If you’re a homeowner who has a pool, or you’re thinking about adding one to the backyard this summer, you should make sure that you understand the swimming pool insurance requirements in Michigan before you jump in. It’s also a good idea to double-check the rules and regulations you need to follow.
This article focuses on the swimming pool insurance requirements in Michigan. We’ll take a look at the different parts of the pool you have to have to keep your swimmers safe and your assets protected. And we’ll find out the first step you should take if you need insurance for your pool.
Don’t find yourself in the deep end!
Pool Insurance Coverage
Pools with a permanent installation above the ground are covered and rated as any other structure on the property. Due to the risks involved, swimming pools expose you to increased liability.
Semi-permanent pools that can be disassembled are considered personal property in the state of Michigan and are covered by that clause.
Swimming Pool Insurance Requirements in Michigan
Accidents do happen in and around swimming pools. Insurance companies have taken stringent measures to lower accident risks in the swimming pool. If an accident happens and you did not comply with these measures, the insurance company will not offer indemnity. To be safe, check if you meet all the requirements.
Here are the swimming pool insurance requirements in Michigan:
1. Regulations and Codes
Before constructing a swimming pool in Michigan, you must review and meet Michigan regulations and codes.
According to Michigan regulations, “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure…shall first apply to the building official and obtain the required permit.” If you don’t meet these regulations, insurance companies will not cover your swimming pool.
Stop putting yourself, your family, and your neighbors at risk. Always submit an application to the local authority when constructing or renovating an in-ground pool.
2. Pool Fencing
In Michigan, you must surround your backyard pool with a 4-foot-tall wall, fence, or another protective barrier. It should separate the yard and the house from the pool.
In addition, the fence should have self-closing and self-latching gates that open outwards to prevent children or neighbors from coming in and taking a dip in your pool.
3. Safety Rails and Ladders
All above-ground pools require a locking or pull-up ladder to avoid unauthorized access to the pool. Pools must have stair rails and handrails to protect against slipping on the steps and stairs.
4. Non-Skid Flooring
All pools must be fitted with non-skid flooring to prevent slipping on wet surfaces. A slippery floor and water are a lethal mix. Non-skid flooring minimizes the risks of fatal accidents happening on the pool sides.
5. Diving Boards and Slides
Diving boards and slides pose a higher risk to swimming pool users. Insurance companies are wary of covering pools with diving boards and slides. They are prone to accidents and incidents. It’s one liability they want to avoid. Check with your agent to make sure you have coverage if you have these items.
6. Signs and Equipment
At present, we are not aware of any signage requirements for private pools in Michigan. But public swimming pools are required to apply depth markers and caution signage like “Slippery When Wet” and “No Jumping.”.
For an added precaution, you can have safety equipment such as a first aid kit for your home pool, but it’s not required by insurance.
7. Lighting
Another way to add protection, although it’s not required for Homeowners’ Insurance, is to install a light.
Public swimming pools must have proper lighting, but you can add them around your pool for night swimming for aesthetics or safety. They can also help prevent people from straying into the pool without your consent.
Autumn Insurance Can Help
Summer in Michigan can get pretty hot, and a swimming pool will attract a lot of attention from your family and friends. But you’ll need to have some understanding of the strict swimming pool insurance requirements in Michigan. Once you do, you can focus on the fun.
It begins by making sure that your home insurance policy is up to date. It will give you the chance to see if you meet Michigan’s swimming pool insurance requirements.
Connect with an agent and update your policy today. Contact us or connect with us on LinkedIn or Facebook to schedule an appointment. Our team is on standby to evaluate and develop the right insurance package for you.