Top 10 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Swimming Pool Contractor

Adding a swimming pool to your home is exciting. It’s not just about fun and relaxation—it's also a big investment that can boost your property’s value. But before the digging begins, there’s one very important decision you need to make: which swimming pool contractor to hire.

There are many Swimming Pool Contractors out there, but not all of them deliver the same quality of work. Choosing the right one can save you time, money, and a lot of stress.

To help you make the best choice, here are 10 important questions you should ask before hiring any swimming pool contractor.

1. Are You Licensed and Insured?

This should be the first question you ask. A proper license means the contractor is legally allowed to build swimming pools in your area. It shows they have the required training and follow safety and building rules.

Also ask if they have insurance. If something goes wrong—like someone getting hurt on your property or accidental damage to your home—insurance will protect you. Always ask to see proof of both license and insurance. A good contractor will have no problem showing you.

2. How Long Have You Been Building Pools Like Mine?

Experience matters. You want someone who has built pools similar to what you’re looking for. Whether it’s a small backyard pool or a large custom design with special features, your contractor should have done it before.

Ask how many years they’ve been in business and how many similar projects they’ve completed. Experienced Swimming Pool Contractors should also be able to show you photos and examples of their past work.

3. Can You Share Reviews or References from Past Clients?

A reliable contractor will be happy to connect you with past customers. Talking to people who’ve worked with them before can give you a good idea of what to expect.

When you contact references, ask questions like:

• Did the contractor stick to the schedule?

• Was the budget followed?

• How did the pool turn out?

• Would you hire them again?

Also, check online reviews on sites like Google or Yelp. A company with mostly positive reviews is usually a safe bet.

4. What Will Be Included in the Estimate and Contract?

Before agreeing to anything, make sure you get a written estimate and clear contract. These should explain everything that’s included in the project, such as:

Type of pool and materials

• Labor costs

• Equipment and supplies

• Permits and fees

• Extra features like lighting or decks

It should also include a payment plan and a project timeline. Knowing exactly what you’re paying for helps you avoid surprise costs later on. Good Swimming Pool Contractors will be happy to go over everything in detail with you.

5. Will You Handle the Permits and Approvals?

Most areas require permits before you can start building a swimming pool. A good contractor will know exactly what’s needed and offer to take care of the paperwork for you.

Ask what permits are required for your project and if the contractor will get them. This can save you a lot of time and confusion, and it ensures the pool is being built legally.

6. How Long Will the Pool Take to Build?

Building a swimming pool can take several weeks or even months, depending on the design and weather. Ask for a realistic start and finish date. Also ask how delays—like bad weather or supply issues—are handled.

A trustworthy contractor will give you a clear timeline and update you if anything changes along the way. Be sure the timeline is included in your contract so both sides are clear on what to expect.

7. Do You Offer a Warranty? What Does It Cover?

A swimming pool is a long-term investment, so it’s important to have a warranty in case something goes wrong. Most reliable Swimming Pool Contractors offer warranties on both the materials and their work.

Ask how long the warranties last and what they cover. For example:

• Structural warranty (covers the pool shell) – often 10 years or more

• Equipment warranty (for pumps, filters, etc.) – usually 1 to 3 years

• Workmanship warranty – covers the quality of construction

Make sure all warranty details are written in the contract.

8. Will You Use Subcontractors? If So, Who Are They?

Sometimes, contractors hire other companies or workers (called subcontractors) to help with parts of the job—like plumbing or electrical work. This is common, but you should still ask who these people are and how they’re chosen.

Make sure all subcontractors are also licensed and insured. Also, find out if your main contractor will be on-site to manage the work and make sure everything is done right.

9. Do You Offer Pool Maintenance Services After the Build?

Building a pool is just the beginning. Pools need regular cleaning, water testing, and maintenance. Some Swimming Pool Contractors offer ongoing maintenance services to help keep your pool in great shape.

Ask if they offer things like:

• Weekly or monthly cleaning

• Water testing and balancing

• Equipment repairs or replacements

• Opening and closing for the seasons

Even if you plan to take care of it yourself, it’s good to know these services are available if you need them.

10. Can You Customize the Pool to Fit My Budget and Style?

Your pool should match your vision and your wallet. A good contractor will listen to your ideas and work with your budget. They should be able to offer different options for materials, sizes, shapes, and features.

Be careful if a contractor tries to push you into extra features you don’t need or rushes you into decisions. The best Swimming Pool Contractors focus on what works best for you.

Extra Tips for Choosing the Right Swimming Pool Contractor

Besides asking these 10 questions, here are a few more things that can help you choose the right contractor:

• Check for Professional Memberships: Look for contractors who are part of industry groups like the Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA). This shows they follow industry standards and stay up to date with new practices.

• Visit a Job Site or Finished Pool: Ask if you can visit a pool they’re working on now or one they’ve completed recently. Seeing their work in person can tell you a lot about their attention to detail and quality.

• Pay Attention to Communication: If the contractor is hard to reach or avoids your questions, it could be a red flag. Good Swimming Pool Contractors are easy to talk to, answer your questions clearly, and keep you updated during the project.

• Get More Than One Quote: It’s always smart to talk to a few different contractors before making your decision. Compare their prices, experience, and customer service. Don’t just go with the cheapest option—look at the full picture.

Final Thoughts

Hiring a swimming pool contractor is one of the most important steps in building your dream pool. Asking the right questions—and listening carefully to the answers—can help you choose someone who’s skilled, honest, and professional.

Remember: not all Swimming Pool Contractors are the same. Take your time, do your homework, and don’t be afraid to walk away if something doesn’t feel right. A trustworthy contractor will be happy to answer your questions, show their work, and make sure you feel confident before moving forward.

Once you find the right team, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a beautiful, long-lasting pool that fits your needs and adds joy to your home for years to come.