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Neighbor Is Enraged After This Woman Doesn’t Allow Their Kids To Use Her Private Pool Since “They’re Just Kids”
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Neighbor Is Enraged After This Woman Doesn’t Allow Their Kids To Use Her Private Pool Since “They’re Just Kids”

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When you move into a new home, you never get to pick your neighbors. Sometimes you become friends with them, other times things become pretty complicated. The latter scenario happened to a family of two women who bought their own home, something they worked for very hard.

“It even has a pool which is just amazing and something I’d always wanted but never thought I’d have,” the 32-year-old author wrote about the house in a post on r/AITA. But it soon turned out that she was far from the only one who loved the pool.

“I keep finding neighbor’s kids using our pool having hopped our fence and I keep getting them to leave,” she said. The kids’ parents clearly did not see anything wrong with it, and even said that they were used to playing there thanks to the previous house owners.

Now the author wants to know if she was right to not allow the kids to play there, so scroll down through the whole post below and share your thoughts about it.

Image credits: To Tuscany (not the actual photo)

The author did not feel comfortable about it and told the parents she is not giving the kids her permission to use the pool

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Image credits: ewan traveler (not the actual photo)

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Image credits: Commercial_Motor394

Although dealing with neighbors can be weird at times, the important thing to realize is you can’t escape them. Not only do they know when you’re home, they have a pretty good idea of what you’ve been up to, meaning you want to be mainly on good terms with them.

At the same time, everyone has the right to feel comfortable in their own home, whether it’s your garden, your pool, your balcony or your kitchen with large windows that stretch from the ground to the top.

According to the mother and writer Cassandra Kyser, “you shouldn’t have to run from your car to your house because you’re afraid the neighbor kids will see that you’re home. You also have a right to refuse announced visitors. Your door does not have to be literally or metaphorically ‘open’ 24/7. And yes, you have the right to sleep in without relentless knocking,” she argues.

Kyser also argues that if you have a neighbor kid stopping by at all hours of the day, to keep your sanity, you need to set and enforce some rules. Moreover, you have to communicate them clearly to the kids’ parents.

Many people supported the author and said she was reasonable not to allow the kids in her pool if she didn’t want to

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nickyoldfielddesciple avatar
IlovemydogShilo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Buy a heavy duty pool cover and keep the pool covered when you're not using it. Keeps the kids out and helps keep the pool clean too. 😊

inservioletum avatar
Nothanks L. Walk
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like this idea. I was going to suggest beartraps, but the pool cover has the added advantage of keeping other animals out as well, which -- trust me -- is a blessing not to know the value of. Finding -- and particularly the getting rid of -- a dead deer in your pool is a frankly traumatising day.

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marshafredell avatar
Lovin' Life
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I must say that I agree with the new home owner. Any agreement between the old tenant and neighbor went out the window when the sale took place. Having a pool is a liability on the owners part which can be costly if one of the children were to get hurt.

chuckycheezburger avatar
Chucky Cheezburger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Which shows a sad state of things. Kids trespasses, gets hurt, and the owner of the pool gets sued... why aren't the kids parents watching the kids? Where I live, you have to put up a lockable fence if you have a pool because it's considered an "attractive nuisance". WTF? The nuisance is the kid that invites themselves over for a dip.

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robkneepkens avatar
Rob
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just... seriously... how is this even an aita? Who wouldn't agree with this?

dawnsardella-ayres avatar
Mrs. Jan Glass
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's shocking how many parents think their kids are entitled to everything, and everyone needs to accommodate whatever they want. There was a story about 10 years ago of a woman who was tormenting her neighbors, including their dying little girl, by putting up coffins and skeletons and claiming it was just for fun. When pushed, she finally admitted she thought she had every right to torment the family because they'd had a party with a bouncy house for their dying little kid, and the neighbor's kids weren't invited over to use the bouncy house, so their mom was pissed, and harassed this family until their daughter died. And people were saying she had a point, that her kids shouldn't' have been "left out"?

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skatey1979 avatar
Celeste Grant
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is crazy...if you are told no it means no, it doesn't mean carry on as you choose! The parents are teaching those children that they can have or do whatever they want, with no regard for anyone else. I'm sure the police have better things to be doing but I feel a call to them regarding trespassing might be the only way to stop this entitled behaviour from the parents

teresacline avatar
Cold Contagious
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These kinds of people have my last nerve twitching! No means no! Put up No Trespassing signs and call the police. Get some cameras for your home. They will wear you out, and blame you if anything happens to their child.

maureenmatthew73 avatar
Maureen Matthew
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Send them a registered letter or a letter from a lawyer citing what you have told them and what will happen if they don't comply. Just telling them is not enough as they will deny, deny, deny.

angelawhitehead avatar
Aussie panda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We have a pool now and it is very time consuming and costly to maintain. The more it gets used, the more chemicals it requires to keep it in balance. So these kids are actually creating cost for the new owners. If I were in that situation I’d be building a big high privacy fence- gives them privacy and stop the kids getting in. Or a fierce dog.

brightenearly avatar
Chery Ruszala
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Put up a camera to record any further incidents. Put a lock on the gate and next time you find swimmers in the pool call police. It is simply too dangerous to allow neighborhood kids to simply use your pool whenever they wish. They can sue even if you have told them to stay out. And what if a child actually drowned or were paralyzed from diving into shallow water? There is just too much risk here!

dpopknight avatar
Diane Knight
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In some areas, there needs to have a sign posted that there is to be 'NO Trespassing' and to be through, have a few well-marked places. Then when the police do come, it is in writing , in front of their noses, cause you know, they'd deny they ever knew, or ever told verbaly, I'd might add that to the sign. "Yeah, the Jones Family ,this means you !" These women earned this pool, it would be a shame that they lose it because of a law suit when someone gets hurt.

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mollywhuppie avatar
Molly Whuppie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What parent lets their kids swim unsupervised? Thats endangering a child. I reckon if this doesn't end place a call with CPS or the equivalent where you are.

janapetlnov avatar
Jjjane20
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Call the police every single time. There is no discussion. Your property, your rules. They have no right to do what they do.

canadianpanda avatar
CanadianPanda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA million times! I've read similar postings like this before too, is this an American thing? Assuming it is since these people/kids know no boundaries and rude.

pauljellema avatar
Poeha
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's defenitely not a Dutch thing. A lot of ppl have their own pool. You can get those things for 150 euro. I put a 35 euro one on the balcony, but the neighbour didn't like it when my son jumped in it from the rabbit cage and was yelling, cause he had so much fun, so we normally go to a lake or the local swimming pool.

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viviane_katz avatar
-
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And what are the parents going to do? Call city hall to reopen the pool??

dawnsardella-ayres avatar
Mrs. Jan Glass
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They will absolutely do something to destroy the pool, because if their kids can't use it, no one can. Count on something dead and/or contaminating to be chucked in there within the week.

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rita-lingwood avatar
Rita Lingwood
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Regarding the pool, what disgusting parents allowing their kids to do wrong by trespassing into the new neighbor s pool,I wonder if the previous owners left because of them,the parents are disrespectful and there kids will be ,,

craigreynolds_1 avatar
Craig Reynolds
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No more warnings/talks. Put up a camera with motion notifications and call the police every single time they are in your yard and tell the police that you absolutely want them charged with trespassing and not simply warned off. Get rid of the sign as well or the parents will lie and claim they have permission.

deannawoods avatar
deanna woods
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What's with all of these entitled people that decide that because they had an agreement with the previous owner that the new owner should allow it to continue. That is a bunch of nonsense and people need to stop being so entitled. The previous owner is not there anymore, therefore any agreement with them is voided. If you don't want those children in your pool area, you don't have to let them in it. If they got hurt, their parents would sue you into oblivion.

shotgundriver avatar
Kristine Stenglein
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

BTW a pool can in some places be considered an " attractive nuisance" by law and that makes for serious vulnerability with regards to liability . The tall fence with a locking gate is your best option

shotgundriver avatar
Kristine Stenglein
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What is worth people these days, acting like they are entitled to anything they want without regard for the owner(s) right to privacy, etc? The liability issue is a whole extra can o' worms; the parents of these little trespassers need to get schooled on how respect works. The owners would do best putting up a TALL fence with a locking gate and keep the signs same cameras

juliechute avatar
Hoodoo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Huge liability problem here- I don't blame OP one bit. It's unfortunate that the neighbour doesn't get that. Gettin a sturdy pool cover would probably do the trick. Havin the police chat w/ them about trespassing laws would likely work too, save the OP's have ta live there next to them🙄

skidog911 avatar
Kusotare
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's a saying, "Good fences make good neighbors." Few people know the corollary: "Electricity makes good fences."

dremosley avatar
Dre Mosley
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a private pool, not a community pool, and it's also a potential liability that opens you up to a lawsuit. Too bad the pool isn't in a screened enclosure.

davewriter2003 avatar
David Lightfoot
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sure makes me wish I could build pools and hot tubs so I could offer my services. nah, these parents are probably too cheap. Anyway, yes, damages and liabilities would be on you if something were to happen to the, a slip-and-fall accident or a deep end drowning. I would write a strongly worded letter explaining all this and then call in the authorities if they respond with a lawsuit or anything else. I would start sunbathing, swimming and doing back yard work naked or semi-naked. THAT'LL get the point across. BTW, if I were a private person like you, I'd also track down the former owners, ask to meet them for coffee and give them a few lessons on how to be "private people" too. But I'm not. Trust me, if I did have a "swimmer/athlete body", I'd be putting that body all over the Internet. ;)

fishdishbish avatar
Tybalt P.
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have a good conversation with the neighbors about this. Plainly stated, the kids are trespassing, you and your wife own the pool now, and they can’t go in it without your permission, it’s in the law. And the parents sending you dirty looks?? They’re just being unreasonably mean, and if they continue to do it even after you talk to them about it, I’d… well, I don’t know. I’ve never owned a house before. Also, they sound like Karens (the neighbors) who would ABSOLUTELY blame you if the kids got hurt, so if get them out of there fast before anything happens. Best of luck to you and your wife! (ETA: Spelling)

giustizia avatar
Jus
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't understand the American laws that make owners responsible for what happened on their property. Why on earth? They have a fence. You can't trespass. If you do and something happens, it's your own fault plus you trespassed...

mim8209 avatar
MimSorensson
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Agreed. It’s an absolute mystery to me too. It’s like the rules an eight years old bully enforces on the schoolyard. “Oh I pushed you, huh crybaby? And who’s fault is that? That’s right, it’s yours. You stood where I was going to walk. So now you give me your lunch money as an apology for being in my way”. What?

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amanda_33 avatar
Amanda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And if something happens to those kids, you’re liable for it. Definitely NTA.

donald_davidson_587 avatar
Donald Davidson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

stand your ground, as others have mentioned, if they get hurt they could end up owning your pool and your home! call the police each time and if it still continues, get a restraining order. you may look like a ogre to them, but you have to protect you, your spouse and your property. also, contact your home owner's insurance to see what they suggest as well, since they would be one of the one's paying out if there were an accident. but do get the law involved. this could be very dangerous for you!

justviv avatar
vivioh
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is called "an attractive nuisance". In the USA you are totally liable for injuries. I have a huge beautiful nonflowering mulberry tree in my front yard. Great big branches and so tempting to kids. One neighbors kid climbed it and fell out of the tree and broke his wrist. Guess who's homeowners insurance had to eat the costs?!?! Including pain and suffering...... right, mine. Even tho they'd been told so many times by me and their parents to stay off of it. It's sad that things have to be this way now but they are. It's the law even as unfair as it is.

charleswatts_1 avatar
Charles Watts
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You can't let stupid, entitled people bully you because they couldn't care less about your privacy or legal liability, well until one of the kids get hurt and they sue you for everything you have because they will feel entitled to that too.

marianmoore1948 avatar
Marian Moore
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Put a high a*s fence around it. lock the gate and add no trespassing . Signs saying they will be prosecuted. Put hidden cameras up because no telling what the nasty neighbors could do to your pool...like add to the water. Protect your property. To bad neighbors don't know how to be good neighbors anymore.

minetruly avatar
Mine Truly
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

THIS IS ILLEGAL IN SOME STATES. A pool is an "attractive hazard," and if a kid drowns, OP is liable. In my state, it's illegal to not lock the pool when not in use. OP, you need a LOCKED FENCE AROUND THE POOL.

juniorcj82 avatar
JuniorCJ82
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ah, entitlement rears its ugly head yet again in suburbia...

black_karen99 avatar
Karen Black
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hand them all releases stating if a child dies/drowns in the pool you are not held liable due to their not abiding by missive of the children not having permission to swim in the pool....see.if a bit of consequences rocks their world...and another..send them a bill for pool usage.....and then of course a cover ....

miz_jen_lee avatar
Jennifer Lee
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Because it is the children, not the parents, who are trespassing and using the pool, the release could be challenged in court because minors are not able to sign contracts. Pools are considered to be an "attractive nuisance", and the parents' lawyer would likely argue that their attempts to swim were known to the home-owner, and it was therefore up to the homeowner to adequately safeguard the pool by building a fence that the children could not get through or over. While this is obviously not fair to the homeowners, if a child did drown the focus of the case would be on the poor dead kid and the grieving parents, and they would likely end up settling out of court. We already know the neighbors are unreasonable and shamelessly entitled. They would totally destroy the homeowners in court, given the chance.

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sammiandvenus avatar
Jessie Hardy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Raise the fence to your property. If the kids are able to hop it, then if they do get hurt, the parents could argue that you did not secure your pool enough. I think a lot of places are really specific about the gates around the pool.

melinda_flick avatar
Melinda Flick
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had former neighbors whose little boy, 3 years old, walked out their back door, down the road 3 houses, got in grandma's pool, and drowned. No supervision whatsoever. Grandma blamed the parents, parents blamed Grandma. Grandma may or may not have been home at the time, I never knew. Stupid accident, and very sad.

marylicausi avatar
Mary Licausi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We are longtime pool owners. 20 years in our previous home, 15 years in our current home. While we have always been ok.with our children and grandchildren inviting friends over to swim, we are not ok.with fence jumpers. Owning a pool comes with responsibilities. In our state we are required to have a minimum of a 6 ft wood, vinyl or brick privacy fence with locking gates. If the fence is wood, there can be only 2 rails the boards are nailed to because 3 rails can be used like a ladder to climb If it is an above ground pool with deck, the gate must lock. If you use a ladder to access the pool, the outside ladder must be removable or swing up in a locking position. God forbid any fence jumpers get hurt , but I have complied with laws, codes and homeowner insurance guidelines. Sounds as if the OP has done all she can to keep these uninvited children out of her yard and pool. If it happens again, time to call.the police and have them give these kids a stern warning.

curriejg avatar
James G. Currie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One of the many reasons in a lot of places, pools actually decrease property values.

yoanacorro avatar
Yoana Corro
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The entitlement is real. Not the a*****e at all. These parents will sue you faster than you can say “it’s my pool now!” As soon as one of their kids gets hurt.

hewinked avatar
MJ
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would go so far as to tell their parents again why you can't have them in your pool...but make sure you record the entire conversation. Even if just the audio. If they ever try to get even with you or lie (saying despite the no trespassing signs we had mutual agreement just for the kids), you will have proof to protect yourself.

donald_davidson_587 avatar
Donald Davidson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

you might also want to contact CPS, since the parents are knowingly allowing their kids to illegally enter your fenced property and using your pool without any adult supervision.

foxfiretlc avatar
Tina Holmes-Gouine
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would personally post NO TRESPASSING signs, tell the parents that if their kids get caught in the pool they will be reported to the police, and put up video surveillance cameras. That way your covering all your bases. If someone comes into your yard and pool without petmission and ends up hurt it can and very may end up entangling you in a major lawsuit. P.S. put the signs in places where they can't be tampered with and make sure they are extremely visible from all angles. That way nobody can say "I didn't see any no trespassing signs". Just my honest opinion.

noneanon avatar
Random Anon
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Lol people with their self-entitlement the size of Greenland. Ask them to sign a waiver if their kids want to use the pool. Make sure to notarize it. Now, if their kids get killed, goes missing or lose limbs at your place, they concede all legal rights to pursue the matter. And you reserve the right to sue them for mental distress if such an event occurs. Set the minimum of the settlement on the value of your house because such an event would "taint" the house.

l_addis avatar
Lynnette Addis
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I totally agree that you have the right to decide whether or not to allow other people to use your private property. These parents obviously have no control over their kids and are terrified of trying to lay down the law with them.

beth_landers avatar
Beth L
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Time for a taller fence. And some aggressive plants under it...

bronzedarkness avatar
C O S
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree with everyone telling her to take legal action. The moment I read about those kids breaking into her property and the parents response, I thought to myself, 'If that had been me, honey, I would have told those parents that their kids are essentially doing something illegal and that they are encouraging it, and that I don't have to deal with their shitty parenting. Next time I catch those kids is when I'll call the police.'

napo_allenius-tapiovaara avatar
Napo Allenius-Tapiovaara
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rent it to them. Make a formal contract that says you are not responsible on any kind of injury, death and/or damage. Rent includes maintainance and cash. Simple.

qexfic avatar
Nicole Krenzler
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Doesn't work that way. Your property, your liability. You could get really good liability insurance, and charge them the premium, at best.

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cricket1700_1 avatar
Debbie Gaab
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They want their kids to swim in hot weather they need to buy their own pool or drive them to a public pool to swim. It’s not your job to make sure they get to swim. Next time they hop over your fence call the police and report them for trespassing

kim_lorton avatar
Kim Lorton
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We used to have kids hopping our fence to go to their street, behind ours. They broke a couple of posts. Police said to post a No Trespassing sign

camlynn1234 avatar
Miss Frankfurter
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the late 60's it was unusual for people to have pools in their backyards. This was 🇨🇦 back then. My aunt and uncle put a pool in. They had 3 kids. They also installed a flagpole in the yard. They made it clear to the entire neighborhood that when the green flag is flying the neighborhood kids are welcome to just come over. If the white flag was flying, call first. If the red flag was flying, NO. It worked really well.

briankstanton avatar
Brian Stanton
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

🤦‍♂️ barter cleaning agreement with former owners. Did they even bother to attempt to strike a deal? Wow what a joke.

nightshade1972 avatar
Nightshade1972
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The *only* way the OP would be "required" to let the kids use her pool is if it was somehow in the deed paperwork that, "Seller agreed to let Kids use the pool in perpetuity, so Buyer must agree to those terms as well." If that caveat was explained to OP and her wife, and they agreed to buy the house anyway, then they're stuck. However, I strongly doubt that's what happened, so if there's nothing in the deed explicitly giving the neighbors permission, everyone else is correct, and kids/parents need to be brought up on trespassing charges.

lisaintally avatar
Lisa Intally
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Actually, you are probably legally required to fence it off in a way that cannot be breached as pools are considered "attractive nuisances." If a kid was hurt or died as a result of the pool use, the responsiblity is thought to be on the adult owner of the pool and not the minor who was trespassing.

tristaw avatar
Trista Weidenborner
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I see so many stories of “elderly couple who used to live here let neighborhood kids use their pool but they don’t live there anymore and now kid’s parents are mad they can’t use someone else’s property as daycare/their second yard.”

tdigits avatar
Bobbi McGough Robert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your property, your pool. Nobody else gets to use it without your permission. If others insist on using it call the police on them for trespassing!

macdaddy187 avatar
Shecky Feinstein
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There’s a pond, and there’s a pool. Pond would be good for them.

mdoube avatar
Matt Doube
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nope. The new owners are entitled to stop the next door kids from swimming in their pool. New owners, new rules.... not to mention legal complications that will arise should any of the kids drown while the new owners are away.

rebeccaelliott avatar
Rebecca Elliott
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We had a similar issue come up many years ago. We explained to the parents that the additional insurance coverage required, just in someone got hurt, was $300 a month, and that we would be happy to host the kids if the parents paid that premium. That put a stop to it. That $300 would be closer to $800 in today's market.

jjezzabel avatar
Donna Partain
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

SERIOUSLY?! JUST CALL THE DAMN COPS AND PRESS CHARGES. SO WHAT IF THEY THINK YOU'RE AN A*****E-THEY ALREADY THINK YOU'RE AN A*****E. WHEN 1PATENT HAS TO DEAL WITH THEIR CHILD BEING ARRESTED AND THE ENTIRE PROBLEM WILL STOP. (YOU CAN ALWAYS DROP THE CHARGES WHEN THEY GET THE MESSAGE).

taylorhe56 avatar
Helen Taylor
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your house, your rules, your liability! Buy cameras, call police if they trespass, put up “NO TRESPASSING” signs! Sounds like those neighbors don’t even watch their kids while they are in the pool! Accident waiting to happen! Stick by your guns!

michellec0581 avatar
Michelle C
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Make sure you posted the No Trespassing and Private Property notices. Since you have a privacy fence you did your due diligence to keep kids out. Install surveillance, log everything, and have your local police send an officer to inform the neighbors (you can request by calling non-emergency number). I only say because if a kid impales themselves while jumping you fence or gets hurt/drown in your pool/property they won't have grounds to sue you or your homeowners insurance. Also if the cause any damage the parents will be held liable for the cost. Finally when the snotty neighbors give you dirty looks flip them off!

sallybrown168 avatar
Sally Brown
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’d be having a look at your house insurance policy first. Then I would be very concerned that kids being kids could get hurt. It is trespassing which is a lawful offence. It’s pretty generous of you to keep the pool immaculately clean for the kids. If it’s such an issue to the parents, like you have already suggested, put up your own pool for your kids.

kim_lorton avatar
Kim Lorton
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If they trespass and get hurt, then you can file charges for trespassing. And you are mot liable. The sign was / is posted clearly and they chose to ignore it. It becomes their problem. It worked! No more fence hoppingb

geekymcdork avatar
Aubrie Allen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would never allow neighbors or anyone to use my pool because if they get hurt, they're going to blame you and sue.

lorrainegabris avatar
Lorraine Gabris
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You have spoken to the parents, you have sent the children home, you need to call the police and report what's going on and what you've done to discourage this. Create a paper trail, these children are hopping the fence and enjoying your pool, parents are allowing the behavior, despite your attempts, I am assuming the kids are not toddlers and are old enough to know better if they used the pool and assisted with maintenance, not sure "attractive nuisance" applies here, more like ignorant,entitled parents, you need to call the police, explain,have them go over,talk to idiot parents and if nothing else, establish an official no trespassing warning to them. Make sure you call the police everytime so there's a paper trail.

brindlenutter avatar
Camo Pena
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's all fun and games until somebody else's kid drowns in your pool. Lock your yard and cover your pool.

judylerner avatar
Judy Lerner
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's called AN ATTRACTIVE NUISANCE. Tell the parents your homeowner 's insurance would be canceled if anything happens to their kids! Make sure access is not available when you are not there. This is a dangerous situation! Tell them your insurance just will not allow it-if they don't get it-call the police re trespassing. Protect your life, assets, home.

ksitrukion1 avatar
Kurtis Wethington
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The parents' entitlement and disrespect doesn't surprise me and *does* irritate me, BUT remembering the saying about not peeing in pools/not using someone's toilet happily reminds me of how Beavis and Butt-Head mangled said saying.

poco_loco avatar
Poco Loco
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don’t be so cold hearted, why can’t you just talk to the kids like a human. Understand why they are using your pool by getting to know them, then you make educated decisions based off the situation. Creating enemies with your neighbors is not fun and tiresome. Kids are generally nice and once you get to know them they will respect you. Until then you’re just 2 old mean lesbians and you will be treated as such until they know you and you know them.

richele311 avatar
Richele Ford
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I understand the liability part of it. I would let the kids play and cool off under certain conditions. Like the parents are watching over them and they are being safe. I don't think it's right for the parents to expect that but you are kinda being selfish for not even trying to be kind to children. I'm glad I'm not you, I feel way more sorry for you than these hot bored little children. The love and niceness you give out will come back to you in more ways than one. You could set some limits and still not be the selfish kid haters of the neighborhood. The old people before you were nice and lived to talk about. Be a little more like them. You could die today and your legacy could be. I managed to keep kids out of MY pool. Congratulations Maybe that can be your motto in heaven.

marinemom1208 avatar
Monica landreth
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not about being nice, it's about being SAFE. If the parents want their kids to swim they should get their own pool and stop trying to dump their kids off on neighbors and try to mooch what they have

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nickyoldfielddesciple avatar
IlovemydogShilo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Buy a heavy duty pool cover and keep the pool covered when you're not using it. Keeps the kids out and helps keep the pool clean too. 😊

inservioletum avatar
Nothanks L. Walk
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I like this idea. I was going to suggest beartraps, but the pool cover has the added advantage of keeping other animals out as well, which -- trust me -- is a blessing not to know the value of. Finding -- and particularly the getting rid of -- a dead deer in your pool is a frankly traumatising day.

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marshafredell avatar
Lovin' Life
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I must say that I agree with the new home owner. Any agreement between the old tenant and neighbor went out the window when the sale took place. Having a pool is a liability on the owners part which can be costly if one of the children were to get hurt.

chuckycheezburger avatar
Chucky Cheezburger
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Which shows a sad state of things. Kids trespasses, gets hurt, and the owner of the pool gets sued... why aren't the kids parents watching the kids? Where I live, you have to put up a lockable fence if you have a pool because it's considered an "attractive nuisance". WTF? The nuisance is the kid that invites themselves over for a dip.

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robkneepkens avatar
Rob
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Just... seriously... how is this even an aita? Who wouldn't agree with this?

dawnsardella-ayres avatar
Mrs. Jan Glass
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's shocking how many parents think their kids are entitled to everything, and everyone needs to accommodate whatever they want. There was a story about 10 years ago of a woman who was tormenting her neighbors, including their dying little girl, by putting up coffins and skeletons and claiming it was just for fun. When pushed, she finally admitted she thought she had every right to torment the family because they'd had a party with a bouncy house for their dying little kid, and the neighbor's kids weren't invited over to use the bouncy house, so their mom was pissed, and harassed this family until their daughter died. And people were saying she had a point, that her kids shouldn't' have been "left out"?

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skatey1979 avatar
Celeste Grant
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is crazy...if you are told no it means no, it doesn't mean carry on as you choose! The parents are teaching those children that they can have or do whatever they want, with no regard for anyone else. I'm sure the police have better things to be doing but I feel a call to them regarding trespassing might be the only way to stop this entitled behaviour from the parents

teresacline avatar
Cold Contagious
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

These kinds of people have my last nerve twitching! No means no! Put up No Trespassing signs and call the police. Get some cameras for your home. They will wear you out, and blame you if anything happens to their child.

maureenmatthew73 avatar
Maureen Matthew
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Send them a registered letter or a letter from a lawyer citing what you have told them and what will happen if they don't comply. Just telling them is not enough as they will deny, deny, deny.

angelawhitehead avatar
Aussie panda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We have a pool now and it is very time consuming and costly to maintain. The more it gets used, the more chemicals it requires to keep it in balance. So these kids are actually creating cost for the new owners. If I were in that situation I’d be building a big high privacy fence- gives them privacy and stop the kids getting in. Or a fierce dog.

brightenearly avatar
Chery Ruszala
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Put up a camera to record any further incidents. Put a lock on the gate and next time you find swimmers in the pool call police. It is simply too dangerous to allow neighborhood kids to simply use your pool whenever they wish. They can sue even if you have told them to stay out. And what if a child actually drowned or were paralyzed from diving into shallow water? There is just too much risk here!

dpopknight avatar
Diane Knight
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In some areas, there needs to have a sign posted that there is to be 'NO Trespassing' and to be through, have a few well-marked places. Then when the police do come, it is in writing , in front of their noses, cause you know, they'd deny they ever knew, or ever told verbaly, I'd might add that to the sign. "Yeah, the Jones Family ,this means you !" These women earned this pool, it would be a shame that they lose it because of a law suit when someone gets hurt.

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mollywhuppie avatar
Molly Whuppie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What parent lets their kids swim unsupervised? Thats endangering a child. I reckon if this doesn't end place a call with CPS or the equivalent where you are.

janapetlnov avatar
Jjjane20
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Call the police every single time. There is no discussion. Your property, your rules. They have no right to do what they do.

canadianpanda avatar
CanadianPanda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA million times! I've read similar postings like this before too, is this an American thing? Assuming it is since these people/kids know no boundaries and rude.

pauljellema avatar
Poeha
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's defenitely not a Dutch thing. A lot of ppl have their own pool. You can get those things for 150 euro. I put a 35 euro one on the balcony, but the neighbour didn't like it when my son jumped in it from the rabbit cage and was yelling, cause he had so much fun, so we normally go to a lake or the local swimming pool.

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viviane_katz avatar
-
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And what are the parents going to do? Call city hall to reopen the pool??

dawnsardella-ayres avatar
Mrs. Jan Glass
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They will absolutely do something to destroy the pool, because if their kids can't use it, no one can. Count on something dead and/or contaminating to be chucked in there within the week.

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rita-lingwood avatar
Rita Lingwood
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Regarding the pool, what disgusting parents allowing their kids to do wrong by trespassing into the new neighbor s pool,I wonder if the previous owners left because of them,the parents are disrespectful and there kids will be ,,

craigreynolds_1 avatar
Craig Reynolds
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

No more warnings/talks. Put up a camera with motion notifications and call the police every single time they are in your yard and tell the police that you absolutely want them charged with trespassing and not simply warned off. Get rid of the sign as well or the parents will lie and claim they have permission.

deannawoods avatar
deanna woods
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What's with all of these entitled people that decide that because they had an agreement with the previous owner that the new owner should allow it to continue. That is a bunch of nonsense and people need to stop being so entitled. The previous owner is not there anymore, therefore any agreement with them is voided. If you don't want those children in your pool area, you don't have to let them in it. If they got hurt, their parents would sue you into oblivion.

shotgundriver avatar
Kristine Stenglein
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

BTW a pool can in some places be considered an " attractive nuisance" by law and that makes for serious vulnerability with regards to liability . The tall fence with a locking gate is your best option

shotgundriver avatar
Kristine Stenglein
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

What is worth people these days, acting like they are entitled to anything they want without regard for the owner(s) right to privacy, etc? The liability issue is a whole extra can o' worms; the parents of these little trespassers need to get schooled on how respect works. The owners would do best putting up a TALL fence with a locking gate and keep the signs same cameras

juliechute avatar
Hoodoo
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

NTA. Huge liability problem here- I don't blame OP one bit. It's unfortunate that the neighbour doesn't get that. Gettin a sturdy pool cover would probably do the trick. Havin the police chat w/ them about trespassing laws would likely work too, save the OP's have ta live there next to them🙄

skidog911 avatar
Kusotare
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There's a saying, "Good fences make good neighbors." Few people know the corollary: "Electricity makes good fences."

dremosley avatar
Dre Mosley
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's a private pool, not a community pool, and it's also a potential liability that opens you up to a lawsuit. Too bad the pool isn't in a screened enclosure.

davewriter2003 avatar
David Lightfoot
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Sure makes me wish I could build pools and hot tubs so I could offer my services. nah, these parents are probably too cheap. Anyway, yes, damages and liabilities would be on you if something were to happen to the, a slip-and-fall accident or a deep end drowning. I would write a strongly worded letter explaining all this and then call in the authorities if they respond with a lawsuit or anything else. I would start sunbathing, swimming and doing back yard work naked or semi-naked. THAT'LL get the point across. BTW, if I were a private person like you, I'd also track down the former owners, ask to meet them for coffee and give them a few lessons on how to be "private people" too. But I'm not. Trust me, if I did have a "swimmer/athlete body", I'd be putting that body all over the Internet. ;)

fishdishbish avatar
Tybalt P.
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Have a good conversation with the neighbors about this. Plainly stated, the kids are trespassing, you and your wife own the pool now, and they can’t go in it without your permission, it’s in the law. And the parents sending you dirty looks?? They’re just being unreasonably mean, and if they continue to do it even after you talk to them about it, I’d… well, I don’t know. I’ve never owned a house before. Also, they sound like Karens (the neighbors) who would ABSOLUTELY blame you if the kids got hurt, so if get them out of there fast before anything happens. Best of luck to you and your wife! (ETA: Spelling)

giustizia avatar
Jus
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I don't understand the American laws that make owners responsible for what happened on their property. Why on earth? They have a fence. You can't trespass. If you do and something happens, it's your own fault plus you trespassed...

mim8209 avatar
MimSorensson
Community Member
1 year ago (edited) DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Agreed. It’s an absolute mystery to me too. It’s like the rules an eight years old bully enforces on the schoolyard. “Oh I pushed you, huh crybaby? And who’s fault is that? That’s right, it’s yours. You stood where I was going to walk. So now you give me your lunch money as an apology for being in my way”. What?

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amanda_33 avatar
Amanda
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

And if something happens to those kids, you’re liable for it. Definitely NTA.

donald_davidson_587 avatar
Donald Davidson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

stand your ground, as others have mentioned, if they get hurt they could end up owning your pool and your home! call the police each time and if it still continues, get a restraining order. you may look like a ogre to them, but you have to protect you, your spouse and your property. also, contact your home owner's insurance to see what they suggest as well, since they would be one of the one's paying out if there were an accident. but do get the law involved. this could be very dangerous for you!

justviv avatar
vivioh
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

This is called "an attractive nuisance". In the USA you are totally liable for injuries. I have a huge beautiful nonflowering mulberry tree in my front yard. Great big branches and so tempting to kids. One neighbors kid climbed it and fell out of the tree and broke his wrist. Guess who's homeowners insurance had to eat the costs?!?! Including pain and suffering...... right, mine. Even tho they'd been told so many times by me and their parents to stay off of it. It's sad that things have to be this way now but they are. It's the law even as unfair as it is.

charleswatts_1 avatar
Charles Watts
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You can't let stupid, entitled people bully you because they couldn't care less about your privacy or legal liability, well until one of the kids get hurt and they sue you for everything you have because they will feel entitled to that too.

marianmoore1948 avatar
Marian Moore
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Put a high a*s fence around it. lock the gate and add no trespassing . Signs saying they will be prosecuted. Put hidden cameras up because no telling what the nasty neighbors could do to your pool...like add to the water. Protect your property. To bad neighbors don't know how to be good neighbors anymore.

minetruly avatar
Mine Truly
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

THIS IS ILLEGAL IN SOME STATES. A pool is an "attractive hazard," and if a kid drowns, OP is liable. In my state, it's illegal to not lock the pool when not in use. OP, you need a LOCKED FENCE AROUND THE POOL.

juniorcj82 avatar
JuniorCJ82
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Ah, entitlement rears its ugly head yet again in suburbia...

black_karen99 avatar
Karen Black
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Hand them all releases stating if a child dies/drowns in the pool you are not held liable due to their not abiding by missive of the children not having permission to swim in the pool....see.if a bit of consequences rocks their world...and another..send them a bill for pool usage.....and then of course a cover ....

miz_jen_lee avatar
Jennifer Lee
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Because it is the children, not the parents, who are trespassing and using the pool, the release could be challenged in court because minors are not able to sign contracts. Pools are considered to be an "attractive nuisance", and the parents' lawyer would likely argue that their attempts to swim were known to the home-owner, and it was therefore up to the homeowner to adequately safeguard the pool by building a fence that the children could not get through or over. While this is obviously not fair to the homeowners, if a child did drown the focus of the case would be on the poor dead kid and the grieving parents, and they would likely end up settling out of court. We already know the neighbors are unreasonable and shamelessly entitled. They would totally destroy the homeowners in court, given the chance.

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sammiandvenus avatar
Jessie Hardy
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Raise the fence to your property. If the kids are able to hop it, then if they do get hurt, the parents could argue that you did not secure your pool enough. I think a lot of places are really specific about the gates around the pool.

melinda_flick avatar
Melinda Flick
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I had former neighbors whose little boy, 3 years old, walked out their back door, down the road 3 houses, got in grandma's pool, and drowned. No supervision whatsoever. Grandma blamed the parents, parents blamed Grandma. Grandma may or may not have been home at the time, I never knew. Stupid accident, and very sad.

marylicausi avatar
Mary Licausi
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We are longtime pool owners. 20 years in our previous home, 15 years in our current home. While we have always been ok.with our children and grandchildren inviting friends over to swim, we are not ok.with fence jumpers. Owning a pool comes with responsibilities. In our state we are required to have a minimum of a 6 ft wood, vinyl or brick privacy fence with locking gates. If the fence is wood, there can be only 2 rails the boards are nailed to because 3 rails can be used like a ladder to climb If it is an above ground pool with deck, the gate must lock. If you use a ladder to access the pool, the outside ladder must be removable or swing up in a locking position. God forbid any fence jumpers get hurt , but I have complied with laws, codes and homeowner insurance guidelines. Sounds as if the OP has done all she can to keep these uninvited children out of her yard and pool. If it happens again, time to call.the police and have them give these kids a stern warning.

curriejg avatar
James G. Currie
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

One of the many reasons in a lot of places, pools actually decrease property values.

yoanacorro avatar
Yoana Corro
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The entitlement is real. Not the a*****e at all. These parents will sue you faster than you can say “it’s my pool now!” As soon as one of their kids gets hurt.

hewinked avatar
MJ
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would go so far as to tell their parents again why you can't have them in your pool...but make sure you record the entire conversation. Even if just the audio. If they ever try to get even with you or lie (saying despite the no trespassing signs we had mutual agreement just for the kids), you will have proof to protect yourself.

donald_davidson_587 avatar
Donald Davidson
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

you might also want to contact CPS, since the parents are knowingly allowing their kids to illegally enter your fenced property and using your pool without any adult supervision.

foxfiretlc avatar
Tina Holmes-Gouine
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would personally post NO TRESPASSING signs, tell the parents that if their kids get caught in the pool they will be reported to the police, and put up video surveillance cameras. That way your covering all your bases. If someone comes into your yard and pool without petmission and ends up hurt it can and very may end up entangling you in a major lawsuit. P.S. put the signs in places where they can't be tampered with and make sure they are extremely visible from all angles. That way nobody can say "I didn't see any no trespassing signs". Just my honest opinion.

noneanon avatar
Random Anon
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Lol people with their self-entitlement the size of Greenland. Ask them to sign a waiver if their kids want to use the pool. Make sure to notarize it. Now, if their kids get killed, goes missing or lose limbs at your place, they concede all legal rights to pursue the matter. And you reserve the right to sue them for mental distress if such an event occurs. Set the minimum of the settlement on the value of your house because such an event would "taint" the house.

l_addis avatar
Lynnette Addis
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I totally agree that you have the right to decide whether or not to allow other people to use your private property. These parents obviously have no control over their kids and are terrified of trying to lay down the law with them.

beth_landers avatar
Beth L
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Time for a taller fence. And some aggressive plants under it...

bronzedarkness avatar
C O S
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I agree with everyone telling her to take legal action. The moment I read about those kids breaking into her property and the parents response, I thought to myself, 'If that had been me, honey, I would have told those parents that their kids are essentially doing something illegal and that they are encouraging it, and that I don't have to deal with their shitty parenting. Next time I catch those kids is when I'll call the police.'

napo_allenius-tapiovaara avatar
Napo Allenius-Tapiovaara
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Rent it to them. Make a formal contract that says you are not responsible on any kind of injury, death and/or damage. Rent includes maintainance and cash. Simple.

qexfic avatar
Nicole Krenzler
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Doesn't work that way. Your property, your liability. You could get really good liability insurance, and charge them the premium, at best.

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cricket1700_1 avatar
Debbie Gaab
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

They want their kids to swim in hot weather they need to buy their own pool or drive them to a public pool to swim. It’s not your job to make sure they get to swim. Next time they hop over your fence call the police and report them for trespassing

kim_lorton avatar
Kim Lorton
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We used to have kids hopping our fence to go to their street, behind ours. They broke a couple of posts. Police said to post a No Trespassing sign

camlynn1234 avatar
Miss Frankfurter
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

In the late 60's it was unusual for people to have pools in their backyards. This was 🇨🇦 back then. My aunt and uncle put a pool in. They had 3 kids. They also installed a flagpole in the yard. They made it clear to the entire neighborhood that when the green flag is flying the neighborhood kids are welcome to just come over. If the white flag was flying, call first. If the red flag was flying, NO. It worked really well.

briankstanton avatar
Brian Stanton
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

🤦‍♂️ barter cleaning agreement with former owners. Did they even bother to attempt to strike a deal? Wow what a joke.

nightshade1972 avatar
Nightshade1972
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The *only* way the OP would be "required" to let the kids use her pool is if it was somehow in the deed paperwork that, "Seller agreed to let Kids use the pool in perpetuity, so Buyer must agree to those terms as well." If that caveat was explained to OP and her wife, and they agreed to buy the house anyway, then they're stuck. However, I strongly doubt that's what happened, so if there's nothing in the deed explicitly giving the neighbors permission, everyone else is correct, and kids/parents need to be brought up on trespassing charges.

lisaintally avatar
Lisa Intally
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Actually, you are probably legally required to fence it off in a way that cannot be breached as pools are considered "attractive nuisances." If a kid was hurt or died as a result of the pool use, the responsiblity is thought to be on the adult owner of the pool and not the minor who was trespassing.

tristaw avatar
Trista Weidenborner
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I see so many stories of “elderly couple who used to live here let neighborhood kids use their pool but they don’t live there anymore and now kid’s parents are mad they can’t use someone else’s property as daycare/their second yard.”

tdigits avatar
Bobbi McGough Robert
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your property, your pool. Nobody else gets to use it without your permission. If others insist on using it call the police on them for trespassing!

macdaddy187 avatar
Shecky Feinstein
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

There’s a pond, and there’s a pool. Pond would be good for them.

mdoube avatar
Matt Doube
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Nope. The new owners are entitled to stop the next door kids from swimming in their pool. New owners, new rules.... not to mention legal complications that will arise should any of the kids drown while the new owners are away.

rebeccaelliott avatar
Rebecca Elliott
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

We had a similar issue come up many years ago. We explained to the parents that the additional insurance coverage required, just in someone got hurt, was $300 a month, and that we would be happy to host the kids if the parents paid that premium. That put a stop to it. That $300 would be closer to $800 in today's market.

jjezzabel avatar
Donna Partain
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

SERIOUSLY?! JUST CALL THE DAMN COPS AND PRESS CHARGES. SO WHAT IF THEY THINK YOU'RE AN A*****E-THEY ALREADY THINK YOU'RE AN A*****E. WHEN 1PATENT HAS TO DEAL WITH THEIR CHILD BEING ARRESTED AND THE ENTIRE PROBLEM WILL STOP. (YOU CAN ALWAYS DROP THE CHARGES WHEN THEY GET THE MESSAGE).

taylorhe56 avatar
Helen Taylor
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Your house, your rules, your liability! Buy cameras, call police if they trespass, put up “NO TRESPASSING” signs! Sounds like those neighbors don’t even watch their kids while they are in the pool! Accident waiting to happen! Stick by your guns!

michellec0581 avatar
Michelle C
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Make sure you posted the No Trespassing and Private Property notices. Since you have a privacy fence you did your due diligence to keep kids out. Install surveillance, log everything, and have your local police send an officer to inform the neighbors (you can request by calling non-emergency number). I only say because if a kid impales themselves while jumping you fence or gets hurt/drown in your pool/property they won't have grounds to sue you or your homeowners insurance. Also if the cause any damage the parents will be held liable for the cost. Finally when the snotty neighbors give you dirty looks flip them off!

sallybrown168 avatar
Sally Brown
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I’d be having a look at your house insurance policy first. Then I would be very concerned that kids being kids could get hurt. It is trespassing which is a lawful offence. It’s pretty generous of you to keep the pool immaculately clean for the kids. If it’s such an issue to the parents, like you have already suggested, put up your own pool for your kids.

kim_lorton avatar
Kim Lorton
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

If they trespass and get hurt, then you can file charges for trespassing. And you are mot liable. The sign was / is posted clearly and they chose to ignore it. It becomes their problem. It worked! No more fence hoppingb

geekymcdork avatar
Aubrie Allen
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I would never allow neighbors or anyone to use my pool because if they get hurt, they're going to blame you and sue.

lorrainegabris avatar
Lorraine Gabris
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

You have spoken to the parents, you have sent the children home, you need to call the police and report what's going on and what you've done to discourage this. Create a paper trail, these children are hopping the fence and enjoying your pool, parents are allowing the behavior, despite your attempts, I am assuming the kids are not toddlers and are old enough to know better if they used the pool and assisted with maintenance, not sure "attractive nuisance" applies here, more like ignorant,entitled parents, you need to call the police, explain,have them go over,talk to idiot parents and if nothing else, establish an official no trespassing warning to them. Make sure you call the police everytime so there's a paper trail.

brindlenutter avatar
Camo Pena
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's all fun and games until somebody else's kid drowns in your pool. Lock your yard and cover your pool.

judylerner avatar
Judy Lerner
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's called AN ATTRACTIVE NUISANCE. Tell the parents your homeowner 's insurance would be canceled if anything happens to their kids! Make sure access is not available when you are not there. This is a dangerous situation! Tell them your insurance just will not allow it-if they don't get it-call the police re trespassing. Protect your life, assets, home.

ksitrukion1 avatar
Kurtis Wethington
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

The parents' entitlement and disrespect doesn't surprise me and *does* irritate me, BUT remembering the saying about not peeing in pools/not using someone's toilet happily reminds me of how Beavis and Butt-Head mangled said saying.

poco_loco avatar
Poco Loco
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

Don’t be so cold hearted, why can’t you just talk to the kids like a human. Understand why they are using your pool by getting to know them, then you make educated decisions based off the situation. Creating enemies with your neighbors is not fun and tiresome. Kids are generally nice and once you get to know them they will respect you. Until then you’re just 2 old mean lesbians and you will be treated as such until they know you and you know them.

richele311 avatar
Richele Ford
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

I understand the liability part of it. I would let the kids play and cool off under certain conditions. Like the parents are watching over them and they are being safe. I don't think it's right for the parents to expect that but you are kinda being selfish for not even trying to be kind to children. I'm glad I'm not you, I feel way more sorry for you than these hot bored little children. The love and niceness you give out will come back to you in more ways than one. You could set some limits and still not be the selfish kid haters of the neighborhood. The old people before you were nice and lived to talk about. Be a little more like them. You could die today and your legacy could be. I managed to keep kids out of MY pool. Congratulations Maybe that can be your motto in heaven.

marinemom1208 avatar
Monica landreth
Community Member
1 year ago DotsCreated by potrace 1.15, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2017

It's not about being nice, it's about being SAFE. If the parents want their kids to swim they should get their own pool and stop trying to dump their kids off on neighbors and try to mooch what they have

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