When you own a property with a pool, you need to ensure that it is functional, safe, and in good condition. For this, you need to do more than just regularly maintain it. You shall schedule a pool inspection that comprehensively evaluates every aspect. If you think that your home inspection will cover it all, then you are mistaken. Typically, a home inspection only notes obvious issues like the visible damage related to the pool. It doesn’t carry out a detailed assessment that caters to its structural integrity, equipment functionality, safety features, water quality, etc. This is why it is better to schedule an exclusive pool inspection.

It might seem like an additional expense at first, but in the end, it will be worth it. The cost of a pool inspection widely varies based on different factors like the pool’s size, complexity, location, etc. Generally, a pool inspection can cost anywhere from $125 to $300. The price can exceed if you need to take additional services like water quality testing or detailed assessment of specialized equipment. It might take the inspector a couple of hours to complete a pool inspection, but you need to be sure that they have evaluated every aspect. For this, a comprehensive inspection checklist always helps.

In this blog, we highlight the key areas of a pool inspection – an inspection checklist that will help you through the process.

Exterior Inspection

The very first factor that an inspector needs to inspect is the pool’s exterior. From the pool’s foundation to the nearby gates, there are many areas that the inspector will inspect to ensure they’re free of issues that might degrade the pool’s quality. The inspector shall also inspect the patio as well as the surrounding deck. They shall look for the signs of chipping or other issues.

Later on, the inspector checks the fencing and gates that surround the pool; they must follow building codes and legal requirements. The inspector will also inspect the drainage and landscape around the pool. They will look for tilts or pitches that might affect how the water is drained away from the pool. The professionals will also check if the gutters are positioned away from the area, as this helps avoid the rainwater getting into the pool.

Equipment Inspection

Once the pool’s exterior has been inspected, it’s time to thoroughly inspect the equipment. For instance, the filter system and pool pump must be checked for proper functioning. There’s a chance for the equipment to leak if there is an issue with the filter or water pressure. So, to maintain the equipment’s efficiency, it’s better to schedule professional repair and maintenance services.  

If your pool is outfitted with a timer system, then the inspector may check if it is in good shape and correctly wired. Besides this, if you have a pool heater, then that needs to be inspected, too. Also, all the light fixtures must be free of condensation. During the inspection process, the inspector shall assess the condition of skimmers and drains.

Water Quality Assessment

Water quality assessment is an important part of the residential swimming pool inspection checklist. The water quality shall have normal limits each time. If the water quality is too high, then it will be very comfortable to swim in it. In fact, it might also contain high levels of contaminants that increase the risk of getting sick. So, when assessing the water quality, the inspector needs to measure the following:

• Total alkalinity
• Calcium hardness – must range from 200-400 pp,
• Current pH levels – must range from 0-14
• Chlorine or other sanitizers

Interior Inspection

When inspecting your pool’s interior, the inspector will look closely at the surface and identify if there are any imperfections. Whether your pool’s surface is made up of vinyl liner, tiles, or fiberglass, there’s a chance that it might get cracked. If the pool has a tiled surface, the inspector may look at the cracks in the paste between each tile.

Inspectors may also look for the presence of algae and other contaminants. If the pool has a major amount of algae, then the water might appear green. Even though pool algae aren’t harmful they might contain bacteria that might result in illnesses.

Safety Features Evaluation

This is an important step of pool inspection. The inspector looks at the required and optional safety equipment, ensuring that everything is in its correct working order. For instance, the pool lights and safety alarms must function correctly. It’s also important that you have needed drain and pool covers and they are in their best condition.

Electrical Systems Check

During the inspection, the pool’s electrical systems are one of the major areas that must be inspected. The inspector will evaluate the electrical components’ condition, such as pumps and lights. They shall also ensure that the system complies with all the local electrical codes. They must look at the wiring to ensure that it is GFCI-protected. If they find any signs of damage or corrosion, then that must be addressed immediately.

Structural Integrity

Looking for the signs of structural damage and deterioration, which may require more complex repairs, is another part of the pool inspection. The inspector shall check the stability of the pool’s diving boards, slides, and different accessories. In case the pool’s structural integrity is lacking in any way, then it is better to hold the swimming activities until you have made the repairs or replacements.

Conclusion

Getting your pool regularly inspected is an important part of maintaining the pool’s condition and equipment. With the inspection in place, you can avoid everything ranging from waterborne illnesses and safety hazards to algae growth.

With this residential pool inspection checklist, you get to have everything you need to thoroughly get your pool inspected. Once the inspector has performed the inspection, the second step you need to take is to regularly maintain it, and an inspection report can help you in this matter. With it, you’ll know where to start the maintenance from.

Schedule your professional pool inspection with GreenWorks Inspections today! Our expert team will ensure your pool meets all safety standards so you can enjoy a clean and secure swimming experience. Don’t wait—book now and make a splash with confidence!