When you are shopping for a new home there are many things that you’ll have on your mind and on your wish list. Location, schools, architecture, size, and design are common and obvious factors that go into your decision-making process. Another item, especially in south Louisiana, that is making its way onto many home buyers’ radar is a swimming pool. Whether it’s a yard that is conducive to designing and building their own, or finding a house that already has a pool, there are several things to consider; especially for the latter.

If you are planning on buying a home with a pool, having it inspected is just as important as having the house inspected before you purchase. Furthermore, it should be inspected by a professional, experienced, qualified pool inspector. While a home inspector may add the pool to his checklist, there are many other things that need to be accounted for.

Swimming pools have many complex and complicated parts ranging from pumps, heaters, filters, electricity, plumbing, and more. Here are a few things that should be addressed in a pool inspection.

Pool Safety Features and Requirements

With any pool, there are safety requirements and regulations that must be met. Your pool inspector will be familiar with these and be able to assess if the pool is up to code. Elements ranging from self-latching gates, pool covers, door alarms, and fence height, and more will all be looked over during the inspection.

Condition of Pool Structure and Materials

This is a key aspect of any inspection. By inspecting the materials and structural integrity of the pool you’ll have a clear idea of how much if any, repairs are necessary for the safety, operation, and longevity of the pool. During this assessment the inspector will address:

• The interior finish of the pool
• Any tile
• Any coping
• The pool’s decking

Condition of Pool Equipment & Systems

The pool’s equipment and systems are another crucial area that requires an expert’s eye. Everything from the pool’s pump and filter to the electrical and circulation systems, as well as the plumbing’s condition needs to be assessed. Learning about the type of pump you have and confirming its condition can save you a lot of money on both repairs and replacement, but also your energy bill. Your inspector will understand the ins and outs of the pool’s operation and be able to communicate to you while making recommendations about what is and isn’t needed; allowing you to make the best decision possible.