Swimply's Emergence Highlights Regulatory and Insurance Challenges in Peer-to-Peer Pool Rentals
Swimply, a U.S.-based app launched in 2019, enables users to rent private backyard swimming pools by the hour, fundamentally reshaping pool usage and home-sharing concepts. With over 15,000 pools listed in more than 150 cities as of 2024, the business has seen rapid growth, doubling its host base between 2023 and 2024, partly driven by inflation and demand for local activities. The platform primarily appeals to families, with 70% of guests being households seeking safe outdoor recreational options and fitness activities such as lap swimming.
The rise of Swimply presents novel challenges in insurance and regulatory compliance. Local governments are assessing whether private pool rentals fall under public pool regulations, resulting in varied approaches across states like New York, Minnesota, and North Carolina. Regulatory concerns focus on licensing, safety standards, and potential public health implications. Although regulatory issues affect a small fraction of hosts, the ambiguity highlights evolving complexities in managing short-term private space rentals.
Liability risks are a significant consideration for both hosts and users, as pools inherently pose drowning hazards without lifeguards present. Swimply provides hosts with $1 million in liability insurance, following a model akin to Airbnb, but exclusions exist, particularly when renters violate terms or consume alcohol. Industry experts advise hosts to consult with their home insurers about coverage extensions, emphasizing clear disclosures to avoid policy gaps related to rental activities.
The user experience includes safeguards such as mandatory neighbor notifications and etiquette agreements to mitigate community concerns on noise, parking, and safety. Pools undergo a 24-hour verification by Swimply’s Trust and Safety team, with an ongoing review system that removes poorly rated listings. These measures aim to balance the growth of this emerging shared economy model with local community standards and safety protocols.
Financially, Swimply enables hosts to generate significant income, with some earning up to $100,000 annually, transforming pool ownership economics beyond mere cost offsetting. The service also diversifies offerings, including pet-friendly pools and additional hospitality elements such as dining or entertainment, responding to varied customer preferences and expanding the experiential rental market.
Overall, Swimply’s model illustrates the intersection of technology-driven sharing platforms with regulatory and insurance landscapes, emphasizing the necessity for clear compliance frameworks and risk management strategies. The platform’s development reflects broader trends in the peer-to-peer rental sector, requiring ongoing adaptation by insurers, regulators, and property owners alike.