Keeping a pool clean, sanitary, and safe to swim in is a never-ending, time-consuming chore for a pool owner. When a pool is neglected, repairs add up. The best solution for landlords is to hire a pool professional to guarantee your private backyard oasis is cared for properly. We’ve created a guide for property owners searching for a reliable pool company.

Swimming pool addendum

Having a pool addendum in a lease agreement will establish guidelines and help manage the expectations of your tenants. Here are some rules you may outline in an addendum to avoid liability and clarify responsibilities. 

• Use at your own risk: Avoid liability issues if there is an accident or the pool is not correctly shocked. 
• Child supervision: Always supervise small children inside the pool or in the proximity of the pool. 
• Pool maintenance responsibility: Clearly state if the tenant is responsible for maintaining the pool and what those responsibilities are. 
• Damages to the pool: If there are any damages, the tenant may be obligated to cover costs or have the funds deducted from their security deposit. 

Swimming pool service offerings

Many pool owners use pool services because it takes a lot of work to maintain or restore it to good condition, especially if the previous tenant neglected maintenance. 

The following services are typically included for keeping the pool water clean: 

• Testing and adjusting chemical and pH levels
• Checking water levels
• Pool shocking (adding chlorine or the appropriate chemicals to the pool)
• Cleaning the pool’s bottom and walls
• Adding algae removal products, if applicable
• Cleaning the pool filter

A professional pool cleaner will have all the pool equipment needed to do the job.

Pool filter, drain, and pump repairs

Most pool owners must replace a pool filter every few years. A pump motor replacement is due every 10 to 15 years, depending on its condition. Your pool pump is a significant energy user in your home. When it’s time for a replacement, consider using a smaller, more efficient pool pump to save energy and cut costs on your electric bill. 

Replace your pool filter when it starts leaking or degrading over the years. To minimize the loss of swimming pool water, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) suggests a DIY leak test or hiring a professional. It’s okay to ask the tenant to manually add water to the pool if the water levels are low. 

Estimates for regular pool maintenance

Many contributing factors affect the cost of pool services. First and foremost, there is the pool’s size, shape, and type. For instance, is it an in-ground, infinity, or above-ground pool? What shocking chemicals and methods are required? The amount of sunlight, extreme weather, travel time, and frequency you need maintenance can hike up the costs. 

Ask the pool person about their experience with your specific type of pool, how they would handle leaks, and if they can provide a written estimate for weekly or monthly visits. The average annual costs for standard pool maintenance tasks can range from $960 to $1,800 annually.

The pool service should provide the following in a quote:

• Maintenance services offered (skimming, vacuuming, chemical balancing, inspection)
• Frequency of services (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, annually)
• Labor costs
• Materials and costs 
• Duration of the maintenance contract

Most pool maintenance professionals should be licensed and insured. While an official training certificate is not required, most pool technicians should have sufficient on-the-job training.

Here is an example of an estimate with sufficient details:

Here is an example of an estimate lacking information: