HOA and Commercial Pool Service: Requirements for Central Florida Properties

Managing a community or commercial pool is fundamentally different from maintaining a backyard pool. The stakes are higher—liability exposure, health department oversight, and the expectations of dozens or hundreds of users. Here's what HOA boards, property managers, and commercial pool operators in Central Florida need to know.

What Makes a Pool "Commercial" in Florida?

The Florida Department of Health classifies these as public/commercial pools:

• HOA/Condo community pools (even if "members only")
• Apartment complex pools
• Hotel and resort pools
• Gym and fitness center pools
• Water parks and splash pads
• Any pool with paid access

If multiple families or the public can use the pool, it's commercial—even if it's a small community with just 10 homes.

Florida Requirements for Commercial Pools

1. Florida Department of Health Permit

Every commercial pool needs an annual operating permit from the county health department. The permit requires:

• Initial and periodic inspections
• Proof of adequate filtration and circulation
• Safety equipment (ring buoy, shepherd's hook, first aid kit)
• Proper fencing and signage
• VGB-compliant drain covers

2. Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Requirement

Florida requires a CPO-certified individual to be responsible for each commercial pool. This person ensures:

• Daily water testing and chemical adjustment
• Proper documentation and record-keeping
• Safety equipment inspection
• Regulatory compliance

The CPO doesn't have to be on-site constantly, but must oversee operations. Most HOAs contract this to professional pool service companies.

3. Daily Water Testing

Commercial pools require testing at minimum twice daily when open:

• Free chlorine: 1.0-10.0 ppm (typically maintain 3-5 ppm)
• pH: 7.2-7.8
• Combined chlorine: Below 0.5 ppm
• Cyanuric acid: Below 100 ppm (outdoor pools)

All readings must be documented in a log book that's available for health inspectors.

4. Required Safety Equipment

• Ring buoy with attached rope
• Reaching pole (shepherd's hook)
• First aid kit in accessible location
• Telephone with emergency numbers posted
• Pool rules sign with depth markers
• "No Lifeguard" sign if unstaffed

5. Fencing and Access Control

• Minimum 4-foot fence surrounding pool area
• Self-closing, self-latching gates
• No direct access from parking areas or public walkways
• Access control (key cards, codes) for resident-only pools

Commercial Pool Service Costs in Central Florida

Common HOA Pool Problems in Central Florida

High Bather Load Issues

Community pools see far more use than residential pools. High swimmer traffic introduces contaminants (sunscreen, body oils, urine) that consume chlorine rapidly. Summer weekends often require chlorine checks every few hours.

Cyanuric Acid Buildup

Many commercial pools use stabilized chlorine (trichlor tablets) that adds cyanuric acid with each dose. Over time, CYA levels climb above 100 ppm, reducing chlorine effectiveness. The only fix is draining and diluting—expensive for large pools.

Our commercial pool service monitors CYA levels and uses liquid chlorine or cal-hypo when needed to prevent buildup.

Vandalism and Misuse

Glass bottles, furniture thrown in pools, gate damage, chemical room break-ins—we see it all. Good security, resident education, and prompt cleanup minimize problems.

Aging Equipment

Commercial pool equipment works harder than residential. Pumps, heaters, and chlorinators typically need replacement every 5-8 years. Budget planning is essential—a failed commercial heater can cost $5,000-$15,000 to replace.

What to Look for in a Commercial Pool Service Company

• CPO certification: Essential for regulatory compliance
• Commercial insurance: Higher liability limits than residential
• 24/7 emergency response: Pool closures cost resident goodwill
• Documentation systems: Digital logs accessible to board members
• Health department experience: Knows local inspectors and requirements
• Equipment service capability: Can handle repairs, not just chemicals

Transitioning Pool Service Companies

If you're unhappy with current service, switching providers requires careful planning:

1. Review current contract: Check termination notice requirements
2. Get pool assessment: Have new provider evaluate current conditions
3. Obtain documentation: Get all logs, permits, and equipment manuals from outgoing company
4. Plan chemical transition: Different companies use different chemical programs
5. Update health department: New CPO must be registered

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a pool "commercial" in Florida?

In Florida, any pool open to the public or multiple residents is considered commercial. This includes HOA pools, apartment pools, hotel pools, gym pools, and any pool that charges for access. These pools require Florida Department of Health permits and must meet stricter standards than residential pools.

Do HOA pools need a certified pool operator?

Yes. Florida requires all commercial pools, including HOA community pools, to have a Certified Pool Operator (CPO) responsible for the pool. This can be an HOA employee or a contracted pool service company. The CPO must ensure proper chemical levels, safety compliance, and documentation.

How much does commercial pool service cost in Florida?

Commercial pool service in Central Florida typically costs $400-$1,500/month depending on pool size, service frequency, and amenities. Most HOA pools require 3-7 visits per week. This includes chemical testing, adjustments, cleaning, and documentation for health department compliance.