A checklist to have on hand when comparing bids from pool companies

We mentioned that we have been encountering some significantly different competition these days in regards to building pools and all that can go with them.

Traditional pool builders all seem to be booked, even into 2022. That’s not the case with Liquid Assets Pools. We have the crews and design teams that are ready to build your outdoor oasis. But perhaps some new companies are knocking on your door, trying to underbid their services. We’ve seen out of town contractors come into the market as well as landscape or building companies who are suddenly in the pool building business.

The pool building process is a complicated one. There are many factors for potential customers to weigh. We’re not going to do a comparison of the benefits of concrete pools over fiberglass or vinyl. We firmly believe concrete is the way to go for a pool that will last and bring years of enjoyment. Instead, we’re going to assume you’re getting bids from builders of concrete gunite pools. With that in mind, we give you the following checklist that may be of help in deciding who should ultimately build your pool.

Company Comparisons                                                                                                 Liquid Assets Pools      Pool Company A         Pool Company B

Does contractor readily offer a list of references?

Does the contractor have an A+ Accredited rating from the BBB?

Is the contractor a member of the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals?

Is the contractor’s bid detailed and clear?

Does the contractor carry $2 million of General Liability Insurance?

Does the contractor use 3D presentation software to visualize the pool plan?

Does the contractor readily provide a list of subcontractors for the job?

Does the contractor keep subcontractors’ Insurance Certificates on file?

Equipment Comparisons

Does the contractor specify brand names for equipment that will be used?

Does the contractor’s bid include a 5-Year Warranty on equipment?

Does the bid include a 2-horsepower pump for ample water flow?

Is the heater size comparable and appropriate for the pool size?

Proposed Pool Plan: Size Comparisons

Is the pool deck square footage comparable between bids?

Is the pool surface square footage comparable between bids?

Is the pool depth comparable between bids?

Material Comparisons

Is the coping material being used the same between bids?

Is the pool deck material being used the same between bids?

Is the plaster finish material being used comparable between bids?

Does the contractor use 3D software to help choose materials?

We recommend you print out this blog and keep it on hand when you’re in the process of comparing bids. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. And you just might find that the lowest bid may end up costing you more in the long run.