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

It’s difficult to ignore 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, various forms of swings have an obvious charm. However, as a Henrico County rental property owner, is it advisable to permit porch swings, tree swings, and hammocks on your property? Although swings and hammocks may be a massive attraction for tenants, they are also come with risks. Before putting or granting a swing or hammock, all possible outcomes must be considered.

Porch Swings

Porch swings are one amenity in a home that most people like – at least in theory. While it’s obvious that a porch swing can be a pleasant place to spend time, greet neighbors, and rest, it can also quickly become a safety hazard. It is relatively safe when a porch swing is correctly installed and used carefully. But over time, the structural support a swing needs may decrease, leading the swing to fall.

It is also possible for young children to hurt themselves on the swing, whether by falling off or being hit with it when it’s moving. Lastly, as they are exposed to the elements, porch swings may start to splinter or crack – mainly if they are not properly maintained.

Tree Swings

Tree swings are different from swing sets in various aspects, but the most significant is the height of the rope. Unlike swing sets, which are commonly close to the ground, a tree swing is often longer and can propel a person higher into the air. While this is part of its charm, it is also quite dangerous should anyone fall off.

The injuries caused by tree swings are often significantly more dangerous 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

Similar to tree swings, hammocks have the potential of harming trees. Yet, hammocks are also commonly viewed to be safer than a tree swing since they are closer to the ground. Hammocks are preferred among renters, homeowners, campers, and hikers because they are lightweight and easy to store. They can be set up and taken down very fast and provide a cozy place to sleep or nap any time of the day or night.

There are several types of hammocks, such as those with a freestanding frame. Unquestionably, hammocks also provide a risk of accident and injury, and like any swing, they can be a serious hazard if not used properly.

Swing Sets

The subject of swings and the risks involved automatically lead to children’s swing sets. While all swings do carry the risk of injury, a well-constructed swing set is possibly 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 up to you. However, by understanding the risks and rewards of each type, you can better make that decision when the time comes.

 

Unquestionably, not all decisions are easy to make, even after you have good information to go on. Contact the experts at Real Property Management Richmond Metro if you find yourself stuck or not knowing the right thing to do. Our Henrico County property managers can assist you in choosing what is best for your property and condition, as well as providing you with the advice and guidance you need to make having rental properties a pleasure. Call us at 804-417-7005.