Owning a home with a swimming pool is the dream of every Floridian and homeowners can easily be dazzled when they find a home with an inviting pool. While it is common to assume hidden issues with the pool would be uncovered during the home inspection, an informed home buyer will investigate further into the robusticity of their pool.
We have compiled some helpful information for you to look out for when buying a home with a pool in South Florida!
Home Inspection vs. Pool Inspection
While home inspectors will turn on pool pumps and heaters to make sure they’re working, they won’t evaluate cracks in the pool or check for leaks and will evaluate a pool based on visual observation.
Many pool inspections are done by inspectors that come from the home inspection perspective and they may not want to address leaks because they have no idea how to go about finding — or even addressing— the problem if one is detected. Inspectors have different levels of expertise depending on their backgrounds, so investing in a qualified pool inspection is important.
Common Pool Issues
A pool could have more issues than meets the eye.
Structural damage can develop cracks that cause leaking and plumbing issues or underground leaks can be caused by corrosion or movements in the ground. Broken pipes can include damage to return pipes, skimmer pipes, equalizer pipes, and the main drain.
Breaks, cracks, or collapses in pipes can happen anywhere. Loose or broken fittings are most likely to be where joint connections have been made. This is a common situation in both pools and spas.
Identify and Repair Before Closing Day
After you close on the house, you’ve lost any leverage you may have had with the seller to pay or adjust the purchase price for repairs. Hiring a professional pool inspector who will run pressure tests for plumbing leaks, and scrutinize pumps, filters, decking surfaces, and safety covers – among other checks – is a worthwhile investment that could save you money in expensive repairs down the road, as well as provide peace of mind.
We recommend discussing any findings with the pool inspector and with your Realtor in the event any modifications need to be made to your offer prior to closing.
Knowledge is power and knowing the importance of having your future pool inspected by a swimming pool professional will help you and your family enjoy years of stress-free fun in your slice of South Florida paradise!
Don’t leave this important part of your home inspection to chance! A Certified Leak Detection Specialist utilizes technology and techniques developed over 20 years in the business. In addition to the quick leak detection services, our team at Better Call Sal Pools provides industry-leading leak detection for spas and fountains as well.
Connect with us for quick and reliable Pool Leak Detection Service!