Essential Pool Regulations Every Pool Owner Must Know
Having a swimming pool can be a fantastic asset for homeowners in condo associations. However, keeping up with pool regulations can be tricky. It’s easy to let things slip until a health inspector visits, and then you have to scramble to ensure everything meets the standards.
### Easy Pool Regulations to Keep Up With
There are three common issues that most public pools face:
1. **Poor maintenance or inadequate equipment**
2. **Lack of personnel**
3. **Failure to meet water quality standards**
If a health inspector finds any of these problems, they can shut down the pool until the issues are fixed. While property management companies in New Jersey usually know these rules, many associations might not.
### Proper Maintenance of Equipment
You need to ensure the pool area is enclosed with a proper fence. Pools deeper than two feet require ladders, which must be in good condition to prevent accidents. The pool itself should be well-maintained without any peeling paint or visible damage. Water slides should also be kept in top shape to avoid injuries.
### Required Personnel
Most public swimming areas require a lifeguard on duty whenever the pool is open. There are exceptions, like pools in retirement communities. It’s crucial to check with the relevant authorities to understand the specific requirements for your pool.
### Water Quality
You must test the water at least once a week to maintain the correct chemical balance for safety. If the chemicals are too weak, bacteria and other health risks can develop. If they are too strong, they can make swimming uncomfortable and damage the pool equipment.
Because everything that contacts the pool can alter its chemical balance, pool owners spend a lot of time tweaking the levels. This is one reason many associations hire property management companies with full-time employees dedicated to managing the pool, ensuring it always meets inspection standards.
### Be Aware of Liability Issues
Homeowners and condo associations not only need to follow pool regulations but also have to consider liability issues. Lawsuits are common with crowded pools, and managing a pool can be more work than the association desires.
Even if your pool complies with all regulations, you can still be liable for incidents in the pool area. If someone gets hurt, you must prove you weren’t at fault. Many associations don’t have the staff to handle these potential issues.
You also need to keep lifeguards up to date on their certifications, which can be challenging since it’s often a seasonal job requiring new hires each year. The same applies to the maintenance staff, who need to be aware of any new regulations.
Managing a pool yourself can be tough and stressful. While it’s doable, it’s often easier to hire a company that understands the regulations. This way, you can focus on managing other aspects of your association.
