Choosing the Right Insurance for Your New Swimming Pool or Hot Tub

Your basic home insurance policy doesn’t cover risks involving your pool or hot tub. If there’s an unfortunate accident or your pool is damaged during the winter due to freezing or thawing, you’ll be glad you’ve got the right protection!

Adding the pool endorsement to your home insurance ensures that everything will go swimmingly! 

A specific endorsement can be added to your insurance policy to cover your above-ground pool or your hot tub. This endorsement covers: 

• maintenance and water-heating equipment
• the platform or patio providing access to your pool or hot tub
• labour costs for replacing or repairing your pool or hot tub

Did you buy an in-ground pool? The complementary protection for in-ground pools covers both this kind of pool and all related equipment.

Civil liability insurance is also required for pools and hot tubs because even with the strictest safeguards  accidents can happen at any time.

A few tips before taking the plunge!

• Make sure that your pool or hot tub complies with existing government regulations (enclosure equipped with self-closing and self-latching devices, as well as steps, ladders, etc.), as specified on the Légis Québec website or in your municipality’s bylaws.
• Keep lifejackets and ring buoys accessible for bathers.
• Keep a watchful eye when bathers are in the water and use immersion alarms to protect young children.

Worry-free pool closure for the season

When the time comes to close your outdoor pool for the season, make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have an above-ground pool, check the cover for wear-and-tear. Concerned about its condition? Have it checked by a professional. A worn pool cover might not hold up against the effects of freezing and thawing.

In the case of in-ground pools, check for cracks in the cement. If water gets in during the winter, ice could form and damage the pool.

Stack the odds in your favour

Carefully applying these few tips will reduce the risk of accident or damage as much as possible. However, should something unforeseen happen, your insurance broker is there to help you deal with the situation in the best possible way.

Did you buy or renovate a pool or hot tub in time for the summer? If so, your insurance needs might have changed! Contact your broker to check if you have all the coverage you need.