Dreaming of a Backyard Oasis This Summer?

Here’s how to hire the right pool company!

Spring is here, and the warmer weather may have you looking at your backyard with designs on creating a pool or recreation area. If you’re ready to take the plunge and have a pool or spa installed, here are some suggestions that will help you get started.

• What does your dream pool look like? Traditional size or a custom shape? Concrete or fiberglass?Fancy lanai tile or backyard design? Thinking through the basic ideas will help you discover the best contractor for the job. For example, if you’re interested in a rock wall feature or specialty lighting, you’ll want to focus your search on vendors who specialize in those areas. You want a pool builder who is comfortable producing the type of work that is similar to what you are looking for.
• Talk to your friends, family and neighbors who have pools that you like!Ask for their references and recommendations. Chances are you’ll probably get an earful of what to do and NOT to do, and that’s exactly what you need. Listen up and take notes because this advice will likely save you time and money. And asking your Facebook friends for references is a fast way to get a working shortlist of who to contact and who to avoid.
• Now take your research online. Chances are that by now, some of the same contractor names have already come up a few times. When reviewing a pool company’s website, you’ll notice that most have gorgeous photo galleries of stunning pool designs that would be great for a celebrity with an unlimited budget. But make sure to see examples of the pools that look more in line with your tastes and budget. Also: check for recent customer testimonials.
• Cross reference your shortlist with a referral services like Angie’s List or Home Advisor. Yelp is also another great place to hear what customers are saying about their experience with the pool company.Finally, always check a contractor’s listing with the Better Business Bureau, to see if any customer complaints or other issues have been filed.
• Contact your top three or four vendors. Triple-bidding is a standard practice in the business world and a great model for a large project like this. Arrange to meet with the vendor in person, at your home, so they can gather information from you, explain their process to you and take measurements of your property.
• Some Questions to Ask:
  • Who will be my daily contact during the build? How long has he or she worked for you?
  • Do you use subcontractors? How long have you worked with them?
  • How do you typically communicate with your clients as the project proceeds?
  • Who will I contact with questions, concerns or in the event that no one shows up.
  • When can you start, and can you give me a timeline for completion?
  • What does a typical day on the job look like?
  • What sort of equipment will you be using for the job, and what’s involved in getting it to where it needs to be?
  • Will you replace any lawn or landscaping that is displaced?
  • Can you handle all permits and inspections? Timing for each?
  • What does the payment schedule look like? Will I have to pay for work ahead of time or only on completion?

For more information about working with a pool contractor, please contact us at info@dickandkarla.com. We’d be happy to give you a recommendation.

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