If you’ve decided to put a pool in at your home one of the first things you will need to do is find a pool builder to install it for you. For many, a swimming pool is a large investment so it’s important not to rush this process. It pays to do a bit of research to not only ensure that you are getting the best value for money but the pool of your dreams also. Here is what you should look for in a pool builder.
Positive reviews and testimonials
One of the easiest ways to get honest feedback about a business’s ethics and workmanship is by looking at the reviews and testimonials that have been left by previous customers of theirs. Whilst you can look at their reviews solely left on their website, it’s likely that they will only share the favorable ones. A quick internet search should reveal a companies testimonials, both good and bad. If most of the feedback is positive, this is a good indication that the company is trustworthy and does a satisfactory job. Recommendations from friends and family are equally as valid, they are unlikely to fabricate the truth.
A pool builder that completes their work to a high standard has nothing to hide and should willingly give you references if you ask for them. If the pool company doesn’t have a lot of references that doesn’t always mean that they aren’t good pool builders, but you should definitely do a little extra investigating to make sure they are above board. You can ask customers they have previously worked for some questions, including:
- Are you happy with your pool?
- Is there anything you weren’t happy with?
- Were they reliable, turn up on time, etc?
- Are they reputable?
- Would you recommend them to your family and friends?
- Were there any unexpected costs or delays?
Do they have extensive experience installing the type of pool you want?
There are three main types of swimming pools available and they include concrete pools, vinyl liner pools and fiberglass pools. To ensure your pool is built to the highest standard it is essential that you hire a builder that specializes in the pool type you want. Make sure they have a lot of experience building pools on varied site conditions.
Check if they are reputable
To confirm that the company you are hiring is reputable, there are a few things you should check for. The pool company should have a physical address, a landline number and a website. Make sure that a mobile number isn’t the only means of contacting them. They must be insured, licensed, and registered. Whether they offer generous warranties on their pools or not can give you an indication of the quality of the pool. Pool builders that are members of SPASA are held to high standards and ethics, this is something to look for when conducting your research. If you have a difficult site such as a sloping block, it is vitally important that you hire someone with advanced experience installing pools on varied terrains to get the best result.
How does their pricing compare to other companies?
Once you decided on the pool type you want and how much you can spend on a pool, it is a good idea to compare the price against other companies to ensure that you are getting value for money. If the pricing seems too good to be true, it probably is. Whilst it may be tempting to go down this route, be aware that the construction may be flawed, and it could potentially cost you more in repairs than it did to install it. Make sure that the pool builder you choose meets the criteria mentioned above to ensure your pool is structurally safe and will last for many years to come.
Once you have decided on a pool builder ensure that they give you a written quote and the price is inclusive and not subject to change. If not, you may have to forgo extra additional costs to install your pool. Your pool builder should have all essential information in writing and a contract will be drawn up. Both you and the builder must agree and sign to the terms stated in the contract. It should be finalized and you should be given a copy before construction begins.
Do they submit necessary paperwork on your behalf?
Your pool builder should take care of all the necessary paperwork that is required when installing a pool. Pool builders do this every day and they know exactly what needs to be lodged to get council planning permits quickly and efficiently. Once your pool builder has received the approvals back, your pool can start to be built. Additionally, a reputable company will also ensure that your pool fencing is compliant and meets national standards before construction ends.
Do they communicate well?
It is essential that your pool builder has an open line of communication for the very beginning. Not being able to contact your pool builder or them being short and blunt in their responses can leave you feeling stressed. A pool is a big investment and it is important that you are listened to and heard to ensure every aspect of your pool vision is brought to life. Before hiring a pool builder ask them if you will be included in the pool building process. They should be friendly and approachable and if you have any questions or concerns throughout the process you should be comfortable enough to ask them.
Steer clear of pool builders that:
- Want you to pay cash
- Requests a large upfront payment
- Is extremely cheap
- Pressures you and makes you uncomfortable
Taking the time to research now can save you a lot of headaches later on. You want to be sure you are spending your hard-earned money wisely and you are getting a superior quality pool that you can enjoy stress-free for many years to come.
Companies such as factorypoolsperth.com.au provide fiberglass pool installations that are second to none. If you have any questions about a pool installation for your home, get in touch with one such company and find a suitable pool for yourself!
