Does Home Insurance Cover Decks, Pools, and Patios?
Most of us can assume the basics are covered in our home insurance. When it comes to “extra” features like decks, pools, and patios, homeowners often wonder: does my home insurance cover these?
Typically, your home insurance policy does cover your deck, pool, or patio, but be sure to check the details.
In Canada, where weather conditions can be harsh and unpredictable, making sure you have coverage for these outdoor structures becomes even more important. Here’s what you need to know:
Understanding home insurance coverage:
Home insurance typically provides coverage for the physical structure of your home, personal belongings, liability protection, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to covered perils.
Coverage for outdoor structures, though, will vary depending on your insurance policy and the specific features of your property. It’s always a good idea to check with an expert and carefully read your policy to make sure there are no surprises.
Are decks covered by home insurance?
Decks are popular additions to Canadian homes, offering a space for relaxation and outdoor activities, sometimes year-round. In most cases, standard home insurance policies do provide coverage for decks.
The extent of coverage may differ based on factors such as the materials used, the size of the deck, and whether it's attached to the home or freestanding.
Generally, if a peril covered by your policy damages your deck—such as fire, vandalism, or a fallen tree—your insurance will help cover the repair or replacement costs. As always, double-check your specific policy and make sure you mention all aspects of your property to your broker when purchasing a new policy.
Are private pools covered by home insurance?
Pools are a great way for families to cool off during the sweltering Canadian summers! However, they also pose certain risks, including accidents and property damage. Whether your home insurance covers your pool depends on various factors, including the type of pool you have (e.g., above-ground or in-ground) and whether it's permanent or temporary.
In many cases, home insurance policies do offer some level of coverage for pools, including liability protection, which will help protect you financially if a friend, neighbour, or loved one is injured while using your pool. Coverage for damage to the pool itself may be limited, and additional insurance may be necessary for comprehensive protection, especially for in-ground pools.
Many insurers will require you to have a safety fence with a locking gate and that it meet certain height requirements.
Is my patio covered by home insurance?
Similar to decks, coverage for patios under home insurance can vary from fully covered to excluded, depending on whether the structure is attached to your house, what materials it’s made of, and whether any extra features (like a built-in barbecue, for example) are an integral part of this space.
You’ll need to check with an expert to make sure you’re fully covered. If a covered peril damages your patio, such as a severe storm or fire, your insurance will help cover the repair or replacement costs.
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As a homeowner in Canada, while home insurance generally provides coverage for your dwelling and personal belongings, understanding the details of your coverage for outdoor structures like decks, pools, and patios will help you feel be sure of your coverage.
Before assuming your outdoor features are fully covered by your home insurance policy, take the time to review your policy documents and discuss any concerns with your Western Financial Group home insurance experts.
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