Will I Need to Find Other Contractors to Complete My Pool Project?

Posted on by ubizzium

Most inground pool installations involve multiple types of work.  Beyond building the pool, most projects need electrical wiring, plumbing (if a gas heater is installed), paving, fencing, and landscape restoration.  In some cases, the project may also require retaining walls, carpentry, landscape design, masonry work, and landscape lighting.

The type of pool builder you choose will determine if you will be responsible for finding other contractors.  Some builders simply install the pool.  This type of builder is good for homeowners looking to do some of the work themselves and save some money.  If you prefer a more turn-key project, where you communicate with one contractor and their team, you should consider working with a full-service, design-build type pool builder.  This type of builder should be able to perform all aspects of the project or bring in a trusted partner to complete the pieces they cannot.

There are some things you should ask for, no matter what type of builder you choose:

  • Proof of insurance certificate – not only from the pool builder but any other contractors who will be performing work on your site.
  • Liability amount of insurance – this should be greater than the value of your property, in case there is any damage.
  • Workers compensation insurance – this will protect you from work that is done incorrectly, and if a worker is injured on the site while working on your project.

No matter which type of contractor you decide to work with, there are a few things that you as the homeowner, should not be expected to handle.  The homeowner should not be asked to call the diggers hotline to get the underground utilities marked.  You calling in to have the lines marked, makes you liable for any damage to the underground utilities.  When the pool builder calls in, they assume the liability.  The homeowner also should not be asked to pull building permits for the project.  If a contractor asks you to pull your own permits, it could mean they don’t have a valid contractor’s license or they are trying to shift liability for their work to the you.  If your pool builder asks you to do either of these, you may want to reevaluate your chosen builder.

Installing an inground pool should be an easy process.   When you work with the right builder, the project is completed smoothly (with as few headaches as possible for a construction project).  Choose wisely.