Buying a House With a Pool? Check Out These Inspection Tips!

Families who want to purchase a home with a pool should know a few things before closing the deal. The pool can be one of the house’s greatest assets and improve its value tremendously. However, an improperly maintained pool in poor condition will quickly become a money sink that won’t go away.

We’re here to provide more information on pool inspections and what owners can expect from pre-purchase inspections.

What is pool inspection?

Before buyers close a deal on the house, they usually hire a home inspector to verify the condition. An exhaustive report can indicate any parts that require maintenance or repairs before the purchase can go through. Alternatively, the house’s condition can affect the price considerably, and a thorough inspection ensures that buyers know all the facts about their prospective purchase and can negotiate accordingly.

While a home inspector usually has excellent knowledge and experience with houses, they rarely have more than a simple checklist when inspecting pools. A dedicated pool inspector knows the ins and outs of various pool systems and can provide a more thorough assessment.

Can homeowners inspect the pool?

There are several pool types, each with complex pump and service systems to keep the water safe. Even homeowners who have owned a pool before might come across a different pool type they don’t have experience with and make an incorrect conclusion about its current state.

An experienced pool inspector will examine the system and document the pool structures, functions, and features.

Testing the pool equipment

A surefire way to inspect the pool is to run all the pumps and servicing equipment to check for possible faults. Inspectors can’t take the system apart and examine it more thoroughly. Still, a close-up visual inspection and testing usually tell them everything they need to know about its current state.

Pressure tests

A pool inspector should also perform or call for a pressure test to check for any leaks in the system. A pressure test can increase the inspection cost since it can be a labor- and time-intensive process. However, a pressure test can be vital because an undetected leak can quickly grow out of control after the purchase and require significant repairs.

Drain inspections

Pool inspections also commonly check the drainage systems for signs of clogging or lack of maintenance. Additionally, pool drain covers are under strict federal regulations, so it’s common practice for the seller to replace obsolete parts.

Inspecting the pool walls and floor

While some pools can be large and require a lot of time to inspect visually, checking the tiles for visible signs of damage is relatively quick and straightforward. The most important signs to look for are missing grout and broken tiles because they can indicate an underlying problem. It would help if you repaired loose tiles and sharp edges to improve safety.

Don’t forget the fence

If the pool has fencing, which most are required to have, the pool inspector will have to inspect it as well. Fences can be the only way to stop a child from entering the pool unattended, which is why you should ensure they don’t collapse unexpectedly.

After the inspection

A professional pool inspection might cost prospective buyers, but the information gathered can be indispensable. You can renegotiate the sale terms to ensure the pool is bought in perfect working condition or allow immediate repairs after the purchase.

If you need pool maintenance for your Phoenix, Arizona pool or spa, call us here at Serenity Pools. Our services include new installation set-up, professional maintenance of pools and spas, water features, and fountains. Call today! 480-370-0579.