Orlando Harmon
USAA provides premium home insurance to military service members, veterans, and military family members, and is the No. 1 company in US News' rating of the best homeowners insurance companies. USAA's homeowners insurance covers pools, and includes protection against various hazards, such as theft, vandalism, fire, wind, power surges, freezing, ice damage, and vehicle crashes. However, USAA's insurance does not cover damage from earthquakes, floods, or water backups, and some policies won't cover a pool that is left empty. The cost of premiums tends to be higher than average due to factors such as the location of the home, the risk of natural hazards in the area, and the homeowner's credit score.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who is eligible for USAA homeowners insurance? | Military service members, veterans, and military family members |
| What does the insurance cover? | Damage to the dwelling and other private structures, personal property, liability, loss of use, and replacement cost. |
| What is not covered? | Damage caused by water or sewage backup, earthquakes, floods, settling, cracking, shrinking, bulging or expansion of pavements, patios, foundations, walls, floors, roofs or ceilings, and normal wear and tear. |
| How much does it cost? | $193.44 per month for $300,000 of dwelling coverage, which is below the national average. The average annual cost can range from $1000 to $2000, but this depends on factors such as location and value of the home, coverage limits, and the homeowner's credit score. |
| What affects the cost? | Location-specific risk factors, such as the risk of natural disasters, crime rates, and credit score. |
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What You'll Learn
USAA's standard dwelling coverage includes pools
Dwelling coverage from USAA also includes many detached structures, such as detached garages or fencing, which some companies require additional coverage for. Pools are typically considered ""other structures"" and are covered against physical damage, such as a tree falling and damaging the pool during a storm.
USAA's dwelling coverage also includes personal liability coverage, which protects homeowners against injury claims that arise from the use of the pool. This is particularly important as pools are considered ""attractive nuisances", as they can be enjoyable but also potentially dangerous and lead to expensive claims.
While USAA's standard dwelling coverage includes pools, it is important to note that certain damages may not be covered, such as normal wear and tear, water damage events, or rot caused by bacteria, mold, or mildew. Additionally, USAA's coverage may not extend to pools that are left empty or not properly maintained.
USAA provides premium home insurance to military service members, veterans, and their families, and is known for its comprehensive coverage options and superior customer service. The cost of premiums can vary depending on factors such as the location of the home, the risk of natural hazards in the area, and the homeowner's credit score.
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Pools increase insurance premiums
Pools are considered an "attractive nuisance" by insurance companies. This means that they are a feature that might attract and endanger a child. As a result, homeowners with pools are liable for any incidents that occur, regardless of whether the person using the pool had permission to do so. This is why pools increase insurance premiums.
Homeowners insurance policies typically include at least $100,000 of liability protection, but some experts recommend increasing coverage to $500,000 when installing a swimming pool. This increase in coverage will result in higher annual premiums, as the insurance company is assuming a greater risk. In states where swimming pools are uncommon, this increase might add $50 to $75 to a homeowner's insurance annual premium. However, in areas where pools are standard, such as Houston, the increase in premium costs might be less.
In addition to increasing liability coverage, homeowners with pools may also want to consider purchasing an umbrella insurance policy. This type of policy provides much higher liability coverage at an affordable price. While this is not technically an increase in the homeowner's insurance premium, it is an additional cost that may be necessary when installing a pool.
It is important to note that the impact of a pool on insurance premiums will depend on the specific terms of the policy. Some policies may already include coverage for pools, especially in regions where pools are common. Homeowners should consult with their insurance agent to understand their current policy and make any necessary adjustments. Additionally, incorporating appropriate safety measures, such as a pool safety cover, can help minimize the impact of a pool on insurance premiums.
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Pool damage coverage
USAA home insurance protects against various covered perils, also known as hazards, including theft, vandalism, fire, wind, power surges, freezing, ice damage, and vehicle crashes. USAA includes several types of insurance coverage within its standard home insurance policies. Dwelling coverage from USAA protects the structure of a home and other attached structures, like a covered porch. Some companies require homeowners to add additional coverage for detached structures, but USAA includes many of these structures – even pools – under its standard dwelling coverage.
If your pool is temporarily installed or otherwise portable, it will likely be covered by your personal property coverage instead. Most permanently installed above-ground pools and in-ground pools are considered “other structures”. This means that a pool will be covered against the same perils as a structure such as an unattached shed. Pool damage can occur in many ways. For example, if a storm causes a tree to fall and damage your pool, that damage is likely to be covered. However, your insurance provider will not cover damages that arise due to normal wear and tear.
USAA does not cover damage caused by earthquakes, floods, or water backups, though you can obtain supplemental coverage for all of these perils. Your standard policy through USAA does not cover damage caused by water or sewage backing up through outside plumbing. This add-on will cover any damage and overflow from a sump pump. USAA also allows guns, silverware, artwork, furs, and musical instruments to be covered under this type of insurance. However, certain damages or loss of value aren’t covered, such as typical depreciation, some water damage events, and rot caused by bacteria, mold, or mildew.
Swimming pools raise your home insurance premiums because they have the potential to be dangerous. Minimizing your risk can help you prevent unnecessary injury or insurance claims, which can ultimately keep your insurance premiums lower.
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Liability coverage
USAA's homeowners insurance provides liability coverage for swimming pools, protecting homeowners financially if an injury occurs on their property or if they cause injury or property damage elsewhere. This coverage is essential for pool owners, as swimming pools are considered ""attractive nuisances," increasing the potential for accidents and subsequent claims.
The liability coverage provided by USAA for pools falls under "Coverage B," which covers physical damage and liability for occurrences related to the pool. This coverage applies to most situations, excluding business use. It is important to note that USAA considers pools "other structures," meaning they are covered against the same perils as unattached sheds. For example, if a storm causes a tree to fall and damage the pool, this damage is typically covered.
USAA's liability coverage for pools also includes protection against vehicle crashes. However, it is important to note that normal issues or wear and tear are generally not covered. Additionally, freezing water in pipes is specifically excluded from coverage, as stated by some USAA policyholders.
To ensure adequate protection, pool owners should consider increasing their liability coverage limits. The Insurance Information Institute recommends levels between $300,000 and $500,000, with higher levels suggested for high-value homes or significant assets. Umbrella insurance can be purchased to increase these limits, providing additional protection against liability claims.
The cost of homeowners insurance with USAA, including liability coverage for a pool, varies depending on factors such as the location and value of the home, coverage limits, and the homeowner's credit score. On average, the annual cost of USAA homeowners insurance ranges from $1,000 to $2,000, with higher premiums in regions prone to natural disasters or with higher property values.
While USAA's homeowners insurance provides liability coverage for pools, it is important to carefully review the policy documents to understand any exclusions or special requirements. Additionally, maintaining the pool and its surrounding area is essential to prevent normal wear and tear, which is typically not covered by insurance.
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$48.69
$48.98 $68.99
USAA's high standards for comprehensive coverage
USAA homeowners insurance is a prominent provider in the insurance industry, known for its high standards for comprehensive coverage, superior customer service, and consideration of location-specific risk factors. The company offers protection for homes against various risks, including natural disasters, theft, and other damages.
USAA's comprehensive coverage options include dwelling coverage, which protects the structure of the home and other attached structures, such as a covered porch or a pool. They also offer personal property coverage, which insures personal belongings like furniture, electronics, and appliances in the event of a covered loss. Additionally, USAA provides personal liability coverage, protecting homeowners financially if an injury occurs on their property or if they cause damage on someone else's property.
USAA also offers valuable personal property insurance, which covers high-value items like jewelry, watches, cameras, musical instruments, and guns. This type of insurance includes replacement cost coverage, meaning depreciation is not factored into claims evaluations.
The cost of USAA's homeowners insurance tends to be higher than average due to its comprehensive coverage, superior customer service, and location-specific risk assessment. The location of the home, the risk of natural hazards in the area, and the homeowner's credit score all contribute to higher premiums. Despite the higher cost, USAA maintains a robust reputation for customer satisfaction and is a favored choice for homeowners seeking extensive and reliable coverage.
In summary, USAA's high standards for comprehensive coverage include a wide range of protection options, superior customer service, and consideration of location-specific risks. These factors contribute to higher premiums but also ensure that homeowners are well-protected and supported in the event of a loss or claim.
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Frequently asked questions
USAA homeowners insurance covers pools under its standard dwelling coverage. Permanently installed above-ground and in-ground pools are considered "other structures" and are covered against the same perils as an unattached shed.
USAA homeowners insurance covers the pool structure against physical damage caused by perils such as storms, fires, wind, power surges, freezing, ice damage, and vehicle crashes. It also provides liability coverage for injury claims arising from the use of the pool.
Yes, USAA's pool coverage has some exclusions and limitations. Normal wear and tear, certain water damage events, and rot caused by bacteria, mold, or mildew are typically not covered. Additionally, USAA's standard policy does not cover damage caused by water or sewage backing up through outside plumbing.
Having a swimming pool will likely increase your USAA homeowners insurance premiums. Pools are considered "attractive nuisances" as they can be enjoyable but also potentially dangerous, leading to expensive claims. The increase in premiums can vary depending on factors such as the location and value of the home.
To ensure adequate coverage for your pool, consider increasing your liability protection to levels between $300,000 and $500,000, especially if you have a high-value home or other significant assets. You can also purchase an umbrella policy to increase your liability coverage limits. Additionally, inform your insurer about any plans to install a pool, as they can help determine the appropriate coverage level.
