I have opened my backyard swimming pool for the summer. What liabilities should I be aware of?
Dave Jun 05, 2015
I have opened my backyard swimming pool for the summer. What liabilities should I be aware of?
With the warm weather finally here, the dirty backyard pool covers have disappeared and been replaced with inviting blue waters. Unfortunately, those waters can also be a liability. As a property owner you have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to keep your pool safe. You can be held liable for any injuries or deaths that occur as a result of your pool regardless of whether the person accessed your pool with or without your permission. So, even if a neighbourhood child wanders into your backyard without your knowledge and is injured in your pool, you may be liable.
There are precautions you can take to ensure your backyard pool is as safe as possible. If you are entertaining guests in your backyard, ensure that a sober and responsible adult is supervising. You could also hire a lifeguard. Consider installing a gate with an alarm or a safely pool cover for times when you are not in your backyard. A fence around your pool can be effective but must comply with by-laws.
The most important step you can take to protect yourself from liability is to ensure that your insurance company is aware that you have a pool and that you have purchased adequate homeowner’s insurance.