Real Estate Watch

Homebuyers often overlook pool liability issues

Many homebuyers underestimate the dangers of above-ground pools and disregard the various insurance and safety issues that need to be considered, warns the Insurance Information Institute.

When purchasing a pool, homeowners should abide by local safety standards, which may include the installation of a fence, deck or locks around the pool.

Because liability will increase with a pool installation, the trade group said homeowners should notify their insurance company to increase coverage. The group estimates that an umbrella liability policy, with an additional premium of about $200 to $300 a year, will provide $1 million of liability protection over what is already covered on a home.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says more than 3,200 people drown each year, most in residential swimming pools.

- Emily Bregel