While you and your family are spending time together during the summer months, those activities that you enjoy so much could also come with risks. From vacation homes to recreational vehicles you need to make sure you are protected in case an accident occurs. Here are some areas of recreation where you could be most liable.
Vacation Home or Rental Property - If you have a vacation or second home that you use for trips or if you rent the property for profit during the times you don't use the home personally, there are many insurance liabilities you must address. You'll need either a second homeowner's policy or possibly a seasonal policy for basic coverage. Other protection could include personal property coverage, an umbrella policy for additional liability coverage for guests, an additional rider or a commercial landlord policy, flood insurance and hidden water damage coverage.
Recreational Vehicles - Boats may be automatically covered by your homeowner's policy, but coverage is limited depending on the size of the boat and motor. Personal watercrafts, such as jet skis, will probably require a separate policy. Most non-motorized watercraft, - kayaks, canoes, rafts and rowboats - are covered under homeowner's. Golf carts, personally owned, are usually under the homeowner's and auto policies are typically only provided by endorsement. Carts used off premises may require a separate policy or added to your auto policy. All-terrain vehicles are not usually covered by auto policies but they may be partially covered by homeowner's.
Home Recreation - If you install or have a pool, you may need to increase liability coverage on your homeowner's policy. If you have a trampoline or bounce-in house, you have the same liability issues as with a pool. So your homeowner's policy needs to include trampoline coverage. If you play basketball or football, bicycle at your home or in the neighborhood, most likely your health insurance will come into play. But if you miss work from a sports injury, disability insurance could be a big help.
Home Renovations - If you are considering making home additions for renovations during the summer, you need to protect yourself if a contractor is injured while working on your property. You need to make sure anyone working in your home is licensed and has both liability insurance and workers' compensation. And this includes subcontractors. Once the work is finished, you need to make sure your homeowner's is updated to include the additional improvements.
Summer Storms - With hot weather, you usually will see summer storms. Lighting and hail can cause damage but you need to review your homeowner's coverage, particularly in light of the current issues with roofing and Florida insurance companies. If water seeps into you home causing damage, homeowner's won't cover flooding. You'll need a separate flood policy.
If you have any questions regarding your liability this summer, contact your J.P. Perry Insurance agent. They can review your policies and help you fill any gaps you may have.