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Home » IDEA Answers » In-Home fitness business and homeowners insurance?
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Question asked by Lori Marriott 169 days ago

In-Home fitness business and homeowners insurance?

BusinessHome TrainingInsurance

Thinking about seeing a few clients in my home gym. I have contacted many insurance companies and they will not allow an in-home fitness business on their homeowners policies. I asked another local trainer I know and she does not have her business on her insurance. This is not a chance I want to take.

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Answered by LaRue Cook 169 days ago
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I agree with all that Stephen and Karin say here. I also have a studio in my home. Between incorporating (actually I have an LLC), tightly written "waiver forms," liability insurance coverage (both for your studio and for you), and good practices, you should be covered. I would NEVER go uncovered in this litigious society. Also, I think it's good business to talk to an insurance agent that you trust, and let them know your plans, and lastly speak with an experienced business attorney (it's worth the 1-hour consultation fee).

I hope this helps.

LaRue, CSCS
www.lecfitness.com
lecfitness@yahoo.com
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Answered by Stephen Landrum 169 days ago
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I have seperate studio insurance and claim my studio as an office. Also incorporated for extra protection.
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Answered by Karin Singleton 169 days ago
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We also have incorporated and have our studio insured through the Fitness & Wellness Insurance Agency. It is to be noted that the premium is higher than it is for a personal trainer, operating at a club or at client's homes.
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Answered by Lori Marriott 169 days ago
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Thanks Steve and Karin - I have my liability insurance as a trainer through Fitness and Wellness Insurance, but it is my homeowners insurance that said they will drop us from our policy if we start an in-home fitness business. Upon finding this out, we have contacted at least 8 other insurance companies who have said the same thing - they will not give us a homeowners policy with an in-home fitness business. My business is a licensed LLC.
3 Comments
Whoa.
Comment by Karin Singleton 169 days ago
It sounds like it's time to take out a loan and "expand the backyard"...? I would be suspicious of 8 other insurance companies saying the same thing in these regards. I can understand an "in-home" setting, but there shouldn't be an issue if there is a separate building transformed into a "studio." If you're serious about what you do, I would imagine it's worth the investment if it's possible.
Comment by Marlan Eller 167 days ago
Another concern is whether or not the City in which you reside allows an in home fitness business, I know mine doesn't.

What is the difference of going to their homes vs. them coming to yours? Does their insurance cover you?
Comment by Susan D'Alonzo 160 days ago
 
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Answered by David Hannan 61 days ago
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Lori,
Susan's comment needs to be addressed- be sure you can have an in-home business. Some cities restrict it due to traffic flow in neighborhoods.
I am in similar situation as you. i have an in-home studio and average 25-30 appointments weekly. Due to the increased risk/exposure, my homeowners insurance cancelled my policy. My insurance agent indicated the cancellation was due to the increase in "foot traffic" i.e. more people at my house than would typically occur at a residence. The fact that it is a personal training studio is irrelevant. My business liability insurance covers that aspect.
Luckily my agent was able to locate an insurance company willing to underwrite a policy so I do have homeowners insurance. My agent located the company through an general agent, Burns & Wilcox LTD.
Bottom line- do not risk training clients in your home without the proper insurance. Your business
liability insurance covers only what occurs during training. Your homeowners insurance covers what can happen when your client(s) are on your property. . If a client slips and falls on the steps, it is NOT related to his/her training, therefore your homeowners insurance would cover the costs for any claims, if,and only if you have coverage for an in-home business. If you do not have the proper coverage, you're putting yourself and your assets in financial risk.
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