Does lake front rental need a fence

Question

I am buying a lake front property to be used as a long term rental property. Should I install a fence along the lake to avoid people falling in? My thought is to add a clause in the lease expressing the possibility of drowning if one falls into the lake. It sucks we need to even discuss these things, but in today's society...

Jeff Keller · Answer

If the lake is not on your property, you probably couldn't be held liable. If your property boundaries extend into the lake, there is the risk of liability. You need to check with an attorney to understand the risks. If I remember correctly in California, private property ownership ends at the edge of navigable waters.

The comment by @Chris T. of doing what your neighbors do is definitely worth considering.

Thomas S. · Answer

No a fence is not required on a lake front, the risk of drowning is s given and not something a landlord is required to protect tenants from. A pool is a different situation.

Your insurer is aware of an accepts the risks but unlike a pool a owner is not held responsible for a drowning at a lake since the lake is not on their property.

Chris T. · Answer

@Curtis Mears

If the comps in your area have fences, and/or you can get a premium on your rents by installing a fence, I say go for it.

If you're installing the fence because of liability reasons, then you shouldn't do it. There are other ways tenants can get into trouble at your property, besides the lake.