How to hire a contractor to build swimming pool
You finally have decided to take the plunge and have a swimming pool installed in your back yard. Where do you start? Who do you call first? A good place to begin is with the people you know. Ask your family, friends and neighbors who own pools. Ask them about their pool-building experiences. Before talking to a pool design professional, think about how you and your family will use your pool so you can get the most out of your investment. Are you looking for a place to exercise? Will you be swimming laps or playing volleyball with family and friends? Do you have children at home who will use the pool? Or will you be floating during the day and entertaining in the evening? Along with the size and elevation of your yard, these all are things that your designer will want to know to determine which design will best suit your needs. Once you have some idea of the pool you want, it’s time to start calling pool companies. A reputable contractor will present everything in writing, including building specifications, equipment and pricing. Before you decide, consider these important factors: • How long has the pool company been in business? Ask for references. • Has the company been in business under another name? • Is it involved in pending legal action? • What is its standing with the Better Business Bureau? • How much and what types of insurance does it have? • Are there warranties and will you receive them in writing? • Will you be instructed in the operation of the pool? • Is there a service department to fix problems with the pool? Quality contractors will use specialists for different phases of pool construction and will have an adequate number of workers. They also will have workers’ compensation, general liability and auto insurance. Subcontractors should have the same coverage. Look for a company that has a good track record. The Better Business Bureau has information on-line about local companies or you can call your local chapter to see if there are outstanding complaints against a company. You want to sign on with a company that has been in operation for several years. The company should provide detailed specifications and have a storefront, with a showroom and staff. It’s important that the pool builder provides a follow-up after the sale. The company should provide service after the pool it built, not just while it is under construction. Simply selecting a pool isn’t the entire process. Consider options, such as hot tubs, outdoor kitchens, pergolas and the like. You might want to transform your back yard into your own resort. Planning and careful considerations can provide years of enjoyment for you, your family and your friends. Important notes • Think about how you plan to use the pool, where you want it, what design you think fits best with your thoughts.• Ask others about their pool-building experience, from who did the work for them to the final result.
• Call around for a reputable contactor to handle the job. Listen to what the contractor is offering and get everything in writing.
• Find out if the contractor does follow-up service and if he has a service department to handle it.
• Ask questions and get answers on any phase of the project.
