Don’t Buy a Home Without a Pool Inspection
An inspection of your potential next home is a no-brainer. Most buyers hire a professional inspector to check out the house, inside and out, along with engineering, electrical and plumbing systems. But what about that pool in the back yard?
Pool Inspections Are Vital
When you buy a house that includes a pool, that pool needs attention from the inspector, too. Call in a pool professional to ensure that everything associated with the pool is functioning properly.
Inspectors will check the fencing and gates around the pool and deck area. The fence has to have enough height to keep children from climbing over and into the pool. The gates should close securely and open away from the pool. Pool entries like ladders must be checked, to ensure that they are stable.
Examining the Pool Itself
The last thing in the patio area to examine is the pool. He will find out who constructed it, when it was built and what materials were used. He will also measure the pool in order to determine how much water it will hold.
The pool surface will be examined for staining or cracks. Tile and grout are checked for any cracks. In vinyl pools, there should be no liner tears, and the bead must be sealed completely around the pool. The jets should all be properly functional.
Inspectors will check suction covers, main drain covers and other devices to block entrapment. Covers must be secure, and all systems for safety must be functioning properly.
If the pool has an auto-fill device, it should be working properly, too. Water level should stay within a half inch of the same level at both ends. All electrical connections must be checked, too.
Checking the Filter
After determining what kind of filter is in use, the inspector will make sure that it is in working condition. He will make sure that there is no rust in the motor or on the housing, says Pool Spa News. The pump size must be large enough to serve the size of the pool.
The heater should also be checked. It must be away from flammable materials. Your inspector will open the heater inspection panel, and check for nests from wild animals, and for rust. He will run the heater to make sure it works. Spas should be checked, to make sure that they empty and fill properly. The drain has to be VGB compliant.
Common Sense Reasons for Pool Inspections
Some pool inspections can be performed on new pools for homeowners, but many are performed for prospective buyers. You will want to know whether the pool and all its equipment was properly installed and serviced. Otherwise, it can mean a good deal of expense when you fill and use the pool for the first time.
Pool Inspection Reports
Your pool inspector’s report should clearly state what parts of the pool were checked and if there are any parts that could not be checked. If there are areas that need attention, that should be noted, along with what work needs to be done. Photos will help you understand all the pool parts to which your inspector has referred.
Recommendations are welcome at this time, so that you can save money on your pool, or make it more inviting. Pumps may be changed, and solar heat may be added. Your inspector can let you know if there are any rebates available from local utility companies for any equipment you might need. Your pool inspector should be happy to answer any questions you might have about your pool.
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