Having a pool or other detached structures on your property adds value, convenience, and fun to your home—but it also adds exposure to risk. From storm-related damage to guest injuries, homeowners need to know how their insurance responds. Below is a clear breakdown of how Coverage B (Other Structures), pool-related protection, and liability coverage work together so you can feel confident your coastal home is fully protected.

On the Outer Banks, where storms, wind, and seasonal visitors all increase everyday risk, understanding these coverages is especially important. With the right policy and safety measures in place, you can enjoy your pool and outdoor spaces knowing you’re fully prepared.

What Coverage B (Other Structures) Includes

Coverage B—known as “Other Structures”—protects structures on your property that aren’t attached to your main home. This typically includes:

• Detached garages
• Fences and gates
• Pool houses
• Sheds and storage buildings
• Gazebos and pergolas
• Walkways and detached decks

Most policies automatically set Coverage B at a percentage of your dwelling coverage (often around 10%), but homeowners in the Outer Banks may need additional limits due to the higher cost of coastal repairs and the prevalence of larger outdoor spaces.

How Pools Are Covered Under Homeowners Insurance

The way a pool is insured depends on its construction and its permanence:

• In-ground pools are usually covered under Coverage B as a permanent outdoor structure.
• Above-ground pools may fall under Coverage B or Coverage C (Personal Property), depending on whether they are built-in or movable.
• Pool equipment such as pumps, heaters, and filtration systems may be covered if damaged by a covered peril like fire, wind, vandalism, or falling objects.

Wear and tear, lack of maintenance, and mechanical breakdowns are generally not covered. For coastal homeowners, this makes regular inspections and storm preparations essential—especially during hurricane season.

Wind, Hail, and Storm Considerations for Pools and Outdoor Structures

In coastal regions like the Outer Banks, pools and other structures face higher-than-average exposure to wind, hail, and hurricane-related damage. Depending on your policy:

• Wind and hail coverage may protect your pool, pool house, and fencing from storm damage.
• Wind-driven rain may be covered only if wind first creates an opening—an important detail many homeowners overlook.
• Hurricane deductibles may apply to damage from named storms, affecting how much you pay out of pocket.

Because every carrier handles storm risks differently, reviewing these sections of your policy regularly—especially before storm season—can help you avoid surprises later.

Liability Coverage for Pools and Outdoor Areas

Pools are considered an “attractive nuisance,” meaning they present an increased risk of injury—especially for children. As a homeowner, you may be held responsible if someone is injured in or around your pool, whether they are invited guests or trespassers.

Your homeowners policy’s personal liability coverage can help pay for medical bills, legal costs, or damages if you’re found responsible. However, pool ownership increases your exposure, so many homeowners choose to:

• Increase liability limits
• Add a personal umbrella policy for additional protection
• Install required safety features (fences, self-locking gates, alarms, covers)

On the Outer Banks—where vacation rentals are common—pool liability can be even more complex. If you rent your home to guests, you may need additional insurance or a landlord/short-term rental endorsement to make sure you’re fully protected.

Safety Requirements That Affect Insurance Coverage

Insurance carriers often require certain safety measures for homes with pools, including:

• A fence of a specific height around the pool
• Self-latching or self-locking gates
• Working pool alarms
• Pool covers that meet safety standards

Maintaining these features not only protects people on your property but can also prevent coverage issues if a claim arises.

How to Protect Your Pool and Structures During Storm Season

As coastal insurance specialists serving the Outer Banks community, we recommend several steps to reduce risk before a storm:

• Secure or store poolside furniture, umbrellas, and loose items.
• Lower the water level only if recommended by your pool builder.
• Turn off electrical equipment and protect pool pumps from flooding.
• Check for cracks, loose tiles, or maintenance issues between storms.
• Review your policy annually to ensure limits match current replacement costs.

Storm-readiness helps reduce damage and simplifies the claims process if repairs become necessary.

FAQ

Does homeowners insurance cover pool damage from hurricanes?

It depends on your policy. Wind and hail damage is often covered, but flooding from storm surge is not covered under a standard homeowners policy. Flood insurance may be needed for full protection.

Will insurance cover a pool collapse?

Coverage for collapses varies. If the collapse is caused by a covered peril—such as wind or falling objects—your policy may help. Collapses caused by wear and tear or improper maintenance generally aren’t covered.

Do I need extra liability insurance if I own a pool?

Most homeowners increase their liability limits or add an umbrella policy to protect against higher-risk situations involving guests, children, or rental use.

Are pool leaks covered by homeowners insurance?

Leaks from aging equipment or maintenance issues typically aren’t covered. Sudden accidental damage from a covered event may be.

Does insurance cover damage to pool equipment?

Pool pumps, heaters, and filters are usually covered for damage caused by covered perils such as fire, wind, or vandalism. Mechanical failure is not covered.

Need Help Understanding Your Coverage?

At Midgett Insurance Agency, we've been protecting coastal homes and outdoor spaces since 1973. If you’d like help reviewing your pool coverage, increasing liability protection, or preparing for storm season, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.