Summer brings sunshine, longer days—and plenty of opportunities for tenants to enjoy the outdoors. From poolside gatherings to weekend barbecues and holiday parties, the season is prime time for fun. But if you're a landlord or property manager, these seemingly harmless activities can introduce a number of property management risks.

Here’s how to stay proactive, compliant, and protected during the warm-weather months while keeping tenants happy and safe.

1. Pool Safety Is a Legal and Liability Priority

A pool may boost your property's appeal, but it also comes with significant responsibilities. Drowning and injury risks make pools one of the top summer hazards.

Tips to minimize pool risks:

• Enforce fencing and locked gates as required by local laws

• Post clear safety signage: “No Lifeguard on Duty,” “No Diving,” etc.

• Regularly inspect pool equipment and cleanliness

• Limit pool hours and enforce occupancy limits

• Require renters insurance that includes liability coverage for guests

If your property is a multi-unit rental or vacation home, consider hiring a certified pool service and ensuring emergency equipment is always accessible.

2. Barbecue Guidelines Reduce Fire Hazards

Grilling is a favorite summer pastime, but open flames and propane tanks can turn dangerous fast, especially in close-quarter living like apartment complexes or townhomes.

Property managers should:

• Create written guidelines for where and how tenants can grill

• Ban charcoal or gas grills on balconies (many local fire codes already do)

• Provide designated grilling areas with safe, non-flammable surfaces

• Inspect BBQ stations regularly for cleanliness and functionality

• Educate tenants about extinguishing coals and securing propane tanks

Don’t forget to include these rules in your lease agreement or as an addendum.

3. Control Noise and Crowds at Summer Parties

From Fourth of July celebrations to casual Friday night get-togethers, summer parties can escalate into noise complaints, property damage, or even legal trouble.

Set boundaries by:

• Establishing quiet hours

• Limiting guest occupancy per unit

• Requiring advance notice for large gatherings

• Including fines or penalties in your lease for repeated violations

Encourage tenants to be considerate neighbors—and make it easy for other tenants to report issues discreetly.

4. Update Insurance and Legal Protections

Before summer hits full swing, take time to review your insurance policies and lease agreements.

Make sure to:

• Verify your landlord insurance policy covers common area liabilities

• Require tenants to carry renters insurance

• Consult legal counsel to update lease clauses around summer-related risks

• Add indemnification language for shared amenities like pools or BBQ areas

Clear documentation can protect you in the event of injury, fire, or other liability claims.

5. Communicate Early and Often

The best way to get ahead of summer-related risks? Good communication. Whether you're managing one home or a dozen units, setting expectations early is key.

Send tenants a seasonal newsletter or email with:

• Pool and grill rules

• Party and noise guidelines

• Maintenance tips (e.g., AC filter replacements, pest prevention)

• Emergency contacts

Encourage open dialogue so tenants feel heard while understanding their responsibilities.

Proactive Management Is Profitable Management

Pools, barbecues, and summer parties may boost tenant satisfaction—but they can also invite unwanted risks if left unchecked. With a proactive, preventive approach to property management in summer, landlords can reduce liability, protect their investments, and keep tenants safe and happy all season long.

Matt Witte strives to be the best realtor in North Andover MA.

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