You’ve finally made the decision: This is the year you’re finally getting that swimming pool the kids have been begging for. But once you make the decision, the hard part begins. While inground pools are a good investment, constructing or installing the pool can feel overwhelming. 

The total cost will vary depending on size, design, and type of pool, but there’s more to consider when setting your budget. You’ll also need to pay for insurance, safety concerns, and how to spruce up the area around the pool. 

Update Your Insurance

Many homeowners make the mistake of thinking you need an additional insurance policy for an in-ground pool. In fact, that is not the case because most pools and pool houses fall under your current home insurance. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t be paying an additional expense.

If you have a pool in your backyard, you will likely pay a bit more for your homeowners insurance premium. The average cost of homeowners insurance for a home that includes a backyard pool is $1,226. This premium is higher than that of homes without pools because your likelihood of having an accident that requires you to file a claim rises with a pool and associated outbuildings.

When you add a new pool to your backyard, it’s a good idea to shop around for homeowners insurance to ensure you’re getting the best rate possible so you can save room in your budget for all the other costs associated with a pool, like maintenance.

Address Safety Concerns

Every year there are almost 4,000 fatal unintentional drownings in the U.S. Safety should always be your top priority when installing a new pool. Addressing those safety concerns will minimize the risk of unnecessary injury, saving you from having to file a claim with your homeowners insurance, which can raise your rates even higher.

Here are a few of those safety tips. 

  • Keep a stash of vests, noodles, and flotation devices nearby in case they are needed.
  • Install a gate around the pool that has an auto-lock feature to keep unwanted guests from using the pool without your permission. 
  • Never leave children unattended at the pool.
  • Install and use safety covers for the pool when it isn’t in use.
  • Make sure everyone that lives in the house can swim. If not, sign them up for swimming lessons immediately.
  • Decide on some safety rules as a family. Make a poster of those rules to display near the pool.

Spruce Up the Area Around the Pool

A common mistake people make when installing a new pool is just budgeting for the pool and maintenance costs of the pool itself. You also need to incorporate the pool into your backyard to make it a cohesive space. You can do this with landscaping, pool extras like lighting and fountain features, and structures like lattices for privacy and an outdoor shower where people can rinse off before and after getting in the pool.

The infographic below will help you add your pool oasis the right way.

Splish Splash: Your Guide to a Safe and Fun Poolside This Summer

Author: Jen Baker is a content writer from Columbus, Ohio, who loves learning new things about the world. She’s passionate about literacy, hockey, and her rescue pup. When she’s not writing for work, you can find her working on her novel, relaxing by a pool with a book, or trying new recipes in the kitchen with her husband.