The legal responsibility of owners of investment properties with swimming pools is still an area of law left open for interpretation and dispute, but this is an area where good Property Managers can stand out from the crowd and make a real difference to property owners and tenants alike.
According to Mr Chris Fitzmaurice, Swimart’s National Manager, while landlords may have certain obligations, many Property managers are now taking the lead and engaging the services of professional pool service companies to look after the swimming pools on a regular basis.
“Landlords typically have to keep the swimming pool, pool fencing, pool gate and pool lock in good repair and in compliance with all applicable building and pool fencing legislation, regulations, by-laws and standards. It is usually up to the tenants to keep the swimming pool, filter and spa equipment (if any) clean and at the correct chemical levels”, Mr. Fitzmaurice said. What happens in reality is that both parties often neglect their obligations, resulting in discontent with the potential for unnecessary disputes.
“Our experience tells us that when Property Managers engage the services of a special pool service company, not only do they keep landlords and tenants happy, they are also taking proactive steps to maintain the value of the property.”
Mr Fitzmaurice said that maintaining the swimming pools of tenanted properties on behalf of the Property Manager is an important part of their business.
“Our stores have direct contact with the Property Manager and provide detailed reports of the condition of the swimming pool at the time of each service,’ he said.
