It’s tough to resist 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 sorts of swings contain an unquestionable charm. However, as a White River Junction rental property owner, is it better to allow porch swings, tree swings, and hammocks on your property? While swings and hammocks can be a huge attraction for tenants, they also come with risks. Before building or approving a swing or hammock, it’s vital to evaluate all potential outcomes.
Porch Swings
Porch swings are one feature in a home that several people appreciate – at least in theory. While it’s correct that a porch swing can be a wonderful place to hang out, greet friends, and unwind, it can also quickly become a safety hazard. It is relatively safe when a porch swing is correctly installed and used carefully. But after some time, the structural support a swing demands may decrease, causing the swing to break down.
It can also be easy for young children to hurt themselves on the swing, either by falling off or being hit with it while it’s swinging. Finally, since they are exposed to the elements, porch swings may begin to splinter or crack – mainly if they are not properly maintained.
Tree Swings
Tree swings are unique from swing sets in various ways, but the most crucial is the height of the rope. Contrary to swing sets, which are quite close to the ground, a tree swing is often longer and can propel a person higher into the air. While this is part of the thrill, it is also incredibly dangerous should somebody fall off.
The injuries caused by tree swings are typically far more deadly 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
Comparable to tree swings, hammocks also hold the potential of damaging trees. However, hammocks are also usually described to be 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 straightforward to store. They can be set up and taken down quite fast and give a peaceful place to sleep or nap any time of the day or night.
There are numerous versions of hammocks, including ones with a freestanding frame. Obviously, hammocks also come with a possibility of accident and injury, and like any swing, they can be a serious hazard if not used carefully.
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 correctly designed swing set is certainly the safest of all types 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 fully up to you. However, by understanding the risks and rewards of each type, you can more confidently make that decision when the time comes.
Obviously, not all decisions are easy to make, even after you have sufficient information to go on. Contact the experts at Real Property Management Beacon if you find yourself stuck or not knowing the right thing to do. Our White River Junction property managers can help you choose what is best for your property and condition and give you the advice and guidance you deserve to make owning rental properties a pleasure. Call us at 603-448-8808.
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