{"id":2462,"date":"2023-08-25T17:25:09","date_gmt":"2023-08-26T00:25:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/?p=2462"},"modified":"2023-09-18T18:13:58","modified_gmt":"2023-09-19T01:13:58","slug":"how-to-choose-a-swimming-pool-builder","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-a-swimming-pool-builder\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Choose A Swimming Pool Builder"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/shutterstock_1991149709.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-2484\" src=\"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/shutterstock_1991149709.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/shutterstock_1991149709.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/shutterstock_1991149709-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/shutterstock_1991149709-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/shutterstock_1991149709-624x416.jpg 624w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/a>Finding the right contractor to work on your swimming pool is similar to hiring any contractor \u2013 it\u2019s an often-confusing process involving tons of uncertainty, doubt, and confusion as you try to identify someone who not only has the skills to nail your pool construction but also is someone you know you can trust to complete the job.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The good thing is that most pool jobs aren\u2019t life-and-death, in most cases, a pool installation won\u2019t cause your roof to collapse on you while you\u2019re sleeping. That\u2019s also the dark side of pool installation \u2013 the lack of serious health concerns means it\u2019s a ripe opportunity for sketchy contractors to sneak in and bluff their way to a pool job that\u2019s beyond them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So how do you save yourself the time, money, and energy that comes along with getting your pool built? Here\u2019s a simple guide.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swimming Pool Contractors: Just As Important As Others<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sure, a swimming pool is a luxury item \u2013 a construction project that exists solely for the pleasure and relaxation it provides \u2013 but that doesn\u2019t mean it isn\u2019t a significant investment.\u00a0 Ask anyone who\u2019s had a pool built \u2013 it\u2019s an often grueling process that takes days, weeks or months to complete.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The right contractor can not only make the entire process easier through professional skill and good communication, but they can also ensure that your investment yields dividends by delivering a pool that not only meets your expectations but also enhances your property&#8217;s aesthetic appeal and value.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.poolpricer.com\/how-to-choose-a-swimming-pool-contractor\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to Pool Pricer<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a well-constructed pool can add as much as 7% to your home&#8217;s value. That\u2019s nothing to sniff at!\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Makes A Good Pool Builder?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When selecting a swimming pool contractor, several factors should be at the forefront of your decision-making process:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Experience<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Experience is probably the most critical factor to consider, especially when it comes to pools. They&#8217;ve likely encountered and overcome every possible challenge that can arise when throwing a pool in, so they know how to deal with any issues quickly and effectively, decreasing costs and the time it takes to install your pool<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Reputation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Contracting is a local business, and your contractor\u2019s reputation will speak volumes to the work they deliver to people like you. Online reviews and references are invaluable resources when assessing a contractor&#8217;s reputation. Look on Google and on their personal website for testimonials or other reviews straight from the horse\u2019s mouth.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Licenses and Insurance<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: It&#8217;s essential to verify that your contractor is licensed and insured. In most states, this is a legal requirement \u2013 and knowingly hiring an unlicensed contractor can put you in hot water legally. In states where it\u2019s not a legal requirement, it\u2019s still advisable to ensure these two pieces are in place to protect you and your home.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Portfolio<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: A contractor&#8217;s portfolio provides insight into the quality and style of their work. Especially considering the high aesthetic needs affixed to pools, having someone who can fit the style you\u2019re going for is important.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Communication<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Last but certainly not least is effective communication. Your contractor should be responsive, open to your ideas, and able to articulate their plans clearly. This is perhaps the most underrated aspect of an effective contractor and can be the difference between a good and a great pool install.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Where to Find Pool Builders?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finding the right pool contractor starts with knowing where to look. Here are a few places to start your search:<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Online<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Websites like <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HomeAdvisor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.angieslist.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Angie&#8217;s List<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> provide directories of contractors in your area, complete with ratings and reviews. This is a great place to start your search \u2013 but it always requires a little more legwork to verify their quality.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Referrals<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Ask friends, family, or neighbors who have recently installed pools for their recommendations. Chances are that <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">someone<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in your community has a pool contractor they can trust.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Local Home Shows<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Home shows are a great place to meet contractors face-to-face and see examples of their work in real-time. These are rare, so stay abreast of any coming to you locally.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pool Stores<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Local pool stores often have relationships with contractors and can provide recommendations. Be wary, these relationships often come with jacked-up prices as they\u2019ve got to cover their own referral costs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to Negotiate the Best Price?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Negotiating the best price with your pool contractor requires a balance between ensuring you get a fair deal and understanding that lower costs can sometimes mean lower quality. Here are some tips:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Get Multiple Quotes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This will give you a sense of the average cost and provide leverage in negotiations. By having a baseline of understanding what it will cost, you can understand who is trying to take advantage of you.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Understand What&#8217;s Included<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Make sure you know exactly what each quote includes, down to the color tile on the walls. This will prevent surprises down the line and help you compare quotes accurately as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Be Upfront About Your Budget<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Letting contractors know your budget from the start can help them tailor their proposals to meet your financial needs. You can be as firm as you need to be, as most contractors want the work and will be flexible to book your job.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Don&#8217;t Be Afraid to Ask<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If a quote seems high, don&#8217;t be afraid to ask the contractor to explain the costs. There may be areas where you can compromise to lower the price while still getting the same quality.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Selection Process<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Initial Research<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Begin by conducting thorough research on local contractors. Examine their websites, review their portfolios, and read online reviews. According to a survey by HomeAdvisor, homeowners on average reach out to four contractors before making a decision.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interviews<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After narrowing down your options, schedule interviews with each contractor. This is your chance to ask detailed questions about their process, timeline, and costs. Pay attention to their communication style and level of interest in your project.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Quotes<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following the interviews, request a detailed quote from each contractor. The quote should include all costs, such as materials, labor, and any potential extras. This will enable you to compare contractors effectively.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.homeadvisor.com\/cost\/swimming-pools-hot-tubs-and-saunas\/build-a-swimming-pool\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to HomeAdvisor,<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the average cost to build a pool is $35,000, with most homeowners spending between $28,000 and $55,000. Pay attention to this ballpark, as it\u2019ll help you anchor a price and establish boundaries.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decision<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With all the information gathered, it&#8217;s time to make your decision. Remember, the cheapest quote isn&#8217;t always the best choice. Consider all factors, including experience, reputation, and your impressions from the interview!<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In many cases, it\u2019s worth it to pay more for a contractor whom you can trust. You\u2019re already spending thousands on something that is frankly not essential to your life, so why not spend a few more on the right person?<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What To Do If Your Pool Contractor Doesn\u2019t Meet Expectations<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">So what if, despite all your best efforts, you still end up with a pool contractor who has no idea what they\u2019re doing, or worse yet, knows what they\u2019re doing (when it comes to taking your money and running)?<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In many cases, you\u2019re left with a half-finished pool \u2013 usually no more than just a big hole with a mound of dirt next to it \u2013 in your backyard, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">and<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> you\u2019re often out thousands of dollars.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In that case, it\u2019s important you not only report your contractor to your state\u2019s regulatory agency \u2013 like the CSLB in California \u2013 so that you can begin the process of reclaiming your funds, and flagging this contractor so no one else gets burned like you did.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once the contractor is reported to the regulatory agency in your state, usually they will also have a pathway to open a civil suit against the contractor. In this situation, you\u2019d take the contractor to small claims court to reclaim the money you sunk into the contract that was not fulfilled by the contractor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once a judge has ruled in your favor and your contractor is legally required to pay you back for your costs, this is where your journey ends, unless there are serious consequences to the project like bodily injury or death. In that situation, you will probably be involved in a criminal case against the contractor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Finding the right contractor to work on your swimming pool is similar to hiring any contractor \u2013 it\u2019s an often-confusing process involving tons of uncertainty, doubt, and confusion as you try to identify someone who not only has the skills to nail your pool construction but also is someone you know you can trust to &#8230; <a title=\"How to Choose A Swimming Pool Builder\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/how-to-choose-a-swimming-pool-builder\/\" aria-label=\"Read more about How to Choose A Swimming Pool Builder\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[220],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2462","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-contractor-business"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2462","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2462"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2462\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2462"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2462"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/contractorslicensingschools.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2462"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}