Why get a pool inspection? No homebuyer likes surprises after the purchase is complete. Even a simple swimming pool contains numerous pieces of equipment and hidden components, which can easily cause a host of expensive issues for a new homeowner. The good news is that proper maintenance and a thorough pool inspection can significantly reduce the risk of unexpected failures. Anyone purchasing a home with an existing swimming pool should understand the current condition of the pool they will own! As a buyer, you need the confidence that your pool is free from preexisting damage and is in perfect working order. In most cases a home inspector will not be qualified or have the experience and training required to inspect the pool and spa in a manner consistent with a trained swimming pool professional.
Commercial and Residential Swimming Pool Inspections
- We are on time, professional, and courteous.
- We are knowledgeable with expertise in swimming pool/spa construction and maintenance and equipment repair/installation.
- We are thorough and will cover all items possible.
- We don’t invent problems- the technician can provide education on any existing problems.
- We give you a report within 48 hours of inspection, including expected costs for needed repairs.
- We go over all the items with the prospective owner and realtors present if desired.
OUR SERVICES INCLUDES REVIEW OF THE FOLLOWING AND AN APPROXIMATE PRICE TO REPAIR:
EQUIPMENT | COSMETIC ISSUES | PLUMBING | OTHER |
Filter | Plaster condition | Check visible plumbing | Are code requirements met? |
Heater | Tile condition | Check deck drains-are they draining | Level of pool, length/width |
Pumps | Visible cracks in plaster, tile, coping, decking | Ladder/Grab Rail | |
Time Clock for Pumps | Coping condition | Check water pooling on deck | |
Backwash Valves | Paving/deck condition | Fill Line | |
Automatic Cleaning System | Mastic (deck-O-seal) condition | ELECTRICAL | Visible water condition |
Chlorine Generator (Salt System) | Waterfall and/or fountain condition, if applicable | Pool Light with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter, (GFCI) required by code | Pool Enclosure (wall or fence, gates)-up to code |
Visible signs of leakage in circulation system | Slide/diving board condition, if applicable | Bond wire present | |
Skimmer | Hot Tub/Spa condition, if applicable | ||
AutoFill if applicable | |||
Separation Tank ? | |||
Electronic/manual Control System |
Here are the most Frequently Asked Questions:
Can you tell me whether the structure is sound? We look to many indicators to see whether the structure is sound or not. Indicators such as cracks, the pool being out of level, hollow areas in the coping or bond beam, missing tiles and more. These indicators can help us determine if you need a structural engineer to come out.
Can you tell us whether the pool has a leak or not? Although our visit is a visual inspection and not a leak detection, we can see signs of a leak in the pool or spa. We would then be able to recommend if you need to get the plumbing system check by a professional leak detection company or not.
Will my pool need to be replastered? There are many signs as to whether or not a pool should be replastered. Such things as delamination, black algae, cracks in the pool or perhaps the pool surface is just old and rough. When swimming, your skin gets very soft and pliable; if the surface is rough or broken up, a child’s feet, for instance can get cut.
Is the filter big enough for the pool? We look to see if the water is clear, if the time set for the pump is standard for the size of the pool; or if the pressure showing on the filter gauge is normal for the pump size.
Is my pool out of level? The acceptable standard in the pool construction industry is ¼” level from end to end and side to side. Water will naturally level itself in any given vessel. We then see whether your pool is out of level, or perhaps has just a poor tile installation.
Is there enough drainage around the pool deck? We test the deck drains by running a hose (when available) and we can then inform you if your drains work, if they need to be cleaned out or if more drainage is needed.
What is the code for pool enclosure? The current State of California’s code for pool enclosures is as follows: “The pool must be enclosed with a five foot fence around the pool. Any gates leading into the pool area must open away from the pool area and be self-closing and latching. If the house is used as part of the enclosure, you must have alarms on the doors leading out into the pool area.” We check the enclosure and give recommendations if needed.
Is the light safe? Most pool lights are safe. However, California building code requirements have become strict on the use of GFCI’s on the pool lights. For that reason, we check the pool and/or spa lights to see if they are safe for swimmers, and make recommendations as needed.
Is a diving board dangerous? We look to see if the diving board meets the current safety codes for diving boards and give you our recommendations.