Searching for pool contractors near your home could be a daunting task, however after reading this article you should be able to hire the best pool contractor to build your dream swimming pool. Having said that, you should really take time to do your research because a custom pool is a significant investment for most homeowners.
Hiring a reputable pool contractor will save you headaches and disappointments. There is an endless supply of horrible stories about hiring a nightmare contractor who stops working after digging your backyard or doubles the price of the original estimate.
You do not want to hire that type of contractor. This guide is written to help you avoid having a bad experience when hiring a pool contractor.
Tips to Consider When Searching for the Best Pool Contractors Near You
Before you start the process, keep in mind searching for the best local pool builder is not that difficult, especially when the Internet technology is as pervasive as it is today. Here are a few tips to help you hire the best pool company for your project:
Decide on a Budget
Deciding on your pool budget before looking for potential bidders can really help you choose the contractor that you are most comfortable with. Once you know how much you can afford, start looking for financing options from your local credit union. Some pool contractors also have their own financing recommendations so make sure you ask around to find the best financing for you.
Start Searching for the Best Local Pool Contractors
Ask friends, family, neighbors, and all your acquaintances who have done similar project in the past. Local homeowners are very reliable sources to ask for references when looking for a local contractor. In addition, local contractors are more familiar with building codes in your city.
The Internet is also a great place to search for reputable and experienced pool builders near you. Our website lists reputable pool companies from different cities in the United States.
Check Their Past Pool Projects
Look for contractors that have done projects that you like to make sure they can build your pool. Good, reputable pool companies should have plenty of pictures of their work to show. Pay attention to the details like material quality, design, and client satisfaction. While reading reviews from past clients is important, you can also look for “bad signs” from your interactions with the contractors.
Do they return your call promptly? Are their company trucks and work uniform clean and professional? Are they on time to appointments? These are good indicators of their work quality.
Interview Multiple Pool Contractors
It is a good idea to interview more than three pool contractors and get multiple bids. By receiving multiple bids you will have a good idea about how much the project should cost. Compare the bids with their work and material quality. Usually, lower bids mean lower quality work and higher bids mean higher quality work.
Check Their References
Ask for references and contact them. You want to ask current and past clients to get a good idea about the contractors’ work and professionalism. Subcontractors are also good references when searching for good pool contractors. Check if they pay their subcontractors on time.
Ask if They are Licensed and Insured
Do a background check on these companies to make sure they are licensed and insured. It is very important to only hire a pool contractor that is licensed and adequately insured.
Check for their business license and insurance policy number then contact the insurance company to make sure it is valid and current. You could be reliable for any accident that happens during the completion of your project if you hire someone who is not licensed or insured.
It is also a good idea to check with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) if the company has formal complaints or pending legal actions that occur in the past.
Review the Bids
This is an important step in your hiring process when looking for pool contractors. Read each proposal carefully and compare everything, for example payment plan, maintenance cost, features, warranty, project timeline, and so on.
Finally, you want to confirm the project cost with the contractors so there is no big surprise in cost later. Reputable pool companies will work within their original estimate without going over too much.
Sign a Detailed Contract
Having a signed contract with the pool builder of your choice is a necessity. Make sure the contract is comprehensive and thorough to prevent future disagreements. Once the contract is signed, both parties will be responsible for any type of changes during the project construction. If you require additional work, then you must write and sign a new contract that includes the new material and labor cost.
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Check the Progress Often
Building a custom swimming pool is a big job so it is recommended that you communicate with the contractor and check the progress often. If you see something is not quite right, speak up immediately. Don’t wait until the end of the project to point out potential problems. It is recommended that you follow the progress daily to make sure everything is going well and according to plan.
Make Final Payment When the Project is Completed
Do a complete walk-through before you make the final payment. Make sure you are happy with the work and there is no issue concerning your new pool. A reputable contractor will give enough time for you to check the pool before they accept the final payment and give you the receipt.
Conclusion
A custom backyard pool adds tremendous value to your home, such as monetary, health, and entertainment value, therefore you should take the project seriously from start to finish. Use the tips above to choose the right pool contractor in your local area and come up with terms that keep you both accountable and happy.