Beware of falling hot tubs!

A HOT tub in the garden is the ultimate way to show your neighbours you’ve got cash to splash.

But it appears trying to scrimp on installation costs risks landing new owners in serious legal hot water.

That’s according to a crane-hire company which claims many buyers aren’t aware they need to budget at least an extra £1,600 to have qualified workers lift their tub into place.

Accidents involving rogue unlicensed and uninsured crane lifts, well-meaning friends, or ‘the man in the pub’ who says he can help, can result in criminal proceedings – with the possibility of manslaughter charges if there is a death.

With a typical spa weighing up to 1.5tonnes, unless there is easy access to the garden, a crane is essential on delivery day. But according to Crane Hire UK, buyers are increasingly using cut-price unlicensed crane operators through the internet unaware of the legal risks. ‘A botched crane lift can lead to property damage, injury or death; and without the correct paperwork, you can find yourself facing criminal charges,’ said a spokesman.

He cited a YouTube video showing one such accident in the US, where the crane over-extends and topples back on to the house.

Regulations enforced by the Health and Safety Executive mean cranes can only be operated by a fully qualified ‘appointed person’ and staff.

‘Card-carrying crane operations teams have years of combined experience. If you skimp on this vital cost, your dream purchase could turn into a nightmare,’ the spokesman said.