Does Homeowner Insurance Cover Trampolines? Navigating the Bouncing Risks

Let’s cut right to the chase: homeowner’s insurance coverage for trampolines is a complicated issue, often varying greatly depending on your specific policy, insurance company, and even your location. While some policies might offer coverage, others might exclude trampolines entirely, or require specific safety measures be in place to qualify for coverage. Ignoring this potential coverage gap can leave you financially vulnerable should an accident occur.

The Bouncing Reality: Trampolines and Liability

Trampolines are a source of immense fun and physical activity, but they also come with inherent risks. A tumble, a misjudged jump, or a simple loss of balance can lead to injuries ranging from minor sprains to severe fractures, head trauma, and even paralysis. And that’s where your homeowner’s insurance policy enters the picture, specifically its liability coverage.

This coverage is designed to protect you financially if someone is injured on your property and you are found legally responsible. If a guest, neighbor, or even an uninvited trespasser gets hurt on your trampoline, they could potentially sue you for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Why Trampolines Are a Red Flag for Insurers

Insurance companies view trampolines as a high-risk item due to the increased likelihood of injuries. This increased risk translates into a higher potential for claims, making insurers wary. They might react in several ways:

• Exclusion: Some insurers flat-out exclude trampolines from coverage. This means that if someone is injured on your trampoline, you’re on your own to cover the costs.
• Cancellation or Non-Renewal: If an insurer discovers you have a trampoline and they don’t cover them, they might cancel your existing policy or refuse to renew it when it expires.
• Increased Premiums: Insurers that do offer coverage for trampolines often charge higher premiums to reflect the increased risk.
• Specific Requirements: Insurers may require specific safety measures to be in place before they’ll provide coverage, such as netting, padding, secured ladders, and locked gates to prevent unauthorized access.

Steps to Take Before You Bounce

Before you invest in a trampoline, or if you already own one, take these crucial steps to protect yourself and your family:

1. Review Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy: This is the most critical step. Carefully read your policy documents, paying close attention to exclusions and limitations related to recreational equipment or “attractive nuisances” (which trampolines often fall under).
2. Contact Your Insurance Agent: Don’t rely solely on your policy documents. Contact your insurance agent directly to discuss your trampoline and confirm whether it’s covered, and under what conditions. Ask specific questions about liability coverage and any requirements for safety features.
3. Consider an Umbrella Policy: An umbrella policy provides additional liability coverage above and beyond your homeowner’s insurance policy. This can be a valuable safeguard if you’re concerned about the potential costs of a serious trampoline-related injury.
4. Implement Safety Measures: Regardless of your insurance coverage, prioritize safety. Install safety netting, padding around the trampoline, and a ladder that can be secured to prevent unsupervised use. Supervise children while they’re using the trampoline and enforce strict rules.
5. Document Everything: Keep records of all safety measures you’ve taken, including photos and receipts. This documentation can be helpful if you ever need to file a claim or defend yourself in a lawsuit.
6. Inform your insurance agent: Even if the policy initially covers it, inform them if you install any new features to your trampoline or property. This can allow for reassessment of coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Trampolines and Homeowner’s Insurance

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarity on this complex issue:

1. If my homeowner’s insurance policy excludes trampolines, what are my options? You may need to shop around for a different insurance company that offers coverage for trampolines. Alternatively, you could consider removing the trampoline from your property. Another option is to obtain a separate rider policy to cover the trampoline liabilities.
2. What is an “attractive nuisance,” and how does it relate to trampolines? An “attractive nuisance” is a feature on your property that is likely to attract children and could potentially be dangerous. Swimming pools, abandoned appliances, and trampolines are common examples. Homeowners have a legal responsibility to take reasonable steps to prevent children from being injured by these nuisances, even if they are trespassing.
3. Will my homeowner’s insurance cover injuries to members of my own household on the trampoline? Generally, homeowner’s insurance policies don’t cover injuries to residents of the insured household. Medical payments coverage might help with initial medical expenses, but it typically has low limits. Your health insurance would primarily cover medical bills for household members.
4. What kind of safety measures do insurance companies typically require for trampoline coverage? Common requirements include: A fully enclosed safety net surrounding the trampoline, padding covering the springs and frame, a ladder that can be secured to prevent unauthorized access, posted warning signs, and regular inspection and maintenance of the trampoline.
5. If a neighbor’s child is injured on my trampoline while I’m not home, am I still liable? Potentially, yes. As the homeowner, you have a responsibility to maintain a safe property and prevent foreseeable injuries, even if you’re not present. The concept of “attractive nuisance” applies here. The level of supervision and the measures you’ve taken to secure the trampoline will be considered.
6. If I have a trampoline park on my property, does my homeowner’s insurance cover it? No. A trampoline park is considered a commercial enterprise, requiring commercial liability insurance, which is different from homeowner’s insurance. Operating a business, even on your property, voids homeowner’s insurance coverage for related accidents.
7. Does renter’s insurance cover trampoline-related injuries? Renter’s insurance typically covers your personal belongings and liability for injuries that occur within your rented dwelling. However, most policies do not extend liability coverage for injuries sustained on a trampoline located outside of the rented dwelling. It is best to check your individual policy for clarification.
8. How does the size or type of trampoline (e.g., above-ground vs. in-ground) affect insurance coverage? In general, the larger the trampoline, the higher the perceived risk, and the more likely an insurer is to exclude or increase premiums. In-ground trampolines may be viewed slightly more favorably, but this depends on the insurer and local regulations.
9. What if I only use the trampoline occasionally? Does that affect my coverage? Regardless of how often you use the trampoline, the risk remains. Most insurance companies will treat the presence of a trampoline the same, regardless of its frequency of use.
10. What happens if I don’t disclose the trampoline and someone gets injured? Failing to disclose a trampoline to your insurance company can be considered misrepresentation, which could void your policy. In the event of a claim, the insurer could deny coverage, leaving you financially responsible for all damages.
11. Can I get a standalone insurance policy specifically for my trampoline? While not as common, some specialty insurance companies offer standalone liability policies for trampolines. These policies can provide an extra layer of protection, especially if your homeowner’s insurance policy excludes trampolines.
12. What else should I consider besides insurance when owning a trampoline? Besides insurance, it is crucial to prioritize safety and follow manufacturer guidelines. Regular inspection, proper maintenance, parental supervision, educating users on safety rules, and restricting use to one person at a time can significantly reduce the risk of injuries. Also, consider local ordinances or HOA rules that may regulate trampoline ownership.

Ultimately, understanding your homeowner’s insurance policy and taking proactive safety measures are essential for responsible trampoline ownership. Don’t let the fun turn into a financial nightmare – do your homework, talk to your insurance agent, and prioritize safety.