Trampoline Coverage in Home Insurance – Technologist

Trampolines are a source of fun and excitement for many families, but they also come with certain risks. If you have a trampoline or are considering getting one, you may wonder, “Does home insurance cover trampolines?” It is an important question because not all insurance policies treat trampolines similarly. 

According to Trampoline injury stats, Falls from trampolines can lead to severe injuries or even death. These injuries often include paralysis, which occurs when the spinal cord is damaged, potentially leaving a person unable to move parts of their body. Such severe outcomes can happen when someone falls off the trampoline onto the ground or other hard surfaces.

How Insurance Companies Handle Trampoline Coverage

Insurance companies have different ways of dealing with trampoline coverage. Some policies automatically include trampolines, while others may not cover them. Here are the three main ways insurance companies might approach trampoline coverage:

No Exclusions

If your home insurance policy doesn’t expressly exclude trampolines, you’re in luck—your coverage will probably extend to trampoline-related incidents. Your insurance would cover if someone gets hurt while bouncing or the trampoline damages a neighbor’s property. But before you set up that trampoline, it’s wise to double-check with your insurer to ensure you’re fully covered.

Coverage with Conditions

Some insurance companies will cover trampolines only if you meet certain safety conditions. That could mean setting up a high fence around the trampoline or adding soft ground materials like mulch or sand to cushion any falls. Trampolines are often considered “attractive nuisances,” drawing in kids and increasing the chances of accidents.

No Coverage

For many insurance companies, trampolines are a no-go. If your policy excludes trampolines, any accidents or damages linked to them won’t be covered. Your insurer might decide not to renew your policy if the trampoline is in your yard. If you can’t find an insurer willing to cover your trampoline, it might be best to reconsider having one.

When Does Your Insurance Cover Trampolines?

Whether your home insurance covers trampolines depends mainly on the specifics of your policy. Here are some scenarios where trampolines might be covered:

• Liability Coverage: If your insurance covers trampolines, it usually includes liability protection. If a guest or neighbor gets injured while using your trampoline, your insurance would cover the medical bills or legal expenses if they decide to sue you. However, this coverage may come with conditions, like requiring the trampoline to be secured with a safety net or in a fenced area.
• Personal Property Coverage: In rare cases, your home insurance might cover damage to the trampoline under personal property coverage. This could apply if a covered event, like a storm, damages the trampoline. However, this type of coverage is rare and often comes with limits.
• Exclusions: Even if your policy offers some coverage for trampolines, there may be exclusions. For example, injuries to family members using the trampoline might not be covered, or specific situations, for example, using the trampoline during a party, might not be covered.

What is the Cost of Trampoline Insurance?

You might need additional insurance if your home insurance policy doesn’t cover trampolines or offers limited coverage. Here are the possible costs involved:

• Adding a Rider: A rider or endorsement is an add-on to your existing policy that provides extra coverage for specific items or situations, like a trampoline. The cost of adding a rider can vary depending on the insurance company and your location, but it generally ranges from $100 to $300 per year.
• Increased Premiums: Even if your policy covers trampolines, having one could increase your insurance premiums. Trampolines are considered high-risk, and the insurance company may charge more to cover that risk.
• Umbrella Insurance: Another option is to purchase umbrella insurance, which provides additional liability coverage beyond the limits of your standard home insurance policy. This can be particularly useful if you have a trampoline, as it offers extra protection in case of serious injuries or legal claims.

What Happens If You Don’t Tell Your Insurance About a Trampoline?

Not informing your insurance company about a trampoline on your property can lead to severe problems. Here’s what could happen:

• Claim Denial: If someone gets injured on your trampoline and you haven’t informed your insurance company, they might deny the claim. That means you could be left paying medical bills and legal fees out of pocket.
• Policy Cancellation: Insurance companies don’t like surprises. If they find out you have a trampoline and don’t tell them, they could cancel your policy altogether. That could leave you without home insurance coverage, putting you at significant financial risk.
• Higher Premiums: If your insurance company finds out about your trampoline after taking out a policy, they might raise your premiums to reflect the increased risk. It could result in higher costs over time.

Innovative Strategies to Avoid Trampoline Claims

While trampolines can be a lot of fun, they also come with risks. To avoid having to make a claim on your home insurance, follow these safety strategies:

• Install Safety Features: Ensure your trampoline has a safety net and is placed in a fenced area. That can prevent accidents and may be required by your insurance company.
• Supervise Use: Always supervise children when they’re using the trampoline. Don’t allow more than one jumper at a time, as multiple jumpers increase the risk of injury.
• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Use the trampoline according to the manufacturer’s instructions, including weight limits and recommended ages.
• Regular Inspections: Check the trampoline regularly for wear and tear, such as loose springs or tears in the mat. Repair or replace parts as needed to keep the trampoline safe.
• Set Rules: Establish and enforce rules for trampoline use, such as no flips or somersaults, which are common causes of injuries.

How Trampolines Drive Up Your Insurance Rates

Insurance companies consider trampolines a high-risk item to increase your insurance rates. Here’s how:

• Increased Liability: Trampolines are associated with a higher risk of injury, especially for children. It means there’s a greater chance of someone getting hurt and filing a claim against your insurance. To cover this increased risk, insurance companies may charge higher premiums.
• Potential for Lawsuits: If a guest or neighbor gets injured on your trampoline, they might sue you for damages. The cost of defending against a lawsuit and paying any settlement or judgment can be substantial, leading insurance companies to raise rates for trampoline owners.
• Maintenance and Safety Concerns: Trampolines require regular maintenance to remain safe. Insurance companies might increase your rates to account for the possibility that a poorly maintained trampoline could lead to an accident.

Additional Coverages for Trampolines

If you’re concerned about the risks associated with trampolines, you might want to consider additional insurance coverages:

• Liability Coverage Increase: You can ask your insurance company to increase the liability limits on your home insurance policy. That provides more protection in case of an accident involving your trampoline.
• Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance offers extra liability coverage beyond the limits of your standard policy. It can be helpful if you have a trampoline, as it provides added protection against major claims or lawsuits.
• Trampoline-Specific Rider: Some insurance companies offer specific riders or endorsements that cover trampolines. These riders may include additional safety requirements but can give you peace of mind knowing you’re fully covered.

Conclusion

So, does home insurance cover trampolines? The answer depends on your policy and insurance provider. Some policies may cover trampolines, while others may exclude them or require certain safety features. Being proactive lets you enjoy your trampoline with peace of mind, knowing you’re fully protected.