Leaving kayaks, canoes or paddleboards out for guests is one of the best things about a lake or beach rental, and one of the riskier ones. A waiver section for watercraft makes sure each adult has agreed to wear a life jacket and to stay within limits you set.
Copy the terms below into the property-specific section of a full release, such as our free liability waiver template.
How to use this template
- Start with a full release of liability. Simple Waivers includes one, and you can read it on the free liability waiver template page.
- Copy the kayak and paddleboard terms below and edit them to match your property and rules.
- Add them as the property-specific section, then send guests one link or QR code to sign before they arrive.
Kayak and Paddleboard waiver terms (free to copy)
Kayak, Canoe and Paddleboard Terms. I understand that using kayaks, canoes, paddleboards or similar watercraft involves risks including capsizing, drowning, hypothermia, collisions with boats, docks or other objects, changing weather and water conditions, and injury from paddles and equipment. No lifeguard or instructor is provided, and I use this equipment at my own risk. I agree that every person using this equipment will wear a properly fitted, approved life jacket at all times while on the water. I confirm that I and anyone in my group using the equipment can swim and are able to get back onto or into the craft, or to shore, if it tips over. I agree to stay within the area the Organizer describes, to stay off the water in storms, high winds, lightning or darkness, and not to use the equipment while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Children may use the equipment only with a responsible adult supervising, and I accept responsibility for supervising any minors in my group. I will inspect the equipment before each use, will not use anything that is damaged, and will return the equipment to its storage area after use.
This is sample wording to start from, not legal advice and not a guarantee of protection. Edit it to fit your property, and have an attorney licensed where your property is located review it before you rely on it.
What these terms cover
- Water specific risks such as capsizing, cold water, boat traffic and weather.
- A life jacket requirement for every person, every time.
- A swimming ability confirmation.
- Limits on where and when guests may paddle.
- Adult supervision for children and an equipment inspection duty.
Tips before you use it
- Describe your boundaries in plain words, for example "stay inside the cove" or "do not go past the swim buoys," and post a map near the storage rack.
- Keep life jackets in several sizes next to the boats, including youth sizes.
- If your lake has motorboat traffic, add a sentence about staying near shore.
- Check your state and local rules on life jackets for children. They often go further than this template.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a waiver to let rental guests use my kayaks?
That is a decision for you, ideally with your insurer and an attorney. Many hosts use one to document that guests accepted the risks and agreed to wear life jackets. Also check whether your insurance covers guest use of watercraft at all.
Should kids sign a kayak waiver?
A minor cannot sign a binding contract. A parent or guardian signs for them, and the effect of that signature varies by state. See can a parent sign a waiver for a minor.
Does this cover motorboats or jet skis?
No. Powered watercraft have different risks and often different licensing rules. Use the boat waiver template and check your local rules.
More free waiver templates
More on this use case: waivers for boats and lake days and choosing a waiver app for your rental.
Have guests sign it on their phone
Create a waiver in Simple Waivers, tick Property-Specific Terms, paste this text, and share one link or QR code. Every signature is saved as a PDF. Free for 10 waivers a month, no card required.
This template is general information, not legal advice, and is provided as a starting point only. Waiver enforceability depends on the law where your activity takes place, and some states and provinces limit waivers or waivers signed for minors. Edit it to match your property and have a licensed attorney in your area review it before you rely on it. Simple Waivers is a software provider and is not a party to any waiver you collect.