both the pool structure and increased liability protection.
Does Progressive home insurance cover mold?
Progressive's home insurance typically covers mold damage only if it's the result of a covered peril, like a burst pipe. Mold from poor maintenance or humidity is usually not covered. (Read More: Progressive Insurance Customer Reviews)
Don’t wait until it’s too late – enter your ZIP code below into our free home insurance comparison tool to find affordable coverage today.