Installing a New Swimming Pool

(This information is deemed to be reliable however it is not guaranteed)

http://www.azbluestake.com Arizona Blue Stake dig safely 602-263-1100

http://phoenix.about.com/cs/we/a/poolbuilder.htm

Check Registrar of Contractors http://www.azroc.gov

Check Better Business Bureau

Request a contractor’s payment and performance bond; insurance company issues and guarantees/buyer pays costs appx 2% of contract price. Be sure the pool contractor qualifies for this bond. Verify the bond is in effect before work has started.

Read contract in advance and check:

1. Start and completion dates.
2. Liquidated damages if not finished by a certain date.
3. List of subcontractors.
4. Specific products to be used; specify brand names, model numbers, styles or types AND indicate that no substitutions are allowed without written approval. Include a liquidated damages clause if specified products are not used.
5. That it offers a written guarantee.
6. Make sure it specifies who will obtain any required permits.
7. Make sure the contract includes the minimum elements from Arizona Revised Statute 32-1158.
8. Proof of liability insurance and worker compensation insurance; verify with insurance carrier.
9. Clear payment schedule. Make sure the final payment is when the pool has been completed (after the plaster is preferred).

Get everything in writing and keep written records.

Ask for Lien Releases; before making progress payment verify with subs.

Typical payment schedule:

1. Maximum of $1,000 down
2. Not more than 30% of the contract price (plus any written change orders) after excavation for the pool shell.
3. Not more than 30% of the price after steel, plumbing, and pneumatically applied concrete are installed.
4. Not more than 30% after the installation of the decking material.
5. The unpaid balance including any written change orders before the application of finishing interior materials/OR/that final payment not to be paid until the job is 100% completed.
6. Any changes to the work specified require a written change order whether or not there is a change in the total cost of the pool.

Before hiring a contractor:

1. Develop a list of contractors.
2. Obtain the owner’s name, their contractor’s license number (or the information from the contractor’s license certificate or contractor’s license id card).
3. Call or check the ROC website; verify they have a current license and are properly licensed to perform the work. Also check with the BBB.
4. Check the complaint record with the ROC.
5. Obtain at least 3 bids. Provide detailed instructions, the quality of materials to be used. This information should be included in the final contract documents.

Check the permit department for records, this is where to get references.

Smaller Custom Pool Builders

Arizona Pool Builders                           Cameo Pools

480-998-1196                                     480-969-4034

ROC 110879                                       ROC 045478

Majestic Pools and Spas                       Malibu Pools

480-545-4946                                     602-274-7946

ROC 102825                                       ROC 126848

Phoenician Pools                                  Precision Pools and Spas

602-996-6686                                     480-895-6000

ROC 082570                                       ROC 185113

Sunburst Pools and Spas                      Suncoast Pools and Spas

480-998-5848                                     602-971-2601

ROC 090829                                       ROC 176509

True Blue Pools

480-820-9495

ROC 126009

Largest Pool Builders in Arizona

California Pools and Spas                     Caribbean Pools and Spas

480-345-0005                                     480-503-3300

ROC 092233                                       ROC 118783

Dolphin Pools                                       Pacific Pools and Spas

602-569-6336                                     480-775-8900

ROC 094365                                       ROC 122185

Paddock Pools                                     Presidential Pools and Spas

480-947-7261                                     480-967-7261

ROC 0713031                                     ROC 094228

Rondo Pools                                        Shasta Pools and Spas

602-246-6202                                     602-532-3750

ROC 061263                                       ROC 028410