Nov
19
Unless you’re a glutton for punishment, you’re more interested in hiring swimming pool builders than you’re interested in building a pool yourself. We don’t blame you — the work is nothing short of extensive. So here are some tips to help you find, select, and hire a swimming pool builder you can trust to complete the job the way that you want it done.
Selecting a Contractor
First things first — don’t make the mistake of thinking any contractor can build your pool. Swimming pool builders are separate from other contractors and they’re licensed as separate builders as well. Depending on your state laws, swimming pool contractors must be licensed to build a pool or perform repair work that costs over a specific dollar amount. In California for example, that amount is $500.
If you don’t want to go through the headache of finding a swimming pool builder yourself, you can work through a salesperson. Pool salespersons are legally allowed to negotiate, and sell contracts.
Of course recommendations and referrals from your friends and family can point you in the right direction too. Just be sure that you follow up on verifying the license or registration of each suggestion. With so many stories of trusting homeowners falling victim to unlicensed construction companies — following hunches or cheaper estimates is unacceptable. So try additional resources such as trade associations, builders’ exchange programs, or swimming pool associations as well.
Checking the Background
When you meet with your prospective custom pool builders, you should always verify that they’re who they say they are. Ask to see identification and verify that the names you’re given match the names listed on your list of licensed professionals. Conduct an interview explaining what you’d like and evaluate your prospects’ ability to perform. Then check referrals and references.
Your prospects should be more than happy to give you a list of references. Call each one and ask about their satisfaction. Ask if they got what they paid for, if there were any problems, and if so, how were they handled. You may narrow your list of proposals to three through this process alone.
Putting It in Writing
After you’ve selected a competent custom pool builder, put everything in writing! The contract that you and your selected swimming pool contractor sign should agree on the services provided (shape, size, and dimensions), associated costs, the kinds of materials used, crew schedules, and of course who’s going to clean-up. Don’t leave anything to chance and make changes to the agreement in writing as well. If you’re confused about anything, don’t sign. Have your lawyer review the contract first before signing a anything that you don’t fully understand.
