Lake House Insurance: Coverage Tips for Waterfront Properties
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- 3 hours ago
- 2 min read
Owning a lake house offers stunning views, peaceful retreats, and profitable rental opportunities. But waterfront properties come with unique risks—from flooding and erosion to liability from water-related accidents. Whether you rent your lake house seasonally or year-round, having the right insurance is essential to protect your investment.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in rental property coverage for lake houses and other waterfront homes. This guide outlines key coverage tips every lake house owner should know.
Why Lake Houses Need Specialized Insurance
Standard homeowners' insurance often falls short when it comes to lakefront properties. Risks like flooding, dock damage, and watercraft liability are typically excluded or limited.
If you rent your lake house—whether through Airbnb, Vrbo, or privately—it’s considered a business activity. That means you need rental property insurance tailored to short-term or long-term rentals.
What Lake House Insurance Should Cover
A comprehensive lake house insurance policy should include:
Dwelling Coverage: Protects the structure from fire, storms, vandalism, and water-related damage.
Loss of Rental Income: Reimburses lost income if your lake house becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event.
Flood Insurance: Essential for waterfront homes, as standard policies don’t cover flood damage.
Watercraft Insurance: Covers boats, jet skis, and other recreational vehicles used by guests.
Liability Protection: Covers legal and medical costs if a guest is injured on your property or while using amenities like kayaks or paddleboards.
Dock and Pier Coverage: Protects against damage to waterfront
Tips for Reducing Risk and Insurance Costs
Install Safety Features
Life rings, throw ropes, and “Swim at Your Own Risk” signage
Remove diving boards and inflatables
Provide safety instructions for watercraft use
Conduct Seasonal Inspections
Check for ice damage, erosion, and dock stability
Inspect HVAC and electrical systems before peak seasons
Comply with Local Regulations
Follow zoning laws, shoreline usage rules, and rental permit requirements
Non-compliance can lead to fines and increased liability exposure.
Why Choose Wexford Insurance?
Wexford Insurance offers tailored coverage for:
Lake houses and waterfront homes
Short-term and long-term rentals
Cabins, condos, duplexes, and more
Our policies include property damage, liability protection, and loss of rental income—giving you peace of mind while hosting guests.
Final Thoughts
Lake house ownership is a dream—but it comes with real risks. From flooding to guest injuries, the right insurance policy ensures your property and income are protected. Don’t rely on standard homeowners' coverage alone.
Wexford Insurance is your trusted partner for lake house rental protection. Whether you rent occasionally or operate full-time, we’ll help you stay covered and confident. Contact now!
FAQs
Q1: Does homeowners insurance cover lake house rentals?
No. You need rental property insurance for short-term or long-term rentals.
Q2: Is flood insurance required for lake houses?
It’s highly recommended, especially if your property is near the shoreline.
Q3: Can I insure my dock and watercraft?
Yes. Wexford Insurance offers coverage for docks, boats, jet skis, and more.
