With the kids being home all the time, you might be running out of ways to entertain them. Or you’re just worried about all the screen time they’re getting. You want them to go outside and play while staying at home, but you’re not sure what they can do. So you’re considering getting them that trampoline or swing set they’ve been begging for.
Here are a few things to consider before you do.
How Much Space Do You Have?
Not only do you need space in your yard for the structure itself, but you also need space around it. A swing set needs enough room for your children to safely swing back and forth without hitting anything. A trampoline needs clearance space, too, preferably on grass.
Will You Add an Enclosure or Fence?
Trampolines are safest with an enclosure, even though they’re not required for installation. Enclosures keep people from falling out and hurting themselves. Fences keep kids from the neighborhood from wandering in and playing where they don’t belong. Remember, you may still be liable for injuries sustained by your trampoline or swing set, even if you didn’t invite them over.
What Weight Limits Do You Need?
Every trampoline and swing set comes with a specific weight limit. Be realistic about who will play on it and factor in future growth. You don’t want a trampoline that only works for a year before your children hit a major growth spurt because it becomes unsafe and you need to replace it. Also, if you have a bunch of teenagers playing on it, you need something sturdier than what six and seven-year-old children need.
What Safety Features are Included?
Yes, trampolines and swing sets are a lot of fun, but they come with inherent risks. Reputable manufacturers know this and should include certain safety features and avoid certain safety risks.
Trampolines safety features:
- Padding over springs
- Durable frames
- No-gap enclosures
- Rust-resistant springs
Swing set safety precautions
- Should not be top heavy
- Avoid vertical climbing features
- Rust-resistant material
Have You Thought About Your Homeowners Insurance?
This is the most important question to consider before you go through the expense and time of buying and installing a trampoline or swing set. The first thing to do is check to make sure your current Charlotte home insurance policy covers trampolines or swing sets. There are three potential options:
No exclusions: Trampolines, swing sets, and other features are allowed. If they’re damaged by a covered peril, you’re covered. If someone is hurt while using it, your liability coverage will pay up to your policy limits.
Trampoline exclusion: Some items, like a trampoline, may be named as an exclusion. It’s not covered by your insurance under any circumstances which means you’re paying out of pocket if you have one and someone gets hurt. In some cases, your insurer may even cancel your coverage if they find out you have one.
Coverage with safety precautions: Some insurers will allow these “attractive nuisances” (dangerous features that children are attracted to) as long as you take specific safety precautions. This can include enclosures, fences, and more.
Thinking about getting a trampoline or swing set for the kids? Want to make sure your home insurance covers it? Contact Charlotte Insurance today. We’ll let you know your options with your current insurer and provide estimates for a new policy if necessary.