As summer winds down, many community pools will soon be closing for the season. This period is crucial for HOA boards – and requires a lot more than simply locking the gates.
Closing your pool properly ensures it remains in good condition throughout the off-season and is ready for a smooth reopening when warm weather returns. It also helps prevent costly repairs and safety issues.
Here are five best practices to help your HOA board properly close your community pool when summer ends.
1. Schedule and Communicate the Closure Date Early
Inform homeowners of the upcoming closure in advance, including the exact closing date and any restrictions on pool access at that time. Transparency in communication helps manage expectations and prevents any last-minute surprises.
Use multiple communication channels, such as emails, newsletters, social media, and community bulletin boards, to ensure all residents are informed. Clear communication helps manage expectations and minimizes inconvenience for residents who want to enjoy the pool before it closes.
2. Coordinate with Professional Service Providers
Closing a pool involves more than preventing residents from jumping in. HOA boards should coordinate with professional service providers, such as pool maintenance companies, to help keep the pool in good condition while it’s closed. This includes:
- Chemical Balancing: This helps prevent algae growth and damage to the pool’s surface during the off-season.
- Cleaning and Draining: Thoroughly clean the pool and, if necessary, partially drain the water to the appropriate level, as recommended by your service provider.
- Cover Installation:A high-quality pool cover helps protect the water from debris, prevent accidents, and reduce the need for extensive cleaning before next season’s reopening.
Be sure to review contracts with service providers to double-check that all necessary services are covered and correctly scheduled.
And before the closing date, have your pool maintenance provider thoroughly inspect the entire pool area to check for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the deck, loose tiles, or malfunctioning equipment. Address any repairs that need immediate attention to prevent further deterioration during the winter.
3. Plan for Off-Season Maintenance
Regular maintenance is still necessary to make sure the pool remains in good condition during closure. Work with your maintenance provider to establish a schedule for off-season inspections, including checking the pool cover, monitoring water levels, and ensuring equipment like pumps and filters remain in good working order.
Budget for these maintenance activities as part of your overall community maintenance plan. Proper off-season care reduces the risk of costly repairs and ensures the pool is ready to open smoothly when the next season arrives.
4. Review and Update Pool Policies
The off-season is an excellent time for HOA boards to review and update pool-related policies. Take this opportunity to assess what worked well while the pool was open, and identify any areas for improvement. Consider surveying homeowners to gather feedback on their pool experiences and any suggestions they may have for next season.
Use this information to update rules, policies, and procedures. This might include revising pool hours, adjusting guest policies, or implementing new safety measures. Having clear, updated policies will make the reopening process more efficient and help keep everyone on the same page.
5. Prepare for the Next Season
Finally, part of your closure process should include planning for the pool’s reopening next summer.. This includes scheduling major repairs or upgrades that must be completed beforehand. Discuss any issues with your maintenance provider early to make sure all work is completed on time.
Review your budget and reserve funds to ensure you have the financial resources for planned improvements or unexpected repairs. Preparing for the next season now will help prevent last-minute issues and facilitate a smooth and successful reopening.
Close Your Community’s Pool the Right Way
These five best practices can help your HOA board effectively manage your community pool closure – and make sure it’s properly maintained, secured, and prepared for the off-season. With careful planning and proactive communication, your community can look forward to a smooth transition from the summer season and a seamless reopening next year.
Ready to streamline your community management? At RealManage, we offer comprehensive services to help HOA boards manage their pool and other amenities, and simplify their management and operational responsibilities. Contact us today to learn how we can benefit your community year-round.