Pool Inspections for Home Buyers
A pool can be the best part of a new home or a costly surprise. Get matched with an independent local pro to inspect it before you close.
Free matching with independent local pool pros across Florida.
Why buyers get the pool inspected
In Florida, a pool is often one of the most expensive features of a home, and one of the hardest to judge on a showing. Clear water can hide a leak, a pump near the end of its life or plaster that needs resurfacing. A pool inspection gives you a clearer picture of what you are buying so you can plan, budget or negotiate.
The inspection is done by an independent pool professional. It describes the condition of the pool on the day of the visit. It does not predict how long equipment will last.
What a pool inspection usually covers
Scope varies by pro, so confirm what is included before you book.
Structure and surface
Plaster or finish condition, cracks, tile, coping and deck.
Equipment
Pump, filter, heater or heat pump, salt system and automation, checked while running.
Water and circulation
Flow, pressure, skimmers, returns and basic water condition.
Signs of leaks
Visible leaks at the pad and other signs. Full leak detection may be a separate service.
Lighting and electrical observations
Whether lights work and visible concerns to refer to an electrician.
Safety features
Gates, barriers, alarms, covers and the screen enclosure.
Questions to ask the seller
- How old are the pump, filter and heater, and have any been replaced?
- When was the pool last resurfaced?
- Has the pool had any leak repairs?
- Who has been servicing the pool, and how often?
- Are there any manuals, receipts or service records?
- Has the screen enclosure had storm damage or repairs?
Share the answers with the inspecting pro. They help put findings in context.
Pool safety in Florida
Florida's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (Chapter 515 of the Florida Statutes) sets safety requirements for residential pools, such as barriers, approved safety covers or alarms. What applies to a specific home can depend on when the pool was built and local rules. If you have young children, ask the inspecting pro and your local building department what the property has and what you may want to add.
After the inspection
If the report flags problems, you can request quotes for specific repairs, such as pump repair, leak detection or resurfacing, and use them in your conversations with the seller. Cost of the inspection depends on the pool, the equipment and the scope, so ask what is included. Before work begins, confirm that the pro you hire holds the Florida license your job requires.
Pool inspection questions
How do I find pool inspection services near me?
Send a request with the property's city, your inspection deadline and whether the pool has a spa, heater or salt system. Dominion Pool Pros passes it to an independent local pro who inspects pools in that area.
How much does a pool inspection cost?
It depends on the pool's size, whether there is a spa, how much equipment there is, whether leak testing is included and how quickly you need it. Ask what the inspection covers and what kind of report you will receive.
Doesn't my home inspector check the pool?
Some home inspectors include a limited look at the pool, and some do not include it at all. A pool-focused inspection usually goes deeper into equipment operation, surfaces and signs of leaks. Ask your home inspector what they cover, then decide whether you want more.
When should I schedule the pool inspection?
As early as possible in your inspection period, so there is time to get repair quotes and negotiate if the inspection turns something up. Mention your deadline in the request.
What if the pool is green or not running on inspection day?
A pro can still look at the structure and equipment, but a green or empty pool hides the surface and makes some checks impossible. Ask the seller to have the pool running and clear before the inspection if you can. See green pool cleanup.
Related services
- Pool Leak Detection and RepairFind a local pro to trace water loss through plumbing, fittings, lights and the shell, then fix the source instead of refilling every week.
- Pool Safety Fences and CoversFind a local pro to install removable mesh safety fencing, self-closing gates or safety covers around your pool.
- Pool Pump Repair and ReplacementGet matched with a local pro when your pump hums, leaks, trips the breaker or will not prime, and find out whether a repair or a replacement makes more sense.
- Pool ResurfacingConnect with a local pro to replace rough, stained or cracking plaster with a new plaster, quartz or pebble finish.
Request a pool inspection in these Florida areas
Requests are matched with independent pros in six Florida metro areas. Availability depends on local pro coverage.
Buying a home with a pool?
Tell us the property's city and your inspection deadline. We will pass your request to an independent local pro.
Dominion Pool Pros is a free referral service. We connect Florida homeowners with independent local pool professionals and do not perform any pool or spa work ourselves.