A pool is an addition everyone in the house would love for your backyard. But, as we all know, the cost can scare you. You must make the right decision on who you use to put in your pool. 

Financially speaking, question them. You want to make sure that you are questioning your contractor about everything. Ask them all the hard questions to ensure you want to go with this company. The last thing you need is to be left with a half-dug pool, and they disappear. 

Are You Licensed, Insured, and Bonded?

You want to ask this question so you don’t get stuck in a bad place. Having these 3 things is just an added boost of confidence for you. This means that they abide by the law and stand behind their work.

There are a lot of different rules and codes that need to be followed when installing a pool. If they are not licensed, you have a higher risk of them not following all the rules. When it comes to this kind of work, you want it done right.

The Importance Of Being Insured

In order to be covered for company-related liabilities like property damage or accidental injury, contractors typically secure a general liability insurance policy. If these unfortunate and unforeseen events occur, having the appropriate insurance can assist with paying for other accrued costs, such as medical and legal expenses. 

While insurance is typically optional, unlike bonds and licenses, it’s generally a good idea for contractors to have coverage ahead of any unforeseen circumstances. Moreover, insurance is a beneficial way to state to your clients and workers that you care enough about their safety and well-being to have a policy in place. 

Why Licensing Matters

An individual who has fulfilled the contractor training and certification requirements and secured a contractor license qualifies as a licensed contractor in that state. A contractor’s ability to guarantee the quality of their work is reflected and further strengthened by their license. States have different standards for licensing, but generally speaking, you have to pass an exam and provide proof of bonding and insurance.

If the total cost of construction or renovation exceeds $500, all companies or individuals operating in California who build or alter any type of building, road, parking structure, railroad, excavation, or other structure of any kind are required to hold a license granted by the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Furthermore, before submitting bids for a job, contractors in California must also be licensed. 

What Being Bonded Means 

When an individual or a company agrees to perform a specific service for a third party, a bond acts as insurance. The bond protects against any monetary losses resulting from the individual or company’s inability or unwillingness to fulfill the initially agreed-upon promises or obligations. If promises or obligations are left unsatisfied, the bond can be utilized as compensation if responsibilities are defaulted upon. 

A contractor’s bond is also beneficial as a means of peace of mind because it guarantees that the contractor will complete a job to the accepted industry standards and client expectations. This typically works hand in hand with acquiring a license, as most states consider this one of the requirements for obtaining a contractor’s license.

Are Their Reviews Good?

With technology the way it is now, you can learn anything you need to know online. If someone has done a less-than-acceptable job, most likely a simple internet search and you will find it. It will save you time, money, and stress in the future if you take the time to perform some research and examine as many online reviews as you think is necessary before choosing an individual or company for your project.

Do a lot of research before picking your contractor and read all about them before calling them. You do have to read them and make your own decision, though. Sometimes, people will leave bad reviews to blast them for something out of their control. If you only see a couple of bad reviews among hundreds of good ones, it’s up to you to decide. 

How Many Years of Experience Do They Have?

By all means, everyone has to start somewhere. But think about the investment that you are making in this. Digging an in-ground pool is a very high-dollar ticket. You will want to hire someone with experience. A contractor with experience will be able to answer your questions right away while still making you feel they are the right people for the job. 

Finding someone with five or more years of experience is ideal. Generally, a contractor or contractor company that has been in business for this amount of time will have in-depth knowledge of the industry, materials, and best practices for the job. They will also be knowledgeable about any permits that would need to be obtained and submitted before the project begins. 

What Is The Process of Installing This Pool?

A good pool contractor will be able to answer this question with ease. They shouldn’t hesitate and stumble over their words. They will know all the information needed to make you confident for them to dig your pool. 

They should know the ins and outs of all the in-depth questions you may have. The pressure of the system and the chemicals needed. It’s all about the care you will need to take for it. The more information they know, the better it should make you feel about them being your choice. 

Are They A Member of The Better Business Bureau?

The Better Business Bureau isn’t something that just anyone can walk into. You have to apply and be accepted. Put simply, being a member demonstrates that a company satisfies the reliability and trust standards set out by the Better Business Bureau. 

They are most likely a good business if their business is a member. You should be able to trust them to follow through with the job and do it right. 

Let Us Help You With Your New Pool

Cavalier Builders is a family-owned company located in California. They are a highly trained, licensed, bonded, and insured group of contractors ready to help you with your next project. Additionally, the company is a member of the Contractors State License Board and the BBB, offering an A+ rating. Give them a call today and set up an appointment to receive a free in-home design consultation and estimate for your next project.