As the owner of single-family rental homes, it’s fairly probable that, down the line, one or several of your tenants will ask to have a trampoline in the yard. Determining whether to permit trampolines on your rental property is a significant decision you’ll need to reflect on.
There are plenty of reasons why a tenant would want a trampoline, which could complicate the decision to decline. However, there are some good reasons not to allow trampolines on your rental property. Prior to reaching a conclusion, it’s wise to evaluate the risks and benefits of allowing your tenants to have a trampoline.
Trampolines Are a Common Backyard Feature
Trampolines are popular in single-family homes. They offer a fun exercise that improves coordination and muscle growth. They help develop skills for sports like gymnastics and diving, providing limitless enjoyment for energetic children. Manufacturers have enhanced protection with nets and in-ground options to reduce falls and injuries.
However, figures demonstrate that these benefits come with serious risks, even with safety precautions. Most landlords and property owners often discourage using trampolines, and there are several justifiable reasons for this.
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, and a few of these might lead to permanent neurological damage.
Trampolines can potentially present a danger. If they aren’t properly maintained or begin to rust, they could become an unattractive sight in no time. Having a trampoline in a grassy yard makes yard maintenance much more difficult, as you’ll have to relocate the trampoline each time the lawn is mowed.
If the trampoline stays in one place too long, it could potentially damage the grass beneath it. At times, tenants don’t have the means to move or get rid of an old or broken trampoline, leaving it decaying in the yard. That heap of junk then turns into your possession once they move out.
Considering the numerous worries, it’s clear why trampolines are frequently regarded as a significant liability. Possessing a lease addendum that assigns complete accountability to the tenant for acquiring a trampoline is beneficial, yet that is no guarantee against future litigation.
Setting Expectations Early to Avoid Future Disputes
Nonetheless, it’s crucial to consider whether your tenant might feel that having a trampoline (or not) is an obstruction. 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 valid cause. That is why it’s wise to make an early decision regarding the inclusion of trampolines on your property and to communicate that information clearly with your tenant in the lease documents. In this manner, you can avoid future hurt feelings and disappointment.
If you seek support in managing tenants or creating lease agreements for things like trampolines, hire a trusted Fate property manager like Real Property Management NorthStar. We’re here to simplify things for you and your tenants. Contact us online or at 469-745-8199 today.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
