Imperial Pools, Inc. serving Champaign, Illinois explain how to choose a contractor for your 2018 pool project and say that the time is ideal to begin your research to help assure your pool is ready when the next swim season rolls around. When you’re making an investment in a swimming pool, you are looking at potentially one of the biggest investments — behind your home. Because of the price of an inground swimming pool you need to make certain you have found the best, most experienced and most reliable swimming pool contractor for your project.
Research is key to finding the best pool contractor for your project. Choosing the first contractor you find on the internet or in the phone book without doing your homework or checking references has the potential to leave you unpleasant surprises if the project doesn’t meet your expectations or if the pool contractor leaves town and you have no recourse if the project isn’t up to par.
Choose a contractor for your 2018 pool project
The swimming pool contractors from Imperial Pools, Inc. offer a checklist to help you find the best pool contractor for your project:
- Word of mouth is one of the best ways to find a great pool contractor… and to find one to avoid. Talk with friends and family and ask who constructed their pool and what kind of experience they had. Work with a pool contractor who has a great track record with people you know rather than relying solely on online recommendations.
- Ask any potential pool contractor for contact information about references from current and former clients. A reputable pool contractor will happily supply you with those. When you call the references — and make certain you do — ask: When did he build your pool? What kind of pool is it? Did he run into any problems during construction and what were the effects on the cost? What building material is your pool? Would you recommend him? Why would you recommend him?
- Check your state’s regulations on requirements for pool contractors. Do they need to be licensed? Is your potential pool contractor licensed?
- Does your pool contractor have sufficient liability insurance and has he shown you the certificate of insurance?
- Go with your gut. If you meet a contractor who appears to be — on paper — ideal but when you meet him you just don’t have a good feeling about him, thank him for his time and continue your search. Potential red flags could include: asking for cash payment, up front for the project; not supplying you with references; pressuring you to make a decision before you’re ready; lack of professionalism; providing an estimate that is substantially below any other contractors with whom you’ve met.
Starting your research now — at the end of the summer swim season, means you can take your time and thoroughly research potential pool contractors. Don’t rush the process. If you have your pool project started now, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy the process and still be able to swim next summer.