Why Inland Marine Insurance Is Crucial for Texas Pool Builders

Protect your tools and materials in transit. Inland marine insurance is essential for Texas pool builders on the move.

Why Inland Marine Insurance Is Crucial for Texas Pool Builders

If you’re a pool builder in Texas, you already know the job is more than just digging holes and pouring concrete. You’re managing high-value tools, traveling between job sites, and relying on timely delivery of materials. And in a state like Texas, where weather and theft risks are real, your insurance coverage needs to go beyond the basics.

That’s where inland marine insurance comes in.

What Is Inland Marine Insurance?

Despite the name, it has nothing to do with oceans or boats. Inland marine insurance covers tools, equipment, and materials while they’re being transported or temporarily stored away from your main business location.

For pool builders, that often includes:

• Excavators and specialty tools
• Pumps, compressors, and power equipment
• Tile, decking, and pool lining materials
• Trailers used for transporting supplies

If these items are stolen from a job site or damaged while in transit, standard commercial property insurance typically won’t cover the loss. Inland marine fills that gap.

Why Texas Pool Builders Need It

Texas pool builders face unique risks:

1. Constant Travel Between Job Sites

You’re moving from site to site, hauling tools and materials across counties. This mobility increases exposure to theft, accidents, and damage in transit.

2. Expensive Tools at Risk

Specialty pool-building equipment doesn’t come cheap. If a power trowel or tile saw gets stolen from the back of your truck, replacing it out-of-pocket could be a serious financial hit.

3. Unsecured Job Sites

Many job sites aren’t secure overnight, making equipment stored on-site vulnerable to theft or vandalism. Inland marine covers items even when they’re not at your primary location.

4. Extreme Texas Weather

Flash floods, hail, and high winds can damage materials and gear stored on a site or in a trailer. Inland marine insurance can help cover weather-related losses.

Real-World Example

A Texas pool builder was delivering several pallets of high-end tile to a job site in Dallas. En route, the trailer jackknifed during a sudden storm. The tiles shattered, and the delivery truck was damaged. While the commercial auto policy covered the vehicle, only inland marine insurance reimbursed the cost of the ruined materials.

What Inland Marine Insurance Typically Covers

Coverage can be tailored to your business, but most inland marine policies for pool contractors cover:

• Tools and equipment in transit
• Materials on job sites
• Temporary storage locations
• Rented or leased equipment
• Property of others in your care

Make sure your policy covers replacement cost, not just actual cash value.

What It Doesn’t Cover

While inland marine is powerful, it doesn’t cover everything. Exclusions may include:

• Normal wear and tear
• Employee theft (covered by crime insurance)
• Vehicles (covered under commercial auto)
• Damage due to poor maintenance

It’s best to work with a knowledgeable agent to ensure there are no coverage gaps.

How Much Does It Cost?

Inland marine insurance is generally affordable, especially compared to the cost of replacing stolen or damaged equipment. Premiums vary based on:

• Value of insured property
• Your location and travel radius
• Claims history
• Deductible and coverage limits

A typical Texas pool builder might pay a few hundred dollars annually to cover tens of thousands of dollars in tools and materials.

Final Thoughts

You invest a lot in your tools, time, and reputation. Inland marine insurance helps you protect that investment every time you hit the road or leave gear on-site.

Need guidance? Contact McKnight Insurance to speak with a local agent who understands the unique risks Texas pool builders face. We’ll help you build a policy that keeps your business afloat.