Porch Swings, Tree Swings, and Hammocks: Should You Allow Them on Your Rental Property?

It’s hard to deny the appeal of a swing or a hammock. Whether it’s spending a lazy afternoon on a porch swing or in a hammock or swinging through the air on a tree swing, different types of swings have an exceptional charm. But as a Rochester rental property owner, is it reasonable to permit porch swings, tree swings, and hammocks on your property? Although swings and hammocks can be a big draw for tenants, they also come with risks. Before installing or approving a swing or hammock, it’s beneficial to assess all possible outcomes.

Porch Swings

Porch swings are one feature in a home that many people love – at least in theory. While it’s true that a porch swing can be a pleasant place to spend time, see neighbors, and relax, it can also easily become a safety hazard. It is relatively safe when a porch swing is correctly installed and used cautiously. But over time, the structural support a swing needs may weaken, leading the swing to fall.

It can also be easy for young children to hurt themselves on the swing, whether from falling off or being hit with it when it’s moving. To conclude, since they are exposed to the elements, porch swings may start to splinter or crack – especially if they are not properly maintained.

Tree Swings

Tree swings are different from swing sets in multiple ways, but the most important is the height of the rope. Unlike swing sets, which are fairly close to the ground, a tree swing is often longer and can propel a person higher into the air. Even though this is part of the entertainment, it is also incredibly dangerous should anyone fall off.

The injuries caused by tree swings are commonly far more awful than those from other forms of falls. Tree swings also damage trees, sometimes leaving the tree exposed to pests and the elements that will, over time, kill the entire tree.

Hammocks

Identical to tree swings, hammocks also contain the threat of hurting trees. But hammocks are also commonly considered safer than a tree swing since they are closer to the ground. Hammocks are appealing among renters, homeowners, campers, and hikers since they are lightweight and easy to store. They can be set up and taken down pretty fast and provide a cozy spot to sleep or nap any time of the day or night.

There are numerous varieties of hammocks, including some with a freestanding frame. Of course, hammocks also include a possibility of accident and injury, and like any swing, they can be a significant hazard if not used safely.

Swing Sets

The subject of swings and the risks involved naturally lead to children’s swing sets. Even though all swings do carry the risk of injury, a correctly built swing set is maybe the safest of all kinds of swings. Not only are sturdy swing sets designed to hold up under some rough treatment, but they are also firmly anchored and close to the ground.

Whether you or your tenant is thinking about adding a swing or hammock to your rental property, the final decision is entirely up to you. Yet, by understanding the risks and rewards of each type, you can more confidently make that decision when the time comes.

 

Surely, not all decisions are easy to make, even after you have great information to go on. Contact the experts at Real Property Management Silverstone if you find yourself stuck or not knowing the right thing to do. Our Rochester property managers can assist you with identifying what is best for your property and situation and give you the advice and guidance you need to make having rental properties a pleasure. Call us at 586-992-6419.