Did you know…
Your insurance company labels your pool as an “attractive nuisance?” Now, you might be scratching your head wondering what that even means. An attractive nuisance is an appealing item that could be a danger to children. Pools, playground equipment, trampolines, lawn mowers, gasoline pumps, abandoned cars, and certain landscaping features such as paths and stairs can look enticing to kids but present a real hazard.
Attractive nuisances are a bit of an oxymoron. They look attractive but often to the most unassuming victims. The attractive nuisance doctrine is a law that places a special responsibility on you (the home owner) to protect the children who may come onto your property. If an accident or injury were to occur, home and landowners can be found responsible if:
- You have knowledge that there’s a chance a child may trespass on your property
- An object or condition on your land could cause harm or death to children
- The child/children harmed are too young to understand the dangers involved
- The cost to repair or maintain the attractive nuisance is small when compared to its risks
- You have failed to take reasonable action to eliminate the attractive nuisance
Because they increase your liability, attractive nuisances can cause your homeowner’s insurance rates to go up. If you do have these items on your property, it’s important to take the proper precautions and safety measures to ensure children are protected. And if you’re purchasing a property or looking to build or install something that’s considered an attractive nuisance, it’s important that you know exactly what the law states. In any case, it’s a good idea to talk to your insurance agent about your situation and confirm you have the coverage you need.
Have questions? Contact us to speak with a licensed insurance professional.