What is Included in a Pool Inspection in a Home for Sale

The Importance of Pool Inspection

Pools increase home value but can become expensive burdens if hidden problems are ignored.  Damaged tiles, outdated equipment, or broken wiring may result in expensive maintenance.

There are around 10.4 million homes in the United States with residential swimming pools. Many standard home inspections overlook pools, so hiring a specialist is crucial to uncover pool-specific issues.

If you’re planning a pool inspection for a home purchase, it’s wise to hire a specialist. It is possible that the regular work of a home inspector does not allow them to identify pool-related problems.

A pool inspection checks for various things, including the pool’s condition and safety aspects.

A regular inspector may declare a pool free from defects, but a professional pool inspector focuses on all aspects of a pool related to its safety, working conditions, and longevity.

What’s Included in a Pool Inspection

Professional inspectors examine all critical pool elements, including:

• Structural damage, like cracks or leaks, may cause costly repairs
• Surface finishes and coping for wear and stability
• Pumps, heaters, filters, and timers to ensure reliable operation
• Electrical safety features such as GFCI outlets and proper bonding
• Plumbing, valves, and drainage to detect leaks or clogs
• Safety equipment like gates, locks, pool covers, and alarms that meet local codes
• Water circulation and filtration efficiency, sometimes with chemical analysis

Safety Matters: What Inspectors Look For

Pools are fun, but can be deadly if safety standards aren’t met. According to the CDC, drowning is the leading cause of accidental death in young children, making safety inspections critical. Typically, inspectors ensure that the safety elements are up to standard, especially when the pool is intended for children.

Common Safety Checkpoints

• Self-closing and self-latching gates.
• Appropriate pool fencing (which varies in height from place to place) is very important.
• Anti-entrapment systems to prevent suction hazards.
• There should be slip-resistant surfaces near the pool deck.

Even minor violations can create big hassles when selling your house and might even be hazardous to your family.

What Things Are Not Considered in a Pool Inspection

A pool inspection for a home purchase is thorough, but it’s not the same as a maintenance service. Pool inspections focus on safety and condition, not cleaning or minor maintenance, which should be handled separately.  Unless you are notified in the service, a detailed analysis of the water chemicals may not be included.

Be sure to include the spa, hot tub, or waterfall in your request for pool inspection when buying a home. It is not always standard for inspectors to include them in their regular inspections.

How Much Time Is Needed for a Pool Inspection

It can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours for an inspection, with the time depending on the pool’s features and location. After inspecting, the inspector should give a written report that includes pictures, notes, and suggested actions.

Attend the inspection to ask questions and understand your pool’s condition firsthand, empowering you to make an informed decision.

How Much Does a Pool Inspection Cost

A professional pool inspection for a home purchase typically costs between $200 and $500, depending on the location and size of the pool. A professional inspection is a small price to pay compared to the potential thousands spent on emergency repairs and safety hazards. 

How Often Should You Arrange the Inspection

Always schedule a pool inspection before buying a home; addressing issues early helps you negotiate repairs, price reductions, or avoid costly surprises. Knowing all the details helps you make a fair and risk-free investment when buying in “as is” condition.

Conclusion: Dive In with Confidence 

A pool inspection for a home purchase isn’t just another checkbox; it’s an essential part of protecting your investment and your family. It guarantees that your dream pool won’t cause any financial problems. An inspection by a professional will allow you to review all the features and equipment of the pool.

Trust GreenWorks Inspections for expert pool inspections before buying. Call us today to protect your family and your investment. No matter how many homes you have purchased, we will ensure you feel secure about your pool before you agree to buy.

Avoid hazards and risks by getting a pool inspection from GreenWorks before sealing the deal. All great homes deserve a pool that has zero issues.