Are Trampolines an Insurance Risk?

Trampolines seem like a lot of fun, and they can be, but they can also be a safety risk. Because they do present a significant amount of risk, it’s important for individuals to take precautions to minimize those risks. However, it’s also important for homeowners to realize there are liability risks involved in these situations as well. If you are planning to purchase a trampoline or you already have one, it pays to contact your home insurance provider to discuss those risks.

What are the Risks of a Trampoline?

It may not seem like a trampoline is that big of a risk, but it can be. Your first priority is to ensure that your trampoline is properly set up and properly supervised whenever in use. In addition, you'll want to discuss safety rules with anyone who uses it.

The problem with trampolines is that they often create situations where people can fall and be hurt. A hit to the head may only cause a scrape, but it can also lead to brain injuries or even fatalities.

How Can Home Insurance Help You?

If an incident occurs, your home insurance policy may be able to provide you with some coverage for the incident. Though this is often only the case if your agent knows about and has recorded the existence of the trampoline. Additionally, your policy should not have an exclusion. Exclusions for trampolines can be common in some cases. These mean that, if there is an incident related to the trampoline, the insurer does not provide coverage for the claim. In this case, your liability risks are very significant.

If a neighborhood child were to jump on the trampoline, fall and be hurt, you could be financially responsible for his or her medical costs. Your home insurance policy may cover the costs, but if the policy has an exclusion for trampolines, it will not.

When you plan to have and use a trampoline take every precaution possible to protect against the risks of falls and minimize who uses it. Most important, contact your insurance agent and ensure your trampoline is not an exclusion on your policy. Taking this step can help protect you from the risks associated with liability losses.