Top 5 Questions to Ask Swimming Pool Contractors

Posted by  on 5 May, 2014

Having someone you trust to install an important part of your home is the key to a successful renovation. Making the right choice can be the difference between a smooth installation and one full of headaches. Prepare a list of questions while vetting your local contractors for the best choice.

Ask for referrals

If you have any friends, family, or coworkers who have had pools installed in their homes, ask them for a referral. Be sure to talk to them about the experience, the service, and issues with the installation. This is a crucial step to understanding the service that you will receive. If possible, ask for names of specific contractors, especially if the service is outstanding. If you don’t know anyone with a pool, ask contractors for referrals. A contractor who’s not able to provide a referral is a red flag.

Know your needs

You don’t need to anticipate every detail of the installation, but consider certain features that you would your pool to have. This portion may require some research. For example, who will take care of landscaping, fencing and patios? If you want more than just a pool, is the contractor skilled in providing these auxiliary services? If not, who takes care of hiring subcontractors, and how will they divide the work?

No hidden fees

Ask the contractor in advance for a full estimate of the final cost. Ask them about ancillary or extra fees. Each contractor should be able to give you a rough estimate of the costs. Additionally, if you require financing, small firms are unlikely to provide that service. Larger companies may give the option, although you could consider other financial firms who provide loans for home improvement projects.

Going green

Your pool should be clean, but the installation can be eco-friendly. Salt-water pools are better for the skin, eyes, and the environment compared to chlorine pools. In addition, heating can be a significant ongoing cost. Consider switching to solar power to heating and generating energy.

Branding and industry connections

A brand name pool is backed by company reputation and resources. A faulty pool will at least have the manufacturer’s warranty. On the other hand a skilled contractor can also be a trustworthy builder. For contractors who build from scratch, it’s doubly important to ask them for referrals, particularly ones from installations of 5 or 10 years ago. This will show you how well the pool has held up over time.