You’ve been wondering about a pool in your backyard. You will definitely need the services of a contractor to finish this project. But how would you select the right person for this job? To make sure of that, you need to hire a professional who meets the following criteria.
1. The contractor must have a valid and active license for the work. It is not enough if they have a license for the construction and repair of buildings, the license must also be specific for the construction of swimming pools.
2. In certain cases, you can also have your general contractor hire a pool specialist for you. In general, your project should have licensed and qualified professionals doing the work to ensure it is done correctly.
3. You must verify the license and registration provided by the contractor. You may also request other proof of identification to ensure that the person you have hired is the one to whom this license has been issued.
4. Pools can be of various categories, such as concrete, fiberglass, in-ground pools, etc. Regardless of the type of pool you want to build, ask for references. Be sure to check out the completed jobs and the ones currently in progress. This will help you get an idea of what you are getting into and get a first-hand idea of the quality of work you can expect from them.
5. As with other home construction jobs, get more than one offer and compare rates and other terms before deciding on your contractor.
6. Also check references from your friends, family, builders associations and other pool related associations for links to contractors.
7. Make sure you have read and clearly understand the terms of the contract. If necessary, get legal help to understand the terms. Never ignore the fine print. Understanding the full implications of the contract is essential to ensure your project is successfully completed and that you are clear on payment terms and any penalties.
8. Also check with your property developer or property manager and understand the added value the pool would provide to your home. Any home improvement is worth the effort only when it contributes to the monetary and aesthetic value of your home.
