It might sound a little odd to some people but you need to be very careful when it comes to home insurance and owning a trampoline.  The thing is that in the US, there are about 3 million trampolines which in turn cause all sorts of injuries and a staggering $280 million is spent every year by insurance companies as a result.  So naturally, insurance firms are very wary of insuring anyone with a trampoline on their property.

Roughly 40% of injuries caused by trampolines are in the lower body and there are a number of accidents that can cause paralysis, which of course requires a lifetime of medical assistance.  A trampoline can seem like a fun toy for your kids but all too often it can end in tears.  If you are buying a trampoline then you need to make sure you set up some rules in terms of only allowing x number of people on at one time and also installing a safety net.

In terms of home insurance, you should look at your policy to see if there is a trampoline exclusion clause.  Normally if someone suffers an injury in your home your insurance policy will cover the costs.  However if there is a trampoline exclusion policy then you will not be covered for any injuries.  Many people don't realize this when they buy a trampoline so if you have bought one, please make sure you are covered.

When you contact your home insurance company to inform them that you now have a trampoline they may well ask you to remove it or they will cancel your policy.  So it's well worth finding out ASAP rather than finding out when it's too late.  There is also the issue of people going on your trampoline without permission.  If they were to have an accident they might actually be able to take you to court.  I know that this is very unfair but that's the truth.

So although having a trampoline might be something your kids have been badgering your about for ages, make sure you don't rush out to buy one without thinking of the insurance implications.