**Pools, Parties and (Outdoor) Pits: Keeping Outdoor Multifamily Amenities Accessible and Secure**
*By Connect CRE Staff*
*This is the second part of a two-part series. To read the first installment, check out “Summer is Coming—Time for a Seasonal Apartment Amenities Focus.”*
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*Athenes Bauza*
Managing multifamily property amenities during warmer months involves much more than ensuring the pool has enough chlorine. According to Brian Buccino, President and COO at LIVunLtd, “Managing summertime amenities comes with unique operational pressures due to high demand and increased foot traffic.” Alexandra LaFlam, National Account Executive at WithMe Inc., adds that “overcrowding, amenity misuse, and supply strain are common challenges, especially during the summer when resident activity surges.”
Buccino, LaFlam, and Athenes Bauza of FirstService Residential emphasize that active oversight is critical during summer to ensure that residents can safely enjoy swimming pools, sun decks, dog parks, and barbecue areas.
### Increased Usage, Many Challenges
Bauza, who serves as Business Development Director for New Development and Multifamily Rentals, notes that property managers must carefully balance providing access to amenities with maintaining resident safety. One major challenge is staffing. “Often, properties leverage existing building staff to maintain and manage amenity spaces to control costs,” she explained. This approach can stretch team members thin and assign responsibilities beyond their expertise.
Another difficulty is maintaining ample supplies of shared resources like pool towels, waste bags at dog parks, or even basic items like coffee beans. “Resource management changes during the summer months,” said LaFlam.
Cleanliness also becomes a concern as outdoor spaces see an influx of visitors. Owners and managers must contend with issues like broken furniture, failing HVAC systems, and unauthorized guests, sometimes accompanied by alcohol-related disturbances.
### Baking in the Sol-utions
*Brian Buccino*
Experts agree that preparation is key. Bauza encourages hiring staff specifically trained to manage crowds, enforce health department guidelines, and uphold high hospitality standards.
Buccino elaborates, suggesting that seasonal hires should be onboarded early, with competitive wages and incentives to encourage retention.
Proper rule enforcement is another essential element. “Communicate the rules ahead of time and post them on-site,” Buccino recommends. Staff must be trained not only to enforce rules consistently but also to handle emergencies efficiently, including participating in safety drills and understanding established procedural plans.
Technology also plays a pivotal role. Buccino notes that access control systems tied to resident profiles can help prevent non-resident entry. LaFlam highlights that data analytics can anticipate supply needs, while Bauza affirms that smart systems can monitor capacity limits, especially in pool areas.
*Alexandra LaFlam*
Lastly, involving residents in the process can foster a sense of community and cooperation. “Summer is a great time to re-educate residents on amenity expectations,” LaFlam said. “A kickoff message outlining rules and etiquette can set the tone for the season and reduce friction.”
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*This article was originally published on ApartmentBuildings.com.*
