Choosing the right pool supplier can help you avoid running into any potential problems during the installation of your new pool. In this article we cover how to avoid the major pitfalls, to help ensure you get the pool of your dreams.
When considering a pool supplier careful consideration should be given to factors such as the cost, installation, build quality, and of course, the aftercare service you can expect to receive from your chosen pool supplier. (More details on each follow below.)
In carrying out your research you should also try to ensure that your supplier has a good reputation within the industry and ask questions about completion dates, membership of trade bodies and guarantees.
Investing a little time now, researching your pool and pool supplier can really pay off.
When choosing a pool supplier, consider the following points:
Reputation
Choose a supplier with a good reputation – consider researching pool suppliers online, how long have they been established, have their installations been recognised through industry awards and how satisfied are their previous customers? What standard of workmanship and aftercare has been received? Can you find customer complaints, and if so, what are they complaining about? You may also want to find out if they have a showcentre where you can view full scale pools and meet the people behind the company. A well run show centre will often show how committed the company is to what they do. Be wary of online suppliers offering cheap products or installations.
Quality of work
Is the pool supplier able to demonstrate their previous work? Do they have a portfolio of completed work and are you able to see a pool that they’ve previously installed, in order to check the quality and finish?
Trade Memberships
Find out if the supplier is a member of any trade body or association, check this with the named trade body and ask whether they provide any assistance or advice to customers should problems arise.
Aftercare
Ask the supplier if they carry out any follow up or feedback with customers. A company that cares about quality and reputation will want to ensure you’re a satisfied customer. Find out how they resolve complaints with customers.
Warranties & Guarantees
Does the pool supplier provide a guarantee or warranty? If so, does it cover the essentials, such as the pool structure, heater, and filter tank? Often, a ‘lifetime’ warranty may be limited to parts or the cost of new parts installation. Check the terms and conditions to ensure you’re aware of what you’ll actually receive.
Terms and Conditions
When agreeing to purchase your pool, you will be entering into a contract with your pool supplier and the service you’re agreeing to will be bound by any terms and conditions provided, so be sure to request a copy and check them. Keeping a copy of these may help you prove what you’re entitled to should any problems arise.
Customer Feedback
If you’re thinking of going ahead with a supplier, you may wish to ask them whether any of their previous customers can provide a recommendation. If so, are you able to speak with them directly? If you are, ask them questions such as; was the pool installation completed on time? Did the costs increase, from the initial quote or estimate? Did they feel involved during the installation – were they happy with the communication received and with the end product? Genuine customer feedback may provide you with a real insight into the service being offered.
Protect your Money
It can be difficult to recover your money if a pool supplier goes out of business so try to ensure that your pool supplier is reliable and well established. Paying by credit card or linked finance may also help you protect your money if your purchase is covered under the Consumer Credit Act.
Costs
To make sure your pool is supplied at a reasonable cost, try to obtain at least three quotes from different suppliers. Obtaining a written quote from your chosen supplier can help to avoid future disputes. Be aware that quotes are legally binding whereas estimates can vary.
Maintenance Costs
As well as the cost of buying your pool, you’ll need to consider the ongoing maintenance costs of the pool that the supplier recommends. Questions that you may wish to ask your supplier could include:
- How much will the cleaning and servicing of my pool cost?
- How much will it cost to run a pump?
- What quantities of chemicals will be required and how much is this likely to cost?
- How much time and effort will be required in caring for my pool?
To view a list of suppliers in your local area, click here or to obtain a quote, click here.
Have you purchased a new pool? If so, what was your experience like, have we missed out any steps you took in making your decision and are there any tips or tricks you’d like to share with others? Please add your comments in the box provided below.