The Tenants Who Built a Swimming Pool Indoors

This piece is part of our International Bizarre Landlord Stories series. Today’s story was first reported in the United States.

A group of tenants in Massachusetts decided that their flat was missing one thing – a pool. Instead of visiting the local leisure centre, they sealed the living room floor with plastic sheeting, brought in industrial pumps and filled the space with thousands of litres of water. The makeshift indoor pool quickly caused havoc for the building.

The discovery

Neighbours first noticed water dripping through ceilings into the apartments below. By the time the landlord was alerted, the property had suffered serious structural water damage. Photographs showed tenants lounging in inflatable chairs while the ‘pool’ took over the entire lounge area.

The aftermath

Police and fire crews were called to drain the water and secure the building. The tenants faced eviction and civil claims for the damage. The landlord faced an insurance battle after the property was deemed unsafe for habitation until extensive repairs were completed. Local news outlets quickly picked up the story, turning it into a viral talking point.

Lessons for landlords

• Act quickly on water complaints. Early signs of leaks should never be ignored.
• Reinforce tenancy agreements. Clauses against structural alteration can help landlords recover costs.
• Be prepared for bizarre risks. Even with thorough vetting, tenant behaviour can defy imagination.
• Ensure adequate insurance cover. Policies that include tenant-caused damage are vital.

Your experience

What is the most surprising or damaging tenant alteration you have ever discovered. Share your story below to help other landlords prepare for the unexpected.

Series so far

• The Tenant Who Kept a Tiger in a Harlem Apartment
• The Day a Cow Knocked at a Fourth-Floor Flat
• When a Tenant Found a Python in the Toilet
• The Tenants Who Turned a Flat into a Miniature Zoo
• The Room Filled With 200 Bottles of Urine
• The Tenant Who Took the Roof With Them
• The Apartment That Became a Cat Colony
• The Tenant Who Grew Mushrooms in the Sitting Room
• The Tenant Who Stabled a Horse Indoors

Background coverage: Boston.com report.