Are you looking for a new home with an outdoor space to make your living experience more entertaining and fun? Most homebuyers are on a similar search and often buy a house with a swimming pool in their backyard. Once you’ve found a home with a ready-made backyard resort, you must keep your eyes open for the red flags coming your way. This is why it’s better to take each step with extreme caution, and one cautious step is getting a pool inspection when buying a home.
A comprehensive professional pool inspection is the best way to know your pool’s condition and mechanical processes. If you leave the pool unchecked, in the future, it might expose major issues that will damage your pocket big time. During a pool inspection, different aspects of your pool are examined. These inspections cover everything from the pool’s structural integrity to the safety features. They ensure that your pool is thoroughly maintained and in its best condition.
In this blog, we’ll talk in detail about what is covered during a pool inspection, highlighting what you can expect from a pool inspection.
What to Look For During a Pool Inspection?
Pool Safety
First, a pool inspector ensures that your fun in the sun remains amusing and doesn’t become worrisome. For this, they check different safety aspects, such as whether electrical wires are not near the pool and whether the walkways around the pool are not imposing a hazard for slips and trips. They also check the fencing and latches (if the pool has one) and ensure they function correctly. Fencing must be of a certain height to prevent kids from getting into the pool unexpectedly.
Pool Interior
Most of the pools have vinyl liners inside them. This helps contain the water within the pool without making it seep out. If a tear appears in the liner, it will most likely need costly repairs. Other pools have different types of plaster finishing. If that’s the case with your pool, then the inspector checks the plaster to ensure there is no crack in the plaster, which might lead to a serious problem in the future. But, not all cracks are a reason to get worried, so the inspector will know which cracks are the red flags. Besides this, they will also inspect the functional or decorative tiling inside the pool.
Pool Lighting
Maybe the pool you’re buying has lights inside, as many of the pools do. During the pool inspection, the inspector ensures that these lighting functions properly, whether newer LED lights or old-fashioned light bulbs. They will also check for condensation in the pool lighting fixtures that might lead to mold and mildew growth in the future. If the bulbs are not functioning correctly, the inspector can also suggest the type of lightbulb you might need.
Tile and Decking Around Pool
The deck of your pool is the main character; a lot of action happens there. Swimming is indeed fun, but lounging by the pool is nonetheless. Kids and adults love to sit by the pool, dipping their toes while sitting on the edge. The edge of the pool is then the part of the inspection. The inspector inspects the condition of the tiles. They look for chips, cracks, or missing pieces that might pose safety hazards or indicate underlying structural issues. The inspector also checks the decking for signs of wear, such as:
- Fading
- Warping
- Unevenness
All of these indicate the need for repair or replacement to maintain safety and aesthetic appeal. Any evidence of water damage, such as mold, mildew, or discoloration, is carefully noted, as it could indicate leaks or drainage issues that need attention.
The Rest of the Yard
When inspecting the rest of the yard during a pool inspection, the inspector looks for factors that might impact the pool’s safety and functionality. This includes:
- Checking for proper drainage to prevent water pooling around the pool area
- Inspecting fencing and gates for security
- Compliance with safety regulations and evaluating the landscaping to ensure trees or plants are not too close to the pool. As this could lead to debris accumulation or root damage.
Additionally, the inspector looks for any potential trip hazards, proper placement of electrical outlets and lighting, and the overall condition of the yard. This helps them ensure it complements the pool’s maintenance and usability.
Pool Equipment
When inspecting the pool equipment during a pool inspection, the inspector examines several vital components to ensure they function properly and safely. This includes:
- Pump and Motor: Checking for proper operation, noise levels, and signs of wear or leaks.
- Filter System: Inspecting for cleanliness, proper installation, and effectively filtering debris.
- Heater: Verifying that it heats the water efficiently and checks for any leaks or malfunctions.
- Chemical Feeders: Ensuring they are dispensing the correct amounts of chemicals and are in good working condition.
- Plumbing and Valves: Looking for leaks, blockages, and proper flow.
- Electrical Systems: Checking for secure and safe connections and ensuring all electrical components are in good working order.
- Automatic Cleaners: Verifying their operation and checking for any parts that may need repair or replacement.
- Safety Features: Ensuring that safety features like covers, alarms, and fencing are in place and functioning correctly.
The inspector ensures that all equipment is not only operational but also safe and efficient, preventing potential issues and extending the lifespan of the pool.
Conclusion
A pool inspection typically costs between $125 and $250, depending on the size and complexity of the pool and the region. It might seem like an additional cost, but Investing in a professional pool inspection offers numerous benefits. It allows for the early detection of potential issues that prevent costly repairs in the future. With these inspections, safety is a top priority, as they ensure that all safety features, including fencing, gates, and electrical systems, are up to code and functioning correctly, reducing the risk of accidents. Regular inspections also extend the lifespan of pool equipment by identifying maintenance needs and preventing damage from neglect. Additionally, they help maintain proper chemical balance and filtration, ensuring clean and safe water for swimming. Ultimately, a pool inspection gives you peace of mind, enhances enjoyment, and boosts property value by keeping the pool in optimal condition.
Ensure your pool is safe and in top condition with Pro-Spect! Our expert pool inspections identify potential issues early, ensuring clean, safe, and enjoyable swimming for you and your family. Trust our certified inspectors to provide thorough evaluations and peace of mind. Schedule your pool inspection today with Pro-Spect Inspection Services—call us now or visit our website to book an appointment!