After purchasing the house that embodies all that you ever wished for in a home, you start living in it. The house provides every luxury you want, including an expansive kitchen, comfortable bedrooms, and an excellent space for hosting outdoor events. And the best part? A breathtaking pool rests in the backyard, waiting for you to plunge.
But what if that cherry on the top turns out to be bitter?
Before you buy a home, especially one with a pool, it’s critical to schedule a swimming pool inspection. Undoubtedly, a pool is an exciting prospect, but owners must be aware of concealed issues that will cost thousands of dollars.
Let’s explore why a swimming pool inspection isn’t just a “nice-to-have” but a must-do before you close the deal.
The Hidden Risks Lurking Beneath The Surface
At first glance, a pool appears immaculate and properly maintained. The water sparkles, and the tiles shine. But underneath? Chances are high that leaks, together with faulty wiring and structural issues, could pop up in unexpected ways.
Professional swimming pool systems contain numerous complicated elements that ordinary people normally cannot identify. According to NSPF.org, the average repair cost for a leak in an in-ground pool is between $500 and $1,500.
What Does A Swimming Pool Inspection Cover
Think of a swimming pool inspection as a wellness check-up for your pool. The inspection verifies proper functionality and safety adherence of all its components.
Professional pool inspectors assess three categories during their assessment:
Structure and Surface
- Cracks in the pool shell or deck.
- Staining or signs of algae.
- Tile condition and surface wear.
Plumbing and Filtration
- Pump functionality.
- Filter condition.
- Water flow and drainage.
Electrical Components
- Pool lights and GFCI outlets.
- Heaters, timers, and automation systems.
Safety Features
- Fencing and gates have become mandatory under local laws in some regions.
- Ladders, handrails, and pool covers.
- Anti-entrapment drainage devices as per the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act regulations.
The exhaustive inspection helps minimize expensive problems when you acquire your backyard paradise.
Why You Can’t Rely On A General Home Inspection
Most property buyers believe the general home inspection includes a pool assessment without realizing it does not. Standard home inspections typically do not check pools or provide extensive swimming pool inspections, although they might perform a brief visual review.
Standard home inspection services do not guarantee enough understanding of swimming pool systems among inspectors. Asking your dentist to check your eyesight would be similar to asking the general home inspector to check your pool. You need a specialized swimming pool inspection to uncover the issues only a pool pro can spot.
How A Pool Checklist Can Save You from Regret
Using a pool checklist allows prospective buyers to prepare questions for inspectors about the testing process. There are several important factors you should inspect or inquire about:
- Age of the pool and equipment.
- Date of last resurfacing.
- Water quality and maintenance history.
- Energy efficiency of pumps and heaters.
- Compliance with local safety codes.
If you suspect anything fishy, you can negotiate with the seller for repairs or walk out of the deal.
Real-Life Pool Inspection Nightmare: A Quick Story
A couple believed their new suburban house contained all that they ever needed. The saltwater pool at this property was the main reason they purchased the home.
Only after spending a few weeks in their new home did they find out about their pool pump failure. Underground leakage emerged later, requiring excavation of their entire backyard. The final bill? Over $8,000.
Had they ordered a swimming pool inspection, they could’ve caught those issues early and saved themselves a huge financial headache.
Bonus Benefits Of A Swimming Pool Inspection
Still on the fence? A pool inspection will protect homebuyers from needing extensive pool renovations. It can also:
- It helps you feel secure about the pool condition when considering a property purchase.
- It allows you to forecast future maintenance expenses.
- Suggest power-efficient pool pump replacements that eliminate utility costs without sacrificing performance.
Buying A Home? Don’t Forget the Pool
Many home buyers primarily concentrate on examining the kitchen, roof, and bathroom systems. However, a backyard pool should not go undetected in the inspection process. A proper swimming pool inspection could be the difference between poolside bliss and a financial nightmare.
Final Thoughts
Owning a pool provides luxury, although it comes with certain responsibilities. A pool inspection is not an overcautious action but a necessary step for getting reliable information. It’s being smart, informed, and ready for what lies ahead.
A pool in your dream home must not have any unexpected problems.
Buying a home with a pool? Don’t take chances.
Total House Inspection offers comprehensive swimming pool inspection services that go beyond the basics. Our certified inspectors conduct a thorough examination of pool equipment combined with safety compliance checks, so you get a comprehensive view of what you buy. Our services are available for booking today to bring peace of mind through proper inspections.
