Whether you’re buying a new home with a pool or already own one, skipping a professional pool inspection can lead to some serious surprises down the road. Pools are complex structures, and any overlooked issue could mean expensive repairs, safety concerns, or even legal headaches.
This article will walk you through five risks of forgoing a pool inspection and highlight why this crucial step should never be skipped.
1. Hidden Structural Damage Can Drain Your Wallet
Beneath the shimmering surface of a pool could lie a host of structural problems, including cracks, leaks, or deteriorating materials. These aren’t always visible to the naked eye and can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs.
For instance, a small crack in the pool shell may go unnoticed, but it can expand over the seasons, causing leaks that increase water bills and risk damaging surrounding property. Inspection professionals use specialized tools like pressure tests and ground-penetrating equipment to identify these underlying issues before they spiral out of control.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to check the decking and coping around the pool, as both can crack or wear down, affecting the pool’s overall stability and aesthetics.
2. Unsafe Pool Barriers Pose Serious Risks
Did you know that many regions have specific regulations for pool fencing and barriers? These rules are in place to prevent accidents, particularly for children and pets. A missing or faulty barrier is a glaring safety hazard that can also land you in legal trouble if your pool doesn’t meet local standards.
A professional pool inspection ensures that gates, fences, and latches are up to code. For example, an inspector will confirm that the fences are the required height or that self-closing gates work as intended. Overlooking this step could result in fines or tragic accidents.
3. Faulty Equipment Could Lead to Malfunctions
A pool’s equipment is its beating heart, and issues with components like pumps, filters, and heaters can quickly ruin your pool experience. If a pump isn’t functioning properly, for instance, water circulation can stagnate, leading to unhygienic conditions like algae buildup.
Technicians performing a pool inspection will evaluate the condition of all equipment to ensure it’s working efficiently. They’ll also look for hidden wear-and-tear that might result in breakdowns during peak swimming season. Staying ahead with inspections can save you not just money but also the inconvenience of unexpected repairs.
4. Water Quality May Be Compromised
Crystal-clear water does not necessarily equal clean and safe water. Proper chemical balance and filtration are essential to maintain a healthy swimming environment. Without regular checks, issues like imbalanced pH levels, high chlorine, or bacterial contamination can arise, posing risks to skin, eyes, and overall health.
An inspection will analyze water quality, test the pool’s filtration system, and identify any potential red flags. Neglecting these aspects could leave swimmers exposed to unpleasant or even dangerous conditions.
5. You Might Be Taking on Hidden Liability
When purchasing a property with a pool, failing to conduct an inspection could leave you responsible for costly fixes or even legal disputes. Imagine signing the papers only to discover electrical faults, outdated safety measures, or drainage issues that the seller conveniently omitted.
A pool inspection protects buyers by identifying these problems before the sale is finalized, empowering you to negotiate repairs or adjust the asking price. Without it, you risk unwelcome surprises that could weigh heavily on your finances.
Don’t Sink Into Troubles – Act Now
Skipping a pool inspection might save time in the short term, but the long-term risks far outweigh the convenience. A professional inspection safeguards your peace of mind and ensures your pool remains a safe, enjoyable, and valuable asset.
If you’re considering a home with a pool or want to get your current pool examined, schedule an inspection with our expert team today. We’ll help you make a splash without the headaches!