A backyard pool is the ultimate summer sanctuary in Southern Nevada. However, as a landlocked desert, pools can easily transform from an oasis to a massive liability if neglected. In property management, pool care is not just about aesthetics, it is a critical component of asset protection and risk mitigation. This week we will be discussing why we include pool services in rent, the summer dangers of algae and mosquito growth, as well as basic desert pool maintenance tips.
Why We Include Pool Service in the Rent (And Why You Should Too):
Tenant and owner responsibilities are outlined in the lease, allowing every party to have a clear guideline of terms and conditions of renting. At Sin City Real Estate and Management, we believe that pool services should be included in the rent. Pools are a complicated mix of chemicals and pH balances, leaving an uninformed tenant in charge of pool maintenance is a recipe for disaster. The property manager, or owner, being responsible for pool maintenance ensures that there are consistent and professional services.
Mismanaged chemical balances can quickly lead to etched – or rough – plaster, stained surfaces, and corroded equipment. Which can all be costly repairs. Including professional services in the monthly rent protects the owner’s significant financial investment, as well as eliminating the friction of relying on tenants to properly balance or service the system. In short, professional services keeps the property compliant with local standards and ensures the asset is consistently maintained by licensed professionals.
Summer Danger Zone:
There is no denial in saying that summers in Vegas are a danger zone, for many reasons. Las Vegas heat has a significant effect on pools, extreme heat rapidly breaks down chlorine, creating a perfect storm for rapid bacteria and algae growth. The leads to a “green pool” caused by unbalanced, stagnant water. Stagnant water also serves as a prime-time breeding ground for mosquito colonies. Of which they can carry dangerous viruses, like West Nile. A green pool is not just an eyesore; it is a community safety hazard as well as a magnet for city fines and pests.
Basic Desert Pool Maintenance Checklist:
•Combat Evaporation: High summer evaporation requires frequent water level checks. Keep the water halfway up the skimmer mouth to prevent the pump from running dry and burning out.
•Dial In the Filtration: Run the pump filtration system sufficiently during the peak heat of the day to keep water moving and discourage stagnation.
•Skim and Brush Weekly: The notorious Las Vegas wind and dust storm debris must be cleaned out of skimmer baskets immediately to maintain property water circulation.
•Chemical Discipline: Test and shock the pool regularly to outpace the blazing desert sun.
Protecting the Oasis:
Professional oversight is the only way to safeguard a rental property’s pool through a grueling Las Vegas summer. At Sin City Real Estate and Management, we do our absolute best to protect our client’s asset while providing the tenant with a safe and habitable home. Remember to seek professional services, protect your investment, prepare for the dangers of Vegas summers, and always perform basic desert pool maintenance.
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