Many vacation rental property owners benefit greatly from having a hot tub on the premises. Investing in a hot tub can help you draw more renters, especially during the off-seasons. Believe it or not, hot tubs are even a draw for renters in Florida.

All of my vacation homes have hot tubs, including my Florida properties. Nearly every renter inquiring during the months of November and December asks about the hot tub. Without the hot tubs I believe my occupancy would be much lower.

As for managing and cleaning, be sure to hire a qualified spa specialist to come and clean your hot tub after each guest leaves. The jury is still out as to whether or not you should empty, clean and refill the water after each guest. Hot tubs take 4-8 hours to get up to temperature, and the chemicals cannot be fully tested until the water is up to temperature. Be sure to check with your state and local laws regarding chemical levels for public swimming pools and spas in your second home area.

If you have a hot tub, you should add a clause to your rental rules regarding hot tub safety.

Here are a couple of examples:

HOT TUB: We invite you to relax and enjoy the hot tub. Turn the water temperature up an hour prior to use until water is a comfortable temperature. When not in use, remember to turn down the water temperature to a slightly cooler level. Secure the cover over the hot tub by snapping it down on the sides. Please do not add any type of soap products to the water.

HOT TUBS: No children under the age of 12 permitted in hot tubs at any time. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) state that becoming overheated in a hot tub is not recommended during pregnancy. When using the hot tub, remember there is certain health risk associated with this facility. Use at your own risk. Our housekeepers drain, sanitize, refill and replenish chemicals in all tubs prior to your arrival; therefore, it may not be warm till later that evening. Hot tub covers are for insulation purposes and are not designed to support a person or persons. DO NOT STAND ON THE HOT TUB COVERS, they will break and you may be charged for replacement. Remember when not using the hot tub, leave cover on so hot tub will stay warm.

© Christine Karpinski 2006

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