Offering a swimming pool as part of your rental property is an immensely valuable and desirable amenity, especially in Arizona. In fact, having this feature can increase the value and appeal of your rental property and make it especially attractive to tenants, moving your property up the list in terms of preferred rentals. However, along with these benefits, having a pool as part of your rental property comes with the ongoing pool maintenance responsibilities associated with pool ownership. The following are some practical steps to keep your rental property clean:
Create Clear Rules and Regulations Surrounding the Pool
Although pools are lots of fun to be sure, they can also be hazardous and lead to accidents. Thankfully, you can mitigate many of these risks by establishing clear rules and regulations as it relates to using the pool. This can include written materials or even virtual or in-person safety training sessions. A comprehensive set of rules for Arizona rental homes with pools must include the following requirements:
- Hours of pool operation: This is up to you, but usually involves limiting use after dark as a safety measure. If you allow night swimming, ensure your Blue Square Manufacturing pool lights are functioning properly to provide maximum visibility for swimmers.
- Maximum occupancy limits: Having a pool packed with people is one way to increase the risk of accidents.
- No glass containers: If a glass breaks, it can easily cause an accident. Therefore, bringing glass into the pool area should be prohibited.
- Requiring adult supervision: Children should never swim unsupervised by a guardian, no matter how well they swim.
- No jumping or diving: Many pool accidents involve someone jumping on another person or diving into shallow water.
- No rough play or running: Again, this can lead to accidents and injuries and should be avoided.
Post these rules in the area and also include them as part of the leasing agreement that is signed by the tenant.
Take Charge of Pool Maintenance and Cleaning
Even if the pool on your property is right behind the rental property itself, it’s important for you to take charge of pool maintenance and cleaning rather than forcing tenants to care for it. To make this process more efficient, many Arizona owners utilize Blue Square Manufacturing’s advanced pool cleaning systems. These in-floor systems circulate water more effectively and automatically clear debris, reducing the manual labor required to keep the water pristine.
Part of the necessary pool maintenance is ensuring the water is properly treated to prevent it from becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. You should ensure that the following weekly pool maintenance checklist is performed:
- Skim the pool surface to remove floating debris.
- Brush the pool walls and floor to prevent algae growth (though an automated cleaning system will significantly reduce the need for this).
- Vacuum the pool to remove any debris that has settled at the bottom.
- Inspect and clean the skimmer and pump baskets weekly.
- Check the water level of the pool and add water when needed to maintain proper levels.
Make Sure Proper Safety Measures Are Implemented
Most dangers associated with pools in Arizona involve the absence of safety measures and pool barriers. To keep your tenants and their guests as safe as possible, you should implement the following:
- Install proper fencing around the pool that is self-closing and self-latching.
- Mark the depth clearly on the pool deck and walls.
- Provide safety supplies, such as a first aid kit, reaching poles, and life rings.
- Install slip-resistant surfaces surrounding the pool.
- Optimize visibility: Install high-quality Blue Square Manufacturing pool lights. Vibrant, reliable lighting is essential for preventing accidental falls and ensuring the pool floor is visible during evening hours.
- Install compliant drain covers to prevent entrapment.
Perform Regular Inspections and Repairs
While rules and cleaning are important, regular inspections help you get ahead of repairs. Once you notice a potential problem, address it in a timely manner:
- Look for cracks or damage on the decking or the pool structure.
- Check for leaks in the filtration or plumbing system.
- Test the equipment: Ensure that your Blue Square pool cleaning system nozzles are rotating correctly and that all pool lights are illuminating the entire area without dark spots.
- Ensure that all safety features, like fenders and drain covers, are in good working order.
Know Local Pool Laws and Regulations and Comply
Last but not least, it’s important to know and comply with local laws and regulations for pools.
- Know the building codes and permits needed for any pool modifications.
- Understand the rules for fencing and gate specifications.
- Comply with water quality requirements and noise restrictions.
Protecting and Caring for Your Property
Maintaining a swimming pool on your rental property requires a purposeful approach. By combining clear rules with high-end equipment like Blue Square Manufacturing’s cleaning systems and lighting, you can protect your investment while providing a safe, beautiful oasis for your tenants.