TL ; DR (3 Minute Read)
- Pools, trampolines, swing sets, and even fire pits can create liability risks for homeowners.
- Injuries on your property could result in lawsuits, medical expenses, or higher insurance premiums.
- Homeowners insurance provides liability coverage, but risky items like pools may require extra precautions.
- Umbrella insurance can add an extra layer of protection beyond standard limits.
- our team at Neighborhood Insurance Agency can help review your coverage so you know where you stand.
Backyard Fun Comes With Responsibility
There’s nothing like hearing kids laughing in the pool, bouncing on a trampoline, or climbing into a treehouse. But as fun as these activities are, they also come with risks.
If someone gets hurt in your backyard, you could be held legally liable — and that can lead to lawsuits, medical bills, and financial stress. That’s why it’s important to understand the hidden liabilities in your yard and how your insurance may respond.
Common Backyard Risks and How to Reduce Them
1. Swimming Pools & Hot Tubs
- The risk: Pools are considered “attractive nuisances,” meaning they draw kids in, sometimes unsupervised. Drowning remains the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1–4.
- How to reduce risk: Install a fence with a self-latching gate, remove pool ladders when not in use, and consider pool covers and alarms.
2. Trampolines
- The risk: Over 100,000 kids visit ERs yearly from trampoline injuries — from broken bones to spinal trauma.
- How to reduce risk: Use safety netting, supervise closely, and follow age and weight guidelines.
3. Swing Sets & Monkey Bars
- The risk: Falls onto hard surfaces can cause broken bones or concussions.
- How to reduce risk: Anchor equipment securely and use mulch, rubber tiles, or wood chips underneath.
4. Treehouses
- The risk: Unstable construction and unsafe access points can cause serious falls.
- How to reduce risk: Build low (under 10 feet), inspect regularly, and remove ladders when not supervised.
5. Fire Pits & Grills
- The risk: Burns and accidental fires are common hazards.
- How to reduce risk: Never leave flames unattended, keep children at a distance, and maintain a safe barrier.
What Your Insurance Covers (and What It Might Not)
Most homeowners insurance policies include liability coverage, typically between $100,000 and $500,000. This can help pay for:
- Medical bills – Doctor visits, hospital care, or pain and suffering.
- Legal defense costs – Attorney fees and court expenses if you’re sued.
- Lost wages – If the injured person can’t work.
- Death benefits – Compensation to families in tragic cases.
But here’s the catch: Some insurers limit or deny coverage for high-risk items like pools, trampolines, and treehouses unless safety measures are in place.
That’s why many families choose to add an umbrella policy, which provides an extra $1 million+ in liability coverage once your homeowners limit is used up.
Key Takeaway
Backyard fun should be about making memories and not worrying about lawsuits. By taking smart safety precautions and reviewing your insurance coverage, you can protect both your guests and your finances.
Just letting you know here at Neighborhood Insurance Agency, we’re here to answer your questions and help you figure out if your current coverage is enough. Sometimes, a quick policy review gives you the peace of mind you didn’t know you needed.
Santa Ana, CA 92705
Frequently Asked Questions
Because they’re an “attractive nuisance,” especially for children, and accidents can be severe.
Not always — some carriers exclude trampolines or require safety features like netting.
Usually between $100,000 and $500,000.
That’s where an umbrella policy can provide extra protection.
Yes, especially for pools, trampolines, or treehouses, since some insurers require disclosure.
Sometimes. High-risk features may increase costs, but safety measures can help offset them.
our team at Neighborhood Insurance Agency can review your current coverage and let you know if this is something to add.
Reference
Insurance Information Institute. (2024). Understanding homeowners insurance coverage. Retrieved from https://www.iii.org/article/homeowners-insurance-basics
National Safety Council. (2024). Preventing child injuries at home. Retrieved from https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/child-safety/childproofing-your-home
