I have a question concerning coverage/liability of our insureds for trampolines that are picked up by the wind and blown into the neighbor's yard causing damage. This is under an H03 homeowners policy. Is a trampoline owner required to stake them down to prevent this from happening and if he doesn't would he be liable to the neighbor? Do new trampolines come with instructions to secure them down? If liability is not there then would it be appropriate to pay the neighbor under the VPD (voluntary property damage) up to the $1,000 limit if requested by the insured? Does it depend on how strong the wind is that we can document or does that make a difference?

Utah Subscriber

We cannot make determinations on liability; that is a legal issue. While a reasonable insured should secure the trampoline I don't know of any requirements to do so. The strength of the wind makes no difference. This certainly should be paid under damage to property of others, and underwriting should be notified as many carriers have restrictions against trampolines.