If you’ve decided to dive into the wonderful world of owning a swimming pool, the next logical step is to find a swimming pool builder. (That is, right after you tell your DIY husband or wife to please put the shovel down, thank you very much.) While it’s always intimidating to hire a contractor for any big, expensive job, it’s not that bad if you stay focused on narrow it down to simple, easy steps.
1) Make sure any builder you use has certifications from the National Spa & Pool Institute (NSPI), including CBP (certified building professional) and CSP (certified service professional) certifications.
2) Always shop around and get different bids. Don’t be afraid to talk to people. Always ask for references. When you get them (and simply walk away if a builder can’t quickly produce references), actually call the people given as references and visit their pool if possible. Yes, I know, that’s a horrible hassle, but you’re not buying a box of doughnuts here.
3) Visit the showroom of the builder and ask some random questions, posing as a normal customer or someone who already owns a pool. Tell them you just bought a house with a pool and have no idea how to maintain it and what would they recommend. If the staff is courteous, knowledgable, and very helpful, that’s a good sign. If they’re clueless or otherwise can’t be bothered, beware the red flag.
4) Check with your local Better Business Bureau to make sure the company is in good standing.
5) Avoid any builder that requires a hugedown payment or any builder that pressures you into making a quick decision. You’re not buying a used car and any reputable builder will have plenty of business and won’t be desperate to push you into a deal, offering you special incentives or deals that are good for one week only, etc.
6) If any warranties are offered, always get it in writing before ever signing a contract. Don’t just take their word on it. When it’s time to sign the contract, go over it with a fine-toothed comb, just like you would any other contract that involves large sums of money exchanging hands.
