If you have a pool in your homeowners association, you will have numerous pool regulations to follow. When you look at hiring a manager for your association, you will need to take this into consideration. They will have many duties that revolve around the pool in addition to other aspects of the job. Since it is more than one person can handle, you may need to hire additional people.
Daily Tasks of a Pool Manager
A manager will have many jobs to oversee during the busy spring and summer season. They will be responsible for getting the pool ready for use in accordance with pool regulations. These tasks include:
- Checking for repairs
- Repainting as needed
- Replacing any worn out equipment
- Checking the filtration system
- Buying the chemicals for the water and testing the pool
- Learning about any new regulations
- Obtaining permits and licenses
- Hiring lifeguards and verifying certification
In addition, your pool manager will have to become a certified pool operator if they are not already one. This requires a two-day class followed by an open book exam. It will have to be renewed every two years.
This long list of duties is one reason why many associations hire a New Jersey property management company to do the work for them.
Operational Concerns with Pool Regulations
You will have to keep on top of the pool maintenance all summer long to continue to meet the pool regulations. This means testing the water every week to ensure it maintains the right chemical levels. The pool will need to be cleaned when debris and other items fall in, and it will have to be monitored to make sure everyone is following the rules and that the lifeguards are on duty when they are scheduled.
Pool management becomes a full-time job during the summer for larger complexes. If they have rules in addition to the regulations they must follow, they will have to enforce those. For instance, some complexes may limit the number of guests or the use of food and beverage in the pool area.
Liability is a major concern for associations in regards to the pool. Even when the pool regulations are followed, people can get hurt or other issues can arise. Lawsuits may result from an injury or accident. Even if the complex is not at fault, they will have to deal with the legalities of the situation. Many small complexes are not equipped to manage these issues and choose to outsource the work to a New Jersey property management company.
Even if you do hire a property management company to manage your complex, you should have some expectations of them.
- They should maintain a record of their management activities for you to see.
- They should assist or handle vendor selection and supervise all vendor work.
- They should provide recommendations of any maintenance needed.
- They should alert you to any problems that may require your attention.
A manager or property management company is a partner with the complex to provide a safe swimming area that meets the regulations. If you choose not to hire a manager and outsource instead, make sure to find a quality company that has an established reputation.
Pool regulations are a complex part of community management. Managing a pool takes a great deal of effort and time during the season and many complexes do not want to deal with it. Even if you hire the management from an outside company, it pays to know how these regulations affect your complex.
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Paul Santoriello is the President of Taylor Management Company located in Whippany New Jersey specializing in property management.