You already know that building a pool is big investment, so it is essential that you hire the right pool contractor to build a pool and yard where you will be very happy. You want someone that is honorable and who will deliver on what they say. Here are some red flags to look out for when choosing a company to build your pool.
Red Flag #1 – Relying on Personality Alone
You should not pick a pool builder solely because the salesperson is likable. Choosing the right company to build your pool is a big decision and you should vet any professional you hire. First, the contractor needs to be licensed, insured, and have worker’s compensation. They should be willing to show you proof of these items. They should also work out of a brick and mortar building as opposed to a van and have contact information where they can be reached. The contractor should also be willing to sign a written contract detailing payment schedule, start and stop dates, and materials, such as tile. The contractor should not have any outstanding complaints against them on the Better Business Bureau’s website and should be pleased to show its client recommendations.
Red Flag #2 – Beware of the Hard Sell
The client needs to be wary of a pool contractor who insists some feature is good and must be installed or is bad and must be left out. A responsible contractor will give the client the pros and cons of certain pool features such as spas, heating, lighting or salt systems, and let them decide.
Red Flag #3 – Badmouthing the competition
The client should also hesitate to take on a contractor who disparages other contractors or competitors. While there’s a chance that they just might be the best pool builder in the area and everyone else is substandard, badmouthing the competition is unattractive and unprofessional.
Red Flag #4 – Estimate is significantly different than other bids
When a bid is much higher than the others you’ve received, that would certainly send a red flag to you. And the same goes if the bid is much lower than others. This company may be trying to bid low just to get your business. However, you have to be very careful that you do not fall into the bait and switch or “bait and add on.” While it may look like a good cost at the moment, it most likely will cost you more with additional costs as the job progresses in the long run.
Red Flag # 5 – Pool Can Be Completed Too Rapidly
Another thing to be skeptical of is a contractor who promises to build the pool quickly. The shortest amount of time for a pool to be properly built is 6 weeks. However, most pools take between 8 and 12 weeks on average to complete.
Professional Pool Builder
If you are ready to avoid all these “red flags” and work with a company that has the experience and knowledge to help you create and build the pool and yard of your dreams, contact Infinite Pools online or call 951-354-9888. Infinite Pools practices a hands-on approach to every job and is fully involved at all stages of your project to ensure it is completed to our exceptionally high standards.