Q. We are thinking of selling our home and want to find any problems so that we can identify them upfront for potential buyers. We have interviewed three different home inspection services and feel comfortable with their assessments of our home, but not necessarily our pool. Should we hire a separate pool inspection service?
A. By hiring a licensed pool professional, you should receive an expert opinion of what may need to be repaired or replaced on your pool. This pool professional also should be knowledgeable about laws and regulations and can recommend ways to bring your pool closer to compliance.
For example, an older pool with a single main drain can be easily (and inexpensively) updated with a new anti-vortex cover to help prevent entrapment. Most licensed pool service companies charge about $100 to inspect and identify potential or existing problems before they end up costing time, aggravation and money.
A trained, licensed and educated pool service technician can inspect more than just the pool filter and water chemistry. This thorough procedure involves cleaning and inspecting the O-rings of the filter to ensure a proper fit and watertight seal of the filter housing. The cartridge or filter material itself is also checked to allow for maximum cleaning and filtration of your pool water and to eliminate any decrease in pool line pressure.
Outside equipment is inspected for leaks, and valves are lubricated to ensure smooth operation. Motors and timers are checked for proper electrical amperage and lubricated if needed. Safety equipment such as privacy fence gate latches, pool ropes and floats, and life rings with rope are inspected for any deterioration that may lead to a failure in use.
Some licensed pool contractors specialize in repair and renovation work. This may be the best place to start. A complete pool inspection with a written report of everything (both apparent and hidden) will help you get a handle on what the pool will need.
As to your interior finish, you may have some obligations to show that you have maintained proper chemical water balance and taken other steps (including brushing) to care for the pool surface properly.
