We cover everything Landlords & Tenants need to know about maintenance obligations in relation to properties with pools in QLD (Lame puns included).

If understanding the responsibilities of owning an investment property with a pool or renting a home with a pool sends you off the deep end, you’ll want to read on.

Of course finding a good property manager will ensure you are covered as it is the role of a property manager to advise you of any requirements according to current legislation. Think of them as the florescent floaties that keep you from sinking.

On that note, let’s dive in…

The Benefits of Having A Pool

Listing a home for rent that includes a pool is attractive to renters so there shouldn’t be a shortage of applications. Tenants are also willing to pay a higher price for the luxury, therefore installing a pool also increases the financial value of the home.

The benefits for the tenants are fairly self-explanatory. Have you ever tried to sit in a kid size blow up pool with all your friends? It’s not the most comfortable.

Initial Pool Safety Compliance

Landlords are responsible for insuring that a pool is compliant to current state legislation and has a valid Pool Safety Certificate. This must be completed before entering into a new or renewed lease (before tenants move in) and the pool must be registered with the QBCC Pool Safety Register.

It is crucial to have a Property Manager who has an up to date understanding (…or their head above water) in relation to the above requirements as well as enforcing it. Otherwise it is you the landlord that incurs any repercussions.

Ongoing Pool Maintenance

Whilst it adds value to an investment property a pool can be a large expense. Therefore, it’s imperative that it is being maintained properly.

It is our recommendation that a professional pool company is engaged to educate all tenants on regular pool care at the beginning of the tenancy including how to test and balance water, and how to service pool equipment. The cost can be incorporated into the rent asking price and is an expense that usually can be claimed come tax time.

Typically, it is the tenant’s obligation to look after day to day cleaning, maintaining water levels and balancing water chemicals including the purchase of these.

If the landlord would prefer for all pool maintenance to be performed by a professional and not the tenants themselves, this can be arranged at the landlord’s expense. However, this must be included in your written rental agreement and therefore mutually agreed upon when signing the contract.

When all compliance is met, and the roles and expectations of maintenance are clearly defined between landlord and tenant, renting a property with a pool can go swimmingly!

Aura Rental Management work with licenced and insured pool inspection companies to make sure our clients are always meeting their requirements.