Backyard Risks That Can Impact Your Homeowners Insurance in New Jersey
- Adam Overmyer
- Jun 4
- 5 min read
When you think about your dream backyard—maybe it has a pool, a trampoline for the kids, and even a friendly family dog—it’s easy to focus on the fun. But if you're a homeowner in New Jersey, especially with a property valued between $500,000 and $1 million, it's important to consider how these features affect your homeowners insurance eligibility and liability protection.
Many insurance companies have specific rules when it comes to swimming pools, trampolines, and certain dog breeds. In some cases, these backyard additions can lead to coverage exclusions, higher premiums, or even denied coverage altogether.
Let’s break down what you need to know before installing, purchasing, or even adopting.
1. Swimming Pools: A Refreshing Risk
Swimming pools are a popular addition to many backyards in New Jersey—especially during our hot, humid summers. But from an insurance perspective, pools are seen as an “attractive nuisance,” meaning they can attract children or guests and pose a liability risk.
Insurance Implications:
Most insurance companies require fencing around a pool—typically at least 4 feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate.
Diving boards and slides can be red flags. Some insurers may flat-out decline coverage or exclude liability if your pool includes one.
Even if you meet all safety requirements, insurers may require higher liability limits or recommend adding an umbrella policy.
Why It Matters:
A guest—or worse, a neighbor’s child—could be injured or drown in your pool. Without proper coverage, you could be left financially exposed.
Pro Tip:
Before installing a pool, talk to your insurance agent. Not all carriers will insure homes with in-ground or above-ground pools, especially if there’s no secure barrier or if a diving board is involved.
2. Trampolines: Jumping Into Liability Trouble
Trampolines are a favorite for kids, but they’re also responsible for thousands of emergency room visits every year. That’s why they’re one of the most common liability triggers in a homeowners insurance policy.
Insurance Implications:
Some insurance companies exclude trampoline coverage entirely—even if it’s enclosed with a net.
Others allow trampolines but only if they meet certain safety requirements (e.g., safety enclosures, anchored to the ground, adult supervision).
Some carriers may charge a higher premium or only allow coverage if you sign a waiver.
Why It Matters:
If a child from your neighborhood jumps on your trampoline, gets hurt, and their parents sue you, your liability coverage could be on the line—especially if the insurance company has a trampoline exclusion.
Pro Tip:
If you already have a trampoline or are thinking of adding one, check with your carrier. It’s better to be informed than surprised when a claim gets denied.
3. Dogs: Man’s Best Friend, but Not Every Insurer’s
We love our dogs—and most of them are loyal, loving members of the family. But from an insurance perspective, dogs are a major liability exposure, especially certain breeds.
Insurance Implications:
Many companies maintain a “restricted breed list.” Breeds commonly on these lists include:
Pit Bulls
Rottweilers
German Shepherds
Dobermans
Akitas
Wolf hybrids
Some carriers will not write the policy at all if a restricted breed is in the home.
Others may exclude dog liability or allow coverage only with additional underwriting (e.g., a formal letter from a vet or obedience certification).
If your dog has a history of biting, most companies will either exclude coverage or decline to renew.
Why It Matters:
Even the friendliest dog can bite when provoked. Medical bills and lawsuits stemming from dog bites can easily exceed $100,000 in damages.
Pro Tip:
Disclose your dog’s breed up front. Trying to hide it can result in a denied claim or canceled policy. If your current carrier excludes coverage, we can help you find one that will work with your situation.
How These Risks Affect Insurance Eligibility
For homeowners in New Jersey, especially those in mid-to-high-value homes, insurance companies want to know they’re covering well-maintained, low-risk properties. Pools, trampolines, and certain dog breeds introduce heightened liability risks, which:
Affect your eligibility for coverage
May raise premiums
Could result in policy cancellation or non-renewal
Not all insurers treat these risks the same. That’s why it's crucial to:
Be proactive
Know what’s in your yard (and who’s using it)
Choose an insurance partner who knows how to navigate the market
What Homeowners Can Do to Protect Themselves
Here’s how you can enjoy your backyard while staying protected:
✅Check Your Policy
Don’t assume you’re covered. Review your declarations page and look for exclusions related to pools, trampolines, or dog liability.
✅ Increase Your Liability Limits
For many NJ homeowners, the standard $100,000 in personal liability just isn’t enough. Consider raising it to $300,000 or $500,000, or better yet—add a personal umbrella policy with $1 million+ in coverage.
✅ Install Proper Safety Features
Fence your pool with a locking gate
Use trampoline safety nets and secure it to the ground
Keep your dog on a leash or behind a fence—even if it’s friendly
✅ Communicate With Your Insurance Agent
Let your agent know about any backyard additions before you install or adopt. A good agent will tell you how it impacts coverage and shop for the right carrier if needed.
Why This Matters More in 2025
Insurance companies across New Jersey have become more selective. Between rising litigation, medical costs, and more frequent liability claims, carriers are tightening their guidelines. If you’re not careful, the features that make your backyard fun could make your policy unaffordable—or uninsurable.
Final Thoughts: Proactive Is Always Better Than Reactive
At the Overmyer Insurance Agency, we’ve helped countless NJ homeowners protect their assets and stay properly insured—without giving up the things they love about their home.
If you have a pool, trampoline, or dog (or plan to add one), we’re here to review your current policy, shop around if needed, and give you honest advice.
Want a quick review of your policy to make sure you're covered?Give us a call or schedule a time to chat here: [Calendly link]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Will homeowners insurance cover a trampoline injury?A: It depends on your policy. Some carriers exclude trampoline-related injuries. Always check with your agent before installing one.
Q: Is liability for dog bites included in my home insurance?A: Usually yes, but some breeds are excluded. If your dog is on a restricted list, coverage may be denied or limited.
Q: Do I need to tell my insurance company about my pool?A: Absolutely. If your pool isn’t disclosed and someone gets hurt, the claim could be denied.
Q: What’s an umbrella policy, and should I have one?A: An umbrella policy provides additional liability coverage (usually $1M+). It’s highly recommended if you have a pool, trampoline, or dog.
Would you like help reviewing your current homeowners policy? Contact us today at 908-476-8685 or click the link below to learn more.
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