Property with pool - special considerations

[Matt Huber]

Hey all,

I'm a newcomer to the discussion here; so far this forum looks like a fantastic resource. We are planning to rent our SFR as we move up to something bigger for our growing family. Our property has a pool, and the perceived liability issues surrounding that fact alone are causing me a great deal of stress. I'm hoping to benefit from the wisdom of the crowd.

As far as safety/liability is concerned, the pool doesn't have a "safety fence" around it. The backyard is fully enclosed with no outside access, except for a gate that can be locked. However, our house was built in the 1980's, and I suppose that the code concerning pools and fences is different now than it was then. Is anybody knowledgeable about the specific requirements in CA (Sacramento County)? Does renting my house out automatically subject the property to any newer rules requiring a safety fence?

Many thanks in advance.

[Justin Cecil]

Hi Matt,

I'm a local realtor here in Sacramento and my first rental property was a SFR with a pool as well, I understand your concern.

There a few things I would suggest for you.

First, you will want to talk to your insurance agent. Homeowners insurance is different when it is a rental. In addition, you can ask your insurance agent what type and how much insurance you need your tenant to provide.

Secondly, the code requires doors leading to the pool area to be self closing. You can get self closing henges from the hardware store. They aren’t that difficult to install. Doors from the house to the pool area need some sort of audible chime/alert notification when the door opens and closes.

Lastly and just personally, if you have a diving board, I would remove it.

Good luck, let me know if you need a realtor.