Spring Pool Builders
QUESTIONS ANSWERED...

What Are the Top Five Tips for Hiring the Right Pool Builder 

Answer...

Pool building is not an overnight affair; you can’t just wake up and decide to hire someone to build your pool. It requires prior planning, assessing the capabilities of the builders, whether they were recommended to you or you found them online; then getting on a clear platform between you and the builder, so they build the pool of your liking yet the best quality. To get the best, therefore, you need to consider some factors before hiring a pool builder.  

Factors to consider before hiring a pool builder 

#1 Expertise 

There is every need to emphasize the importance of having a professional do your pool. Pools can be quite dangerous when not well done causing accidents to you and your loved ones. To avoid these instances, therefore, take the time to get the best builder and be careful to check their qualifications before you get them to start on your pool.  

#2 Reputation 

A good reputation precedes someone. A pool builder, who has a record of quality and satisfactory work, will not even have much explaining to do. The work done will speak for itself, not to mention the peace of mind you will have since you will not need to worry about the outcome of your pool.  

#3 Prior projects  

Ask for their resume, and view their previous projects. They could also show you pictures of the projects; say before, during the process, and the results. However, to even earn their confidence more speak to the owners of the pools and enquire of their experience with the pool. This facilitates your decision making; whether to hire the builder or not, a physical visit to the pool may increase your confidence as well.  

#4 Consumer needs  

The beauty and the defining point of any business undertaking are being able to meet client’s needs. Does the builder care about you? Present your picture of your desired pool, and talk to them about what you would like. A good builder will listen and advise where necessary; making improvements and correction so as to ensure satisfaction and contentment with the work. There isn't any need to build a pool that you will not use or that which you don’t like. Therefore, go for a builder who cares about the results as well as satisfying your needs.  

#5 Contract  

Upon choosing the builder, have them draw up a contract. This will assure you of their commitment and facilitate them upholding their end of the deal. They will also be responsible for the outcome of the projects hence being bound by a contract will ensure that they give their all to ensure the best results. The contract could also stipulate the payment details, where you could pay a different percentage at different stages of completion of the pool depending on the agreement.  

There are plenty of pool builders; all you need is to choose the right person to actualize your dream. Take the time to make the decision; don’t be in a rush if you need quality services.

What Are the Top 10 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Pool Contractor

Answer...

When building a pool, you wish to hire a company that will do an excellent job within stipulated time without causing you any stress. You always need to check various aspects of a contractor to avoid shoddy work and encountering a stressful ordeal. You do not want to sign a fraud contract or have your project delayed for various reasons and having your backyard unusable. Although they do not often occur, these reasons can scare anyone from building a pool. However, here is a guide on the top ten avoidable mistakes that homeowners make when hiring a pool builder.  

1. Failure to do thorough research on pool contractors 

You can encounter some problems even with an experienced and trustworthy pool builder. While researching on a pool can consuming time, failure to do so can lead to future problems. You need to track down pool contractors, check their references, and compare estimates and offers among other important aspects of pool builders. See the contractor’s achievement on projects similar to yours. Finding the right pool company makes the process much easier and is worth the effort.  

2. Micromanaging 

Once you hire a reputable contractor, avoid looking over their shoulder while they carry out their job. However, do not shy from asking questions, particularly when you have concerns about the proceedings of the work. Avoid nitpicking as much as you can as this will only stress you and strain your relationship with your contractor.  

3. Failing to read the fine print 

Reading the fine print is boring, but it is important that you know and understand some fine print. Always read the contract before signing it. Understand what the contract stipulates about payment and payment schedules. It is evident that you will purchase some products for the pool. Always read the warranties that come with all the products you are considering for the pool.  

4. Bargain hunting 

You need to stick to your budget and avoid shortcuts. It is very tempting to go for the lowest bid. The important thing is to understand what value you are getting for the cost. Check that the value matches the workmanship, materials used, and the warranty. Hiring the cheapest contractor and settling for sub standard material will cost you more money in the long term. Have a realistic approach and build the best quality pool you can afford.  

5. Settling for oral agreements 

One of the common mistakes property owners make when hiring pool builders is failing to get everything in writing. The contract should entail every aspect of the pool building including a detailed description of the project, plans, scope of work, materials, quantities, payment schedules and the estimated commencement and completion dates for the projects. A contractor might explain all these aspects but ensure you have them in writing. Ensure you get a written warranty that clearly spells out what it covers, what it does not cover, and how long the warranty covers the project. The written document should also specify the handling of changes in the work plan and the protocol for cancellation if necessary.  

6. Signing a contract without fully comprehending its contents 

First, you need to know there is no dumb question and all your queries are valid. If anything is unclear in the contract, consult and have the contractor explain all your concerns before proceeding with the project. Lack of clarity may arise from insufficient details or your misunderstanding of the terms of the contract. Either way, it is okay to ask. You would rather understand now than in the future when it may incur additional cost or when it results in change orders.  

7. Large down payment 

The law stipulates the amount of money a contractor can ask for before commencing a project. A contractor that asks for a large down payment may lack sufficient money for overheads or payment of materials. With contractual work, this is not a good indication.  

8. Lack of clarity in your targets 

You need to spell out clearly what you want to achieve in your project. Let your contractor understand how you want the pool to appear on completion. Specify the material and the mode of installations you have in mind even during the project. Be very specific how you want your pool to appear. Making changes might result in a change order, which increases the cost of your pool. However, this is better than having something you do not desire.  

9. Failure to check for proper documentation 

You should check several documents before hiring a contractor. The first thing is to check the contractor’s license status. Confirm that the contractor has all the necessary insurance including worker’s compensation cover and general liability insurance. A reputable pool company will have a permanent physical address and a published phone number.  

10. Failure to request a waiver of lien

Contractors and subcontractors have a legal right to file a lien against your property whenever you fail to fulfill on the agreed payments. This can incur legal issues if you pay the pool builder and he or she fails to pay the subcontractor. The contractors can file a lien on the property you own and demand payment. When you obtain a waiver of lien from the contractor and the subcontractors, you protect yourself against this problem.