At Gibb Insurance, we love seeing our Amherstburg neighbours make the most of summer—whether it's backyard BBQs, family pool parties, or lake days with your kayak or paddleboard. But with all this summertime fun comes a few risks that homeowners should be aware of.
Common Summertime Liabilities for Homeowners
- Pools and Trampolines
Pools and trampolines are summer favourites, but they can also raise your liability risk significantly. Accidental injuries, unauthorized use, or even neighbour kids sneaking in can expose you to costly claims. Always ensure gates are locked, safety features are maintained, and you have adequate liability coverage.
- Home Renovations and Deck Upgrades
Summer is renovation season, and any construction project can open you up to new risks—especially if you’re hiring contractors. Be sure to notify your insurance provider about any major projects to ensure your coverage reflects the added value—and potential hazards—of your improvements.
- Summer Toys: Kayaks, Paddleboards, ATVs, and More
These items are often not fully covered under standard home insurance policies. High-value equipment like golf clubs, mountain bikes, or watercraft may require endorsements or separate policies.
Make sure to review your policy to confirm these items are protected against theft, damage, or liability.
Tips to Protect Your Summer Fun
- Review Your Liability Limits: Make sure your liability coverage is enough to protect you from accidents involving pools, trampolines, or watercraft.
- Update Your Home Inventory: Keep an updated list of expensive summer gear and discuss with your broker if extra coverage is needed.
- Consider an Umbrella Policy: For extra peace of mind, a personal umbrella policy can extend your liability protection beyond standard coverage.
- Talk to Your Insurance Professional Before You Renovate: Some upgrades may leave you underinsured if your policy isn’t updated to reflect the changes.
At Gibb Insurance, we can help you review your coverage and ensure your summer fun doesn’t turn into a summer headache. Please reach out to us if we can help you: 519-736-8228