As the owner of single-family rental homes, it is quite likely that, at some time, one or several of your tenants will ask to have a trampoline in the yard. Permitting trampolines on your rental property is yet another choice that you will need to consider, and it is a significant one.
There are numerous reasons why a tenant would want a trampoline, which could persuade you to agree. However, there are also strong reasons not to allow trampolines on your rental property. Prior to reaching a conclusion, it’s crucial to comprehend the risks and benefits of allowing your tenants to have a trampoline.
Trampolines Are a Common Backyard Feature
Trampolines are favored in single-family homes. They provide a fun exercise that improves coordination and muscle growth. They help develop skills for sports like gymnastics and diving, offering endless enjoyment for lively children. Producers have improved security with nets and in-ground options to reduce falls and injuries.
Nonetheless, data indicates that these benefits come with serious risks, even with safety precautions. Most landlords and property owners disallow trampolines, and understandably so.
Why Trampolines Can Become a Liability for Landlords
In the U.S., trampolines lead to approximately 100,000 injuries each year. Most of these injuries involve broken legs and arms, but they can be much more serious. Frequent injuries consist of broken ribs, sternum, spine, and head, some of which could lead to permanent neurological damage.
Trampolines may also pose a risk. If they aren’t properly maintained or begin to corrode, they could swiftly turn into an unattractive sight. Owning a trampoline in a grassy yard makes yard maintenance much more difficult, as the trampoline needs to be relocated every time the lawn is mowed.
If the trampoline stays in one place too long, there’s a strong possibility it will eliminate the grass below. At times, tenants don’t have the means to move or get rid of an old or broken trampoline, allowing it to decay in the garden. That heap of junk then turns into your issue once they move out.
Given the numerous drawbacks, it’s hardly surprising that trampolines are frequently regarded as a significant liability. Although you possess a lease addendum that places complete accountability on the tenant if they decide to acquire a trampoline, that is no guarantee against future litigation.
Setting Expectations Early to Avoid Future Disputes
Nonetheless, it’s important to consider whether your tenant might feel that having a trampoline (or not) is a deal-breaker. Their long-term satisfaction with the rental property is essential to your lasting achievement, so denying any request should be done carefully and for a good reason. For this reason, to avoid future hurt feelings and disappointment, the decision regarding the allowance of trampolines on your property should be determined promptly and conveyed explicitly to your tenant in the lease documents.
If you require assistance managing tenants drafting rental contracts for items such as trampolines, hire a trusted Austin property manager like Real Property Management All Connect, we simplify life for both you and your tenants. Contact us online or at 512-806-0606 today.
Originally Published on July 3, 2020
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