If you'd like to build a treehouse in your backyard, unfortunately, it isn't always as easy as just collecting the materials and building it on your own. Before building a treehouse, it's best to consider the three insurance-related questions below.

1. What Is Covered by Your Current Home Insurance Policy?

To get a full understanding of what structures within your yard are covered under your home insurance policy, it's a good idea to consult with your insurance agent directly.

As each situation is different, it's best to get your policy information directly from your insurance agent. Speaking with your insurance agent directly will also allow you to ask specific questions so that you can ensure that all policy guidelines are followed and that, if anything were to happen, you'd be covered.

2. Does the Treehouse Follow the Specific Requirements Outlined?

While some home insurance policies state that they have "no exclusions" when it comes to the structures in your yard, other policies will require that specific guidelines be followed when the structure (treehouse in this case) is built and may even require safety precautions be taken while the treehouse is in use.

If your policy has specific guidelines, you'll want to be sure to follow them to the letter to ensure that coverage is provided down the road should something happen. For example, your insurance policy may only cover structures that are a certain number of feet above the ground, or they may require you to block off access to the steps or ladder when the treehouse isn't in use. Whatever your insurance policy requires, it's always smart to know the requirements before you begin planning the treehouse.

3. What Can You Do to Decrease Your Risk?

Even if your policy doesn't have specific safety requirements when it comes to building and owning a treehouse, there may be some steps you can take to decrease risk of injury and cut down on insurance claims.

For example, your insurer may not require it, but have the tree inspected prior to building to ensure it's strong and healthy enough to support a treehouse. This can keep the treehouse (and your family and friends) safe. Or, perhaps you decide to build your treehouse in a gated area to prevent unsupervised climbing. There are a number of things you can do to decrease your risks, but if you're unsure of what steps to take, talk with your insurance agent.

To learn more about what structures your current home insurance policy will cover, consult with your insurance agent today. For home insurance, contact a company such as G William Collier Agency.