What every pool buyer should know before hiring a

builder.

As in any decision it is best to have all the information possible.  Your new oasis will be here for years to come and you will only be as happy as the quality of decision you make.  If you are like most people and have never built a pool before, you may not know what is important to know.   This buyer’s guide will help arm you with the right questions.

 

 

1. Is the builder licensed to build?

 

                                  Did you that in some states your builder does not need ANY experience of any kind to be a licensed pool contractor.  Georgia is one of these states.  This means that literally anyone could be building your pool if you’re not careful.  In Florida, South Carolina and North Carolina  a contractors license is required.   Although a builder in Georgia will not have a contractors license, they should have an occupational license for your county, if not they may be planning to be around long.

 

2. How long have you been in business and how long have you been in business in your current name?

                

                                  It is important to know if the builder has any issues that have been swept under the rug by incorporating under a different name.  Typically, bad builders will weed themselves out over time.   So those that have been in business 10 more years are fairly safe while those that have been in business for less that 5 are risky.

 

3.  Does the builder carry workers compensation and liability insurance?

 

                                  ALL pool builders should  have Worker’s Compensation Insurance and General Liability Insurance.  Ask them if they will provide you a copy of their insurance with You listed as the Named Insured.  If they cannot provided this, then you will be responsible for any jobsite accidents.   You should verify coverage and when it is valid. 

 

4.  How many references will you provide me?

 

                                  References are the best way for you to know what to expect.   If  the builder doesn’t have many, it will likely  suggest that the builder either has no experience or unhappy customers.  25 references is a good rule of thumb to start.  If they have a reference list, can you visit the pools and meet the customers?  Remember, this is especially important where there is no licensing because it is your only proof of the builder’s competence level. 

 

5. Are you a current member of the APSP and do you attend yearly education seminars?

 

                 The APSP is an acronym for the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals.  Its like becoming a REALTOR to a real estate agent.  Its not required, but hard to be taken serious if you are not participating member.  In the pool and spa industry, it is where a majority of the teaching, training, innovation and certification come from.  Again, this will be particularly important in the state of Georgia where builder are not required to demonstrate any level of competency before becoming a pool contractor.  (Special Note:  In June of 2008 contractors of Residential and Commercial building will be required to be licensed, but swimming pool contractors  STILL DO NOT NEED TO BE LICENCSED!)

 

6. Does the builder have a place of business?

 

                                  A quality, long term builder will a place of business or showroom.   Be vary of those who do not have a permanent location, unless you have reveiwed extensive references from the builder.

 

7. Has the builder ever declared bankruptcy or gone out of business?

 

                                  Obviously, this is important to know.  If it has happened before, it will be extremely important to know why and how.  Regardless, take extreme caution in dealing with any builder that has had this problem.