Would You/ Could You Insure a Funhouse?

I know the title seems a little goofy, but if you see the video, you understand why we need to talk about it. Certain home modifications, while seemingly fun or practical, can be viewed as hazards by home insurance companies.

Let’s talk about the specific modifications and the potential concerns they raise for insurance underwriters:

• Foam Pit in Master Bedroom: While it could be a great way to start your day, a foam pit is seen as a significant trip and fall hazard by insurance companies.
• Automatic Lowering System: I can’t be the only one who would love dropping down to my first floor like a superhero. Sadly, insurance underwriters would see an automatic lowering system from an upper floor as a big fat NO.
• Fireman Pole: This one is not only clever, but it finds a way to make laundry fun. Problem is a fireman pole, replacing a laundry chute, is viewed as a dangerous opening where someone could fall and be seriously injured.
• Loft Above Stairs: My wife loved this one. She is a big nester and was already picturing herself surrounded by pillows and blankets everywhere. Here is the issue though; a loft, especially one used by children and their friends, is considered a fall risk from an elevated position.

It is important to remember that insurance underwriters are prone to anxiety and anticipate every potential negative outcome for your safety. If an insurance company were aware of all these modifications, they might cancel your policy. There is such a thing as sharing too much. The key takeaway is to answer insurance questions precisely as asked without offering additional information that could inadvertently raise concerns for the insurance company and take the “fun” out of funhouse.