subject: Find Houston Pool Builders Or Contractors [print this page] Choosing a contractor to build and install a swimming pool should be done withmuch attention. Choosing the wrong swimming pool builder could result in a frustrating and costly experience. It's all a matter of knowing the right questions to ask and having important information available up front.
EXPERIENCE
How long has the company you are considering been in business? Pool
companies that have been around a long time usually have a good reputation. However, there are exceptions. Always ask for references.
EXAMPLES
See if they have any pools under construction in Houston or anywhere
close to your residence.
REFERENCES/REFERRALS
It is also wise to ask your builder for a list of customer referrals in Houston or a nearby area.
INSURANCE
Always check their credentials, their membership in the APSP, as well as,
their licensing and insurance information.
PLACE OF BUSINESS
Look for a Houston, TX swimming pool builder with strong ties to the
community and a history of honesty and integrity.
MATERIALS
Make sure that the quality, brand, grade, weight, color and size of materials to be used are stated in the contract.
EQUIPMENT
What kinds of equipment are going to be installed? What is the estimated
cost of the pool maintenance equipment? Does the contractor use name
brand or generic equipment?
PERMITS
What kind of permits will you need to have a pool built on your property?
Will you need to pull and request permits in Houston for the construction,or is this something the contractor handles for you?
CONTRACT
A contract should include an appropriate date to start installation or
construction; a completion date with appropriate understandings regarding
delays; written understandings as to the consumer's responsibility regarding additional costs such as hitting solid rock or water, the moving of utility lines, etc.; the size, shape and equipment; total costs, including scheduled payments with the last payment, often the biggest determined by completion of the pool and your satisfaction.
POST BUILDING SERVICE
Do you provide service after completion? This is important because there
will be times you have questions regarding maintenance, and times you will
need your pool serviced.
STAYING WITHIN CONTRACTED PRICE
It is important to know that the pool builder will finish the project according to the agreed upon price. All projects have surprises and these surprises should not have to come at your expense. In the beginning, it is important to discuss any and all possibilities upfront.
CERTIFICATION
Check to see that any potential builder is certified by the National Spa and
Pool Institute (NSPI), including CBP (Certified Building Professional) and
CSP (Certified Service Professionals) certifications.
WATER CIRCULATION
This may seem to be a silly question, but did you know that there are many
"expert" pool builders who will install a pool without any regard to adequate water circulation. Your builder should be able to explain how and why he places his jets (pool returns) and skimmers. If he hasn't thought that far, you might consider another pool contractor/builder in the Houston area.
SUPPLIERS
Ask the pool builder to give you the names of at least three suppliers with
whom he has done business for a minimum of one year. Suppliers can be an
excellent source of referrals in your search for a pool builder. They can tell you which builders have excellent reputations and are financially sound.
PAYMENT
If using a financed loan, does the pool have a bank he uses and
recommends? If not, is it ok if you choose your own financing?
BANK INFORMATION
What is the bank the contractor uses? Is there a branch near Houston,
A pool builder's credibility is based on more than the installation of a terrific pool. His good credit is essential to protecting your investment.
INSTRUCTION
Will the pool builder school you on how to operate your pool once
completed? Will he show you how to use the controls, the pump system,
and how and when to add chemicals?
COMPLETION
Do not sign the completion certificate before the work is finished in
accordance with the terms of the contract. Be certain that the contract
contains all topics discussed and promises made
REPUTATION
Those are the basics for picking a good builder. The bottom line is good pool builders will never have anything to hide.
