Building a Pool in Tampa? Carefully Review Your Contract

Are you planning on building a new pool in Tampa in the near future?

Are you already contacting and evaluating pool construction companies to help you create your backyard oasis?

If so, you’ll want to make sure of a few things.

Work with good people

First, you want to work with pool contractors who are communicative, trustworthy and reliable. You should be able to get that first impression by taking a look at their website, their customer reviews and ratings and by evaluating the communication you receive from them (like emails, voice messages and texts).

How people communicate is often a good indication of the quality of their company – and their work. And, when we say “their work” we mean the pool, harsdscaping and landscaping that you will be paying for and that will live in your yard for years to come.

Is the person you’re working with – whether it’s the owner, a pool designer or one of many of pool craftsman – polite? Are they responsive? Are they positive and considerate? They should be.

Ask to see the pool builder’s recent projects

Secondly, you should be able to review the pool installer’s recent work. Can they provide picture, videos or 3d designs of their projects?

It’s important to get a visual understanding of their work to make sure that it aligns with what they are telling you they can do – and – the vision you have for your yard.

Don’t be hesitant to ask for pictures and videos.

Review your contracts

Third, and very importantly, you want to carefully review the contracts and paperwork that are part of the process of building a pool in Tampa (or anywhere else in Florida for that matter).

The Florida Pool Association offers some great insight into this with an article called “It’s All In The Fine Print.”

Here is that insight:

“Reading contracts is an important part of building a pool.  Be sure you understand what you are paying for and what you will get.

So you are getting ready to build your backyard oasis and you couldn’t be more excited. What exactly does that all look like anyway?

First, make sure you carefully review your contract. Check off items as you go and be sure all equipment etc. is included in detail. The materials, cleanup, a timeline, and a payment schedule based on the value of completed work should be included.

Ask questions and have open lines of communication with your contractor. Progress should be consistently measured. Keep a file of the project and take photos periodically. When digging waterline utilities, many underground obstructions may not be able to be located like old sewer lines, septics, etc.

If you haven’t verified their license, do so right away.  Get a copy of their liability insurance and workers’ compensation policies as well.

Weather always plays a role. One day of rain can delay a week plus of work.  If there is a forecast for rain it can still affect progress.

Lastly, permits will be pulled by your contractor, and inspections scheduled as necessary.  A contractor cannot guarantee they can get an inspector to come out the moment they have completed a portion of the project that requires an inspection.

Keep in mind that with all these variables it’s key to understand the process. Read your contract, open a dialogue with your contractor, and measure their progress. The time it takes to build really does vary based on the scope of the project, your contractor, and other factors.”

Remember – there is a lot to consider when deciding to build a custom swimming pool in Tampa.

A quick note from the owner of Larco Pools – Mike Lara

“Building pools is a rewarding business. Our goal is to create pool perfection for our customers across Tampa Bay so they can enjoy their pools, have fun and create lasting memories with their family and friends. We look forward to speaking with you.” – Mike

Learn more about Larco Pools here.

Contact Mike today with questions:

Call 813-331-5060, send us an email or set up a time to talk to Mike using our calendar.

*Thank you to the Florida Pool Association for their information regarding contract reviews.