If you’re in the market for a new pool, it’s important to choose the right installation company. Not all companies are created equal, and some will leave you with a better product than others. If you’re looking for the basic knowledge to start working on your new pool, here are ten tips for choosing the right pool installation company!
1. Check Builder’s Insurance
Make sure the company you choose is insured. This protects you in case of an accident or if the company doesn’t complete the job properly. Make sure to see a copy of their Liability Insurance and Workers Comp Insurance. This is important to know you are dealing with professionals. This will ensure that the staff member has gone through the necessary steps to ensure protection for you and their business.
2. Look at Samples of Their Work
Before hiring a company, take a look at their portfolio to see examples of their previous work. Check pictures and potentially go see samples of their work in person. This will give you an idea of the quality of work they’ll be putting into your project.
3. Ask About a Timeline
A good pool installation company will give you a timeline for the project, and a guarantee that the pool will be completed on time. They should also have a plan in place for unforeseen delays, such as bad weather. There is nothing worse than having an empty hole in your backyard or a finished pool that is cracked or leaking!
4. Get Multiple Quotes
It’s important to get multiple quotes before choosing the right pool installation company. This will help you to compare prices and find the best deal.
If you have a salesperson who makes you any promises about expenses or any other claims affecting the construction, purchase, or warranty of the pool, make sure you get that information in writing. If the builder is not comfortable putting these promises in writing, this is a red flag, indicating you need to look elsewhere for a company that’s actually going to stand by what it says it will do.
5. Get References
Ask the company for references from previous customers and call them. This will give you a sense of what it’s like to work with the company and if they completed the project on time and within budget. Another great question to ask is how many pools they’ve built in the past year. Some of those referrals should be from brand new pool owners to give you an idea about how the process went for them.
6. Ask About Warranties
Most pool installation companies offer a warranty on their products. Make sure to ask the company what their warranty is and what it covers. This will ensure you are covered in any case of malfunction or defect after the installation is complete.
7. Consider Their Communication
When choosing a pool installer, it’s normal to ask a lot of questions. Take this opportunity to evaluate the contractor not just on the answers to your questions, but how he or she answers. If the pool builder fails to answer your questions satisfactorily and does not strive to relieve your concerns, or speaks to you rudely or unprofessionally, consider finding a different builder.
8. Know Your Rights
According to the Better Business Bureau, a contract signed by the customer is not binding on the pool company until signed by an officer of the firm, and its terms are subject to change. The BBB further advises that, “potential customers should be aware that, if they sign a contract at the builder’s place of business but do not finance the pool, there may be no rescission or three-day cooling off period. The finance contract has a 3 day rescission clause, but this does not affect the pool contract. Therefore, customers wishing to cancel the contract may have to pay a penalty of up to $1,500.”
9. Trust Your Gut
First impressions are important, but they can be wrong. Don’t jump prematurely into business with a contractor based solely on a positive first impression. Visit the contractor’s place of business and observe how they conduct day-to-day business. This is a good indicator of how they will handle business with you. While interviewing and spending time with your potential contractor, watch out for red flags.
These warning signs could include: no official place of business, an unrealistically low estimate, requiring payment in cash or demanding a large deposit up front, pressure to decide quickly or to finance through the pool company or affiliated lender, or a general lack of professionalism in appearance or behavior. High-pressure sales tactics, scare tactics, and bullying are huge signs that you should walk away immediately.
10. Take Your Time
Don’t rush into your decision. Comparison shop. Get bids from competitor companies, but be careful not to get “Paralysis by Analysis”. This is a big project with hundreds of moving pieces. The right contractor will inspire confidence, and explain the good, bad, and the ugly. Relax and enjoy the process that ends with the pool of your dreams.
Great, you’ve decided on a builder! Before signing the contract, review the document thoroughly. Make sure it contains a full description of the work that will be done including materials, a timeline, a payment schedule, and warranty details. Verify payment arrangements up front, and if you’re financing, shop around to be sure you’re getting the best possible rates and fees. Avoid paying in cash and do not pay in full up front. At most, we suggest you pay in ⅓ increments.
Once the agreement is in place, make sure both you and the contractor initial any changes. This will prevent any misunderstandings or miscommunications in the future.
If you’re ready to consider your next project with Procare Landscapes, please contact us today!