Triple-A says homeowners with pools should add more insurance

PHOENIX — “Watch your kids around water” and “Make sure your pool has a fence and with a working, locking gate that’s working” are just some of the tips that Arizonans are constantly reminded of during these hot summer months.

But you also may want to take a look at your homeowner’s insurance policy to make sure that someone’s accident around your pool doesn’t leave your bank account high and dry.

“Ask your insurance agent regarding limits of liability on your homeowners insurance,” said John Candaso, an insurance agent for Triple-A Arizona. “We do encourage you to increase your liability limits from $300,000 up to $1 million.”

Candaso said some things near or attached to your pool may cause you problems with your insurance company.

“If you have a diving board or a slide, insurance companies will charge more,” he said. “They kind of frown upon pools that have those. A lot of insurance companies won’t even cover you if you have a pool or a slide.”

Candaso said that your insurance company may raise your rates 3 to 5 percent if you install a pool.