Real Lawsuits: From Dog Bites to Pool Pop-Ups

If you think big lawsuits only happen to “other guys,” let me tell you—they don’t. I’ve seen claims from things as small as a pole through a garage door to as massive as a Florida pool pop-up that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.

One case that sticks with me was a dog bite. A tech left a gate open, the customer’s dog got out, and it attacked someone walking their own dog. That one mistake turned into a major liability claim. Another time, a pool literally popped out of the ground after heavy rains in Florida. That was a $350,000+ claim once you factored in removing the shell, rebuilding decking, and replacing landscaping.

Here’s the reality: even if you didn’t cause the damage, lawyers will bring everyone with a policy into the lawsuit. Pool guy, gardener, management company—you name it. That’s why I always recommend having not just a solid general liability policy, but also an umbrella for extra coverage. It’s surprisingly affordable, and it gives you peace of mind when you’re working on high-value homes.

There are also little things you can do every day. Snap photos of gates closed, check for pets before leaving, secure your poles before backing up the truck, and never drain a pool without the homeowner present. These habits don’t just prevent accidents—they give you evidence if you ever end up in court.

I’ve learned the hard way that lawsuits are more about stress than money. Even if you’re covered, defending yourself takes time and energy you don’t want to spend. Protect yourself up front, and you’ll sleep a lot better at night.