Quick answer
HOA, apartment and condo pools are usually regulated as public or semi-public pools, so they need a daily water chemistry log, a pre-opening safety check and maintenance records kept at the pool. When a pool service company maintains the pool, the board or property manager should require the service to fill in an on-site log at every visit.
- Community pools are generally regulated like public pools.
- The property owner is responsible — even when a pool company does the work.
- Require your pool service to log every visit on site.
- On non-service days, trained staff or volunteers must test and log.
Who is responsible for the HOA pool log?
The permit holder — usually the association or property owner — is responsible for compliance. A pool service contract does not transfer that responsibility. If the service visits three times a week, someone still needs to test and record chemistry on the other days the pool is open, and complete the daily safety check.
What to require from your pool service company
- A reading on the on-site log at every visit, with time and initials.
- All chemicals added, with quantities.
- Notes on equipment problems, drain covers and gates.
- Copies of their certified pool operator credential.
- Notification whenever a reading is out of range or the pool should close.
Common HOA pool problems
- Gates propped open by residents.
- No one testing on weekends when use is highest.
- Missing rules and capacity signs.
- Logs kept at the management office instead of at the pool.
- No incident record when a resident reports a fecal accident.
Frequently asked questions
Do HOA pools need to follow health department rules?
In most states, yes. Pools serving a community, apartment complex or condominium are typically classified as public or semi-public pools and must meet state code, including recordkeeping.
Should the pool company keep the log?
The log should stay at the pool. The service company fills it in at each visit, and the association or staff complete it on non-service days.
How often should an apartment pool be tested?
Every day the pool is open, before opening and during use, according to your state code.
This page is an educational summary, not legal advice. Pool and spa codes differ by state and county and change over time — always confirm requirements with the health department that inspects your facility.