Check out these five tips to help you find a trustworthy, reputable pool installer:
1. Research the Company
Not all pool installers are created equal, which is why it’s important to thoroughly research the companies you’re considering before you make your final choice.
Make sure you confirm that:
- They have a permanent physical location, whether a showroom or a dedicated pool store. Pay them a visit so you can see the products available and meet the staff before signing any contracts.
- They’re a member of the Pool and Hot Tub Council of Canada (PHCC). A member like Total Tech Pools promises to abide by the Council’s Code of Ethics and perform the highest levels of workmanship.
- They’re in good standing with the Better Business Bureau. A BBB profile will include current and resolved complaints, customer reviews, and the company’s current rating.
Total Tech Pools is a BBB-accredited business and maintains an A+ rating.
2. Confirm They Have Worker’s Compensation and General Liability Insurance
If something goes wrong while a pool installer or one of their staff is working on your pool – whether they’re injured or your home is damaged – you can be held liable if the installer doesn’t have valid insurance.
Make sure you work with a pool installer who can prove they have two kinds of coverage:
- General Liability Insurance, which will protect your home or property if the installer causes damage while working on your pool.
- Workers Compensation, which provides coverage if an installer or one of their staff is injured while on the job.
3. Check References
Some pool installers will be able to give you a list of references. You don’t need to check all of them, though you should pick a few – especially those with needs resembling yours.
Questions to ask can include:
- What type of pool was installed?
- Was the work completed on time?
- Were there any surprises along the way? If so, how did the installer deal with them?
- Were the installers considerate and courteous about your needs?
Don’t forget to check out third-party review sites like HomeStars. These sources give you insight into what real customers have to say about the companies they’ve worked with.
4. Obtain Several Estimates
You should obtain written estimates from different companies to compare:
- Prices each pool installer offers you.
- The materials each company will use.
- The level of workmanship and service they provide.
As you’re weighing your options, remember that the cheapest estimate is rarely the best. Installing a new pool is a major investment. You need to make your decision based on the standards of workmanship an installer will provide so that saving a few dollars now doesn’t cost you more down the road.
5. Trust Your Gut
Does something seem off about a pool installer you met with? Whether big or small, trust your gut if you feel uneasy.
Red flags to watch out for include:
- Providing unrealistically low estimates.
- Pushing you to make your decision hastily.
- Pressuring you to secure financing through the pool company or an associated partner.
- Asking for upfront payment – in part or in full – in cash.
- Being generally unprofessional in their appearance, behaviour, and attitude.
Whatever size or type you envision, your pool is an important long-term investment. Choosing the right installer is the best way to guarantee you, your family, and your friends will enjoy making the most out of it for years to come!
Is a new pool on your mind? Schedule a free in-home consultation today to discuss the vision you have for your backyard!
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