Trampoline Liability and Insurance: How to Reduce Risk and Stay Protected
Laurie Bauer, CAIB | Business Development Manager, Orbit Insurance Services
Trampolines add excitement and energy to any backyard, but they also come with risks. If a guest or neighbour gets injured while jumping, you could be held responsible for medical bills — or even face legal action. Before the fun takes off, it's important to understand trampoline liability and how the right insurance coverage can help protect you.
Here, we'll explain trampoline liability for homeowners, the types of insurance coverage available, and key safety tips to help keep everyone safe while bouncing.
The reality of trampoline injuries
One minute, kids are laughing and bouncing — the next, a wrong landing leads to an emergency room visit. It happens more often than you’d think. Every year, over 1,200 children in Canada are injured on trampolines. From broken bones to head injuries, these accidents can be severe.
While proper safety measures can reduce the risk of injury, trampoline accidents remain a real concern for homeowners. That's why it's crucial to understand your liability risks and take preventative steps.
Why trampoline liability matters
If someone — whether it’s a friend or a neighbour’s child — gets hurt while using your trampoline, you could be held financially and legally responsible. This can include covering medical bills, legal costs, and potential lawsuit settlements.
Trampolines are often considered an “attractive nuisance” by insurance companies. This means they naturally draw in curious visitors like children who might not fully understand the risks. As a homeowner, you’re expected to take reasonable precautions to prevent unauthorized use and maintain a safe environment — even for guests you didn’t invite.
How insurance coverage works for trampolines
Every insurance policy is different. Some insurers exclude trampoline-related claims outright, while others allow coverage with specific conditions. Here are a few coverage options to keep in mind:
Homeowners insurance
Your standard homeowners policy may or may not include trampoline liability, and some insurers only cover trampoline-related claims if specific safety precautions are in place, such as:
- Installing a protective enclosure net
- Keeping the trampoline in a fenced and locked area
- Using protective padding on springs and frames
Homeowners insurance may also cover damage to your trampoline from vandalism, theft, or weather events — but this varies by policy. Always check with your insurance broker or provider for specifics.
Personal umbrella insurance
A personal umbrella policy provides extra liability protection beyond what your standard homeowners insurance covers. For example, if a trampoline-related injury results in a high-cost lawsuit, an umbrella policy can cover the excess expenses that exceed your home insurance limits.
Additional riders or special policies
Depending on your insurer, you might be eligible to purchase a specialized rider for trampolines. This add-on can supplement your existing homeowners policy or stand alone as a separate coverage.
Before you buy a trampoline, it’s a good idea to speak with an insurance broker. Understanding your options can help you avoid unexpected expenses if an accident occurs on your property.
Practical trampoline safety tips
While insurance helps protect you financially, accident prevention is always the best defence. Follow these safety measures to reduce risks:
1. Install proper safety features.
These key features can reduce the risk of injury:
- Use an enclosure net to prevent falls
- Add protective padding on the springs and frame
- Ensure the trampoline is on level ground and in good condition
2. Implement a “one-jumper-at-a-time” rule.
Around 75% of trampoline injuries occur when more than one person is jumping at once. A strict one-at-a-time rule prevents collisions and roughhousing injuries.
3. Supervise children at all times.
Adult supervision helps kids stay mindful of safe jumping practices. Discourage flips or stunts that increase the likelihood of injury.
4. Inspect for damage regularly.
Check the jumping surface, springs, and enclosure net regularly. Replace worn or broken parts immediately to prevent accidents.
5. Secure your yard to prevent unauthorized use.
A fenced-in yard with a locked gate helps prevent neighbourhood kids from using the trampoline unsupervised — reducing your liability risk.
By following these safety measures, you’re reducing injury risks and demonstrating responsible trampoline ownership in the eyes of insurers.
Don’t let a trampoline accident catch you off guard — Make sure you’re covered
A trampoline can bring joy, laughter, and countless memories. But the risk of injury and liability is real. Ensuring you have the proper insurance protection means one wrong bounce won’t put you in a financially difficult situation.
Here’s how to stay ahead of trampoline risks:
- Review your homeowners insurance policy to see if trampolines are covered.
- Before purchasing a trampoline, talk with a licensed insurance broker to learn more about your coverage options.
- Consider additional coverage to protect against potential liabilities.
If you’re shopping for home insurance or need to update your coverage, Orbit Insurance Services can help. Contact us today for a free, personalized quote and let us guide you to the best insurance options — so you can enjoy your trampoline with peace of mind, knowing that you have the coverage you need.