1st September 2016

Pool Maintenance

POOL MAINTENANCE

As we head into summer, swimming pool maintenance becomes a priority as Owners and Tenants get ready for the swimming season.

Temperature has an indirect effect on chlorine breakdown as many bacteria species grow better in warmer water, and when bacteria proliferate. Chlorine is used up more quickly in this situation and you would need to add more chlorine to the pool to maintain an adequate chlorine level. Testing water levels is important to get the right balance.

So who is responsible for pool maintenance and buying chemicals?

If the property has a swimming pool, the tenant is responsible (unless the written agreement states otherwise) for routine day-to-day upkeep and maintenance, such as cleaning and maintaining the chemical balance of the water (including buying pool chemicals).

Owners and Property managers need to ensure that the pool is clean and chemically balanced at the start of the tenancy and that the pool and equipment are working and provide the necessary tools and equipment for day-to-day maintenance, such as vacuum, hoses, brushes and scoops. It is the tenant's responsibility to ensure that repairs are reported.

Cale Property Agents recommend that Owners consider a monthly service by a professional Pool Company as they provide a professional pair of eyes on your pool. The tenants can keep the pool clean however a trained technician will pick up on minor faults such as leaking mechanical seals on your pump. Scheduled pool maintenance will give you the peace of mind that the pool is in tip top condition. The pool company will also ensure that before the tenancy begins the tenant is given clear instructions on how to use and care for the pool and the equipment.

As the Landlord, you must ensure that the pool complies with Swimming Pools Act / Pool Safety Standards applicable to your state.

NSW:

NSW Swimming Pools Act 1992

Tenants need to ensure that compliancy is maintained, conduct regular cleaning and maintain water health by testing and balancing the pools chemical levels. All repairs need to be reported in writing to Cale Property Agents. To make this easier we have a form on our website that you can report maintenance issues. Use this link.

Enjoy the swimming season!