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What are the pro's & con's of having a built-in swimming pool on a rental property?

We are considering purchasing a duplex in Washington State. It all looks good, both units already rented, great location. Only thing we're unsure of is that there is a large built-in pool in the back yard. I think it is a great feature, very desirable for renters. My wife, though, thinks it would turn renters off because of the potential danger. She also thinks it is a huge liability, both financially and legally (if someone bangs their head diving, or a child falls in and drowns, etc.). And we have no idea how much cost it will add to the maintenance of the property.

If you could give us your thoughts and/or experience with this situation, it would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!!

6 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    It would be a deal breaker to me. The maintenance will be high, and you will have to hire someone to maintain it. Renters will not know how and you will not want the repair bill if it is neglected.

    The other problem is your homeowners insurance, it will easily triple with a non-owner occupied pool. You are completely liable for the tenants, their guests, anyone who hops the fence to swim, etc.

    There really is no way a landlord should do this unless they are living in one of the units.

  • 1 decade ago

    Check into how much your insurance costs will go up. And make sure you have enough coverage in case of a severe accident.

    Also factor in the costs of maintaining the pool with a service as renters will not do this properly. Include water costs. (Which might mean you are subjected to a commercial meter if you don't pick up all water costs.)

    A pool will attract a different type of renter. Likely young families or singles who like to party. Your wife has the negative down. You have to decide if you can overcome that with higher rent.

  • Anonymous
    5 years ago

    Well.. aside from being silly for telling the girls you're doing a swimming pool, you'd still have to get planning permission if you are doing a patio - if it is restrictive in sight of the neighbours or anyone in front or behind your home where the patio is going. In terms of the nasty neighbours, the best thing to do is to invite them over once its finished for a Pool party. Then when they realise its a Patio, you may well find an apology coming your way. Dont fall out with your neighbours, no matter how nasty they appear to be.

  • ?
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    You will be purchasing insurance to cover the structure and liability protection so I would not be too concerned about injuries etc It will cost you between $75-100 per month for someone to take care of the pool including the chemicals. You may also have to pay for a gardener if the units have lawns and/or shrubs. If you need more exact info you could ask your realtor to request copies of the maintainance records Call your Insurance agent and have him/her give you a quote.

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  • ?
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    For a primary residence it is great. for a rental it is horrible. Liability issues, maintenance and repairs are expensive. If your intention for purchase is to be a landlord then find something else.

  • ?
    Lv 7
    1 decade ago

    Pro - can charge more

    Con - Insurance would grow WAY up.

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