What we review
Everything that should be on a pool quote — and everything that quietly shouldn't be. Here's the checklist a retired pool contractor runs on your contract.
Pricing & scope
- Line-item pricing benchmarked against your regional market
- Total price vs. comparable builds in your area
- Allowances vs. fixed pricing (and where allowances hide risk)
- Excavation, hauling, and access assumptions
- Deck material, square footage, and finish grade
Scope & inclusions
- What's actually included vs. what's assumed
- Excavation, hauling, and access assumptions
- Retaining walls, elevation changes, and drainage responsibilities
- Whether permit fees and inspections are covered
- What happens if the plan needs to change after signing
Plumbing spec
- Pipe size vs. pump flow — the #1 place quotes are under-spec'd
- Number and placement of returns, skimmers, and main drains
- Suction and pressure-side balancing as written
- Bonding grid called out on the contract
Equipment
- Pump horsepower and variable-speed vs. single-speed for your pool volume
- Heater sizing (BTU) vs. pool surface area and climate
- Filter type and turnover rate
- Sanitation system (chlorine, salt, UV, ozone) and its actual coverage
- Automation and control system
Features & add-ons
- Spa spillover, sheer descents, bubblers, and deck jets
- Lighting count and color-changing tech
- Tile, coping, and interior finish selections
- Attached spa vs. detached and its plumbing implications
Contract terms
- Payment schedule vs. work completed at each milestone
- Change-order language and pricing rules
- Warranty terms — what's covered, for how long, and by whom
- Lien releases and subcontractor payment protection
- Delay, cancellation, and dispute-resolution clauses