Trampolines are fun for all ages.
But there are a few things you should know before you bring this risk into your yard.
Trampolines are fun, but they do come with a certain level of risk. (Just take a close look at the warning label if you don’t believe us.)
Trampolines send approximately 100,000 people to the emergency room each year. You may be prepared to take on that risk…but is your insurance company?
Before you and your family drop hundreds of dollars on your new toy, you should look into the relationship between trampolines and home insurance. In this article, we’ll guide you toward the answers for your burning questions, including the biggest: “Does homeowners insurance cover trampolines?”
Trampoline Insurance
When it comes to trampoline insurance, there are two types of coverage you’ll want to consider.
Personal property coverage refers to physical damage that the trampoline might cause to your home. Here in Florida, for example, hurricanes (and even particularly strong thunderstorms) can send an unsecured trampoline right into your siding.
This type of coverage also refers to damage caused to your trampoline—including theft and vandalism—that may be covered by your policy.
However, the far bigger concern for trampoline insurance should be personal liability coverage.
In the event that someone is injured on your trampoline, your policy’s personal liability coverage might provide coverage for their medical bills. This coverage may also cover your legal fees in case they file a lawsuit against you.
Being “Careful” Is Not Enough
“I get it—trampolines can be dangerous. I’ll just tell my guests to be careful.”
Setting some ground rules about trampoline safety is always a good idea.
Installing a safety net, sticking to age and weight limits, limiting the number of people jumping at a time, and prohibiting flips are all excellent examples of trampoline safety.
The problem is that you can’t guarantee that nothing will ever go wrong.
A trampoline injury can happen even when following the rules. And a list of do’s and don’ts won’t be enough to convince your home insurance company that your new trampoline presents no additional risk to them.
Besides, it isn’t just invited guests you have to worry about. “Uninvited guests” could hold you liable for their injuries as well.
Wait…I Can Be Held Liable By a Trespasser?!
In some circumstances, yes.
According to Florida’s Attractive Nuisance Doctrine, homeowners must treat curious trespassers—such as children—with the same amount of caution as an invited guest.
Basically, this doctrine understands that certain things (trampolines, swimming pools, treehouses, etc.) may be simply too tempting for a child to pass up.
Therefore, the law stipulates that homeowners should take necessary safety precautions to prevent a fun-loving neighbor kid from getting injured on your trampoline.
This is also why it isn’t enough to simply “make sure” that all guests to your home use the trampoline safely. There’s always the chance that you won’t be there to lay down the law.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Trampolines?
It depends on the policy and the insurer.
Some home insurers are happy to provide coverage for a trampoline, while others won’t touch it with a 10-foot pole.
However, there are plenty of carriers that will provide trampoline protection if certain safety precautions are put in place. These safety measures typically include adding a safety net, purchasing a “springless” model, or installing an in-ground trampoline.
To find out for sure whether your trampoline is covered, speak to your insurance agent. S/he can tell you whether trampolines are a covered peril listed in your policy, as well as your coverage limits.
Do I Have to Let My Insurance Know About My Trampoline?
Ideally, you should ask your agent about your trampoline coverage before you get one.
If trampolines are not a covered peril on your policy, it is much better to get this information upfront (before you spend hundreds of dollars).
Another thing to discuss with your insurance agent is your premiums. Even if they are covered by your policy, oftentimes trampolines can lead to an increase in your insurance premiums.
If you’ve already installed a trampoline, don’t keep it from your insurance agent. This is one situation where ignorance is not bliss.
In the event that someone does get injured on your trampoline and files a lawsuit for damages, your home insurance company may have the right to deny any trampoline-related claims or even drop you entirely.
It’s simply not worth the risk!
Protecting Yourself On a Trampoline
As risky as trampolines are, there’s a reason that so many households have them anyway: They’re really fun!
Even if your home insurance policy provides coverage for trampolines with no exclusions, you should enact a few trampoline rules to keep your household and guests safe.
Must be at least 5 years of age to jump.
Must jump with adult supervision.
Only one person may jump at a time.
Don’t wear shoes or socks while jumping.
No flips, somersaults, or other acrobatic tricks.
No jumping onto or off the trampoline.
Use a safety net.
Install a fence around the property to discourage trespassing.
In addition to keeping people out of the emergency room, taking reasonable safety precautions for “attractive nuisances” reduces the risk of a lawsuit from an injured trespasser.
Another way to give yourself some extra protection is by getting umbrella insurance to increase your personal liability limits.
If an injury is severe enough, the resulting medical and legal fees are often enough to surpass your coverage limits. An umbrella policy can help ensure that you don’t have to pay out of pocket.
Make Sure Your Trampoline Is Covered
When used safely, trampolines are a great way to get some exercise while having fun. But before you make the decision to add one to your yard, you should look before you make the big leap.
Not all home insurance policies cover trampoline-related injuries or damage, so you’ll want to check with your insurance agent about your covered perils and coverage limits first.
However, by working with an independent insurance agent, you’ll have an additional advantage.
Because they are not tied to a single insurance company, independent agents can find quotes from across the market, so if your existing policy does not provide coverage for trampolines, they can find you one that does.
Independent agents are also great at identifying potential areas where you may not be adequately covered and can recommend policies and coverage limits that better fit your needs and risk profile.
If you’re considering getting a trampoline—or have any questions about your insurance—call Harry Levine Insurance. We’re happy to provide advice and guidance.
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