Should I get rid of my diving board?

For the visually Impaired: This images centers around a creme colored bolt style diving board that has been set on a concrete style deck with an etched paver look. The diving board is at the edge of a pristine blue pool. There are an assorted variety of flowers bushes and other plants at the edge of the pool deck. In addition, there is a patch of lush green grass at the edge of the deck. 

If you grew up with a pool, chances are your best summer memories involve launching yourself off a fiberglass plank into the deep end. Diving boards are the ultimate symbol of classic backyard fun. But if you own a home with one today, you might be looking at that springboard with a mix of nostalgia and low-level anxiety.

You aren’t alone. Take a look at newly built pools, and you’ll notice something missing: the diving board.

While they are fantastic for keeping teenagers entertained, the modern reality is that the practical drawbacks of keeping a diving board often outweigh the fun. If you’re on the fence about unbolting yours for good, here is the honest truth about why so many homeowners are saying goodbye to the board.

The Insurance Nightmare

Let’s cut right to the chase — this is the number one reason homeowners contact companies to remove their diving boards. Insurance companies do not look at your pool and see a summer oasis; they see an “attractive nuisance.” Meaning you could be facing higher homeowner’s premiums and coverage risks. That’s if your insurance company will even write the diving board in to the policy. Some modern insurance providers flat-out refuse to write a policy for a home with a diving board. Some providers even have clauses excluding diving boards and related injuries from your homeowner’s policy. Removing it can instantly make your home cheaper and easier to insure. In addition, your insurance policy could go down if you opt to remove the diving board.

The “Hosting Haze” of Liability

The brutal truth is that diving boards are dangerous. You might have strict house rules for your own kids, but the real stress kicks in when you host a barbecue. Neighborhood kids or visiting friends might not know the exact depth and slope of your pool.

Slips, falls, and diving accidents happen in the blink of an eye. If someone gets hurt on your property, you are the one held liable. By getting rid of the diving board, you have one less liability to worry about.

Reclaiming Your Patio Oasis

Think about how you and your friends actually use your pool. If you’re like most adults, you spend 90% of your time hanging out in the shallow end floating or playing games.

Diving boards take up a massive footprint on your pool deck. They require a long, unobstructed runway that eats up prime patio real estate. By removing the board, you suddenly free up a decent area for additional entertainment of guests or for that backyard decor you’ve been eyeing. 

The Resale Reality

If you plan to sell your home eventually, a diving board is often viewed as a red flag rather than a perk.

Some young families looking to buy may take one look at a diving board and see a safety hazard for their toddlers. Other former pool owners may just see the impending insurance headaches. While a pool itself can be a great selling feature, a diving board may deter certain buyers. This can be especially difficult if your property is not as desirable as others on the market. 

The Value 

If your insurance company will cover the cost of the diving board for an additional premium, you need to read any exclusions and be sure you understand the exact coverage you have in the event of an accident or injury. If your still unsure of the risk, you can reach out to an attorney for any legal advice or to get a better understanding of your potential liability. If your insurance company will not cover the liability for your diving board, you need to decide if you're willing to shoulder the financial burden and liability of keeping your diving board. Again, if you are unsure, contact an attorney. Knowing your liability and risk will be the key factor in making an informed decision to keep your diving board or call to have it removed for good. 

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal, financial, insurance, or safety advice. Before making any decisions regarding the installation, retention, or removal of a diving board or other pool equipment, please consider the following:

• Consult Your Insurance Provider: Homeowner's insurance policies vary drastically by state and provider. Always speak directly with your insurance agent to understand how a diving board impacts your specific coverage, premiums, and liability limits.

• Consult an Attorney: If you're unsure of the specifics or the amount of liability your diving board can cause, seek licensed legal advice.

• Hire Certified Professionals: If you decide to remove a diving board, do not attempt to do it yourself. Always hire a licensed and insured pool contractor to safely remove the equipment, cap the bolts, and ensure the pool deck meets local safety codes.

• Assume Personal Responsibility: Pool safety is the sole responsibility of the homeowner. The author of this article assumes no liability for any injuries, property damage, or financial losses that may result from the use, removal, or alteration of a diving board or swimming pool based on the contents of this post. Meaning any decision you make is at your own risk and liability.