Pool Inspection

Equipment Operation

Part of the pool inspection will include a visual inspection and basic operation of the equipment used to operate the pool or spa, including motors, pumps, valves, filters, and heating systems. The equipment will be inspected for defects such as leaks in exposed plumbing, deficient heating and electrical, and other malfunctioning components. A pool inspection will introduce the idea of safety, and longevity of its equipment. This will assist in knowing what repairs are needed, or if complete replacement of equipment is necessary.

Safety Equipment

With all pools and spas, safety is a major concern. There are even certain federal and state laws requiring safety measures with all pools and spas. Pool inspections require devices to ensure that proper safety features are present and in good working condition. Electrical components are another safety concern, and the inspector will look over all visible and accessible electrical equipment to verify that the appropriate safety standards are met. Lastly, steps and ladders, or any other points of egress, will be inspected for defects to ensure they follow local regulations.

The Surrounding Area

Just as important as the pool or spa, is the surrounding area. Making sure that pool and spa regulations are being followed in the surround area will minimize risk of injury. With an inspection, inspectors will determine if the home is compliant with all local regulation regarding pool and spa safety. The inspector will give specific instructions to help improve the area before buying or selling the home. This might include safety barriers, fencing, coping, and sidewalks.

What We Will Not Inspect

The following is what we will not inspect:

Test, operate, or evaluate components when weather conditions or other circumstances may cause equipment damage.
Test, operate, or evaluate automatic safety controls and manual or automatic valves.
Touch swimming pool/spa water to examine the structure, components, and features, and their composition/quality.
Test, operate, or evaluate electric resistance heaters.
Determine structural integrity.
Inspect any equipment or component that is shut down or that is not responding to normal operating controls, including conditions caused by the absence of a required energy source such as electricity or gas.
Inspect, test, operate, or evaluate: low voltage or electronic controls, water chemistry or clarity, out-of-level conditions, presence or absence of bacteria/algae, backwash functions, aerators, automatic cleaning systems, automatic water fill systems, water treatment systems, chemical dispensers, thermostats, heating elements, heat exchangers, solar and other alternative energy heating systems, water features, covers and related components, accessories, leaks in shell, underground components, temporary safety barriers and alarms, stray voltage, and the interior of filters including filter cartridges.
Inspect, test, operate, or evaluate diving and jump boards, slides, play equipment and similar components; and the suitability of the pool for the use of such components and for activities such as diving; and I. determine the adequacy of: system or component design, structural components, equipment and component compatibility, flow rates, high or low pressure conditions, filters, heaters, safety barriers and alarms, and entrapment prevention components.

Please note:
A pool inspection must be ordered in conjunction with a home inspection.

Safety features, such as the presence of a perimeter fence that surrounds the pool with a gate that should open outward and self-closing/self-latching locks. Other safety features may include GFCI protection and functionality, presence of door alarms, pool/spa covers, safety drain covers, safe egress (steps, hand rail) etc.
Visible conditions including defects in the pool/spa structure, interior surfaces (plaster), and materials.
Pool/Spa Equipment including the condition and functionality of pumps, visible plumbing, heaters, filters, gauges, electrical components, Pool and Spa lights, skimmers, bonding wire etc.
Visual condition of the decking and coping that surrounds the Pool and Spa (cracks, lifting, trip-hazards).
Vegetation, grading, surface drainage, and retaining walls that is likely to adversely affect the swimming pool or spa.