Congratulations—you've decided to invest in a pool. Now comes an important decision: choosing who builds it.

A pool is a significant investment that will be part of your home for decades. The builder you choose affects not just the construction process, but the long-term quality and enjoyment of your pool. Here's how to avoid costly mistakes.

Red Flag #1: Pressure to Sign Immediately

Quality builders are busy, but legitimate urgency is different from manufactured pressure. Be cautious if a builder:

Offers a "today only" discount
Claims they can squeeze you in but only if you commit now
Seems more focused on closing the sale than understanding your needs
Gets pushy or aggressive when you want time to think

A reputable builder wants you to make an informed decision. They know that rushed customers often become unhappy customers.

Red Flag #2: Vague or Missing Documentation

Professional pool builders operate like professionals. That means clear documentation.

You should receive:

A detailed written proposal (not just a verbal estimate)
Specific scope of work—what's included and what's not
Timeline expectations
Payment schedule tied to project milestones
Warranty information in writing

If a builder can't or won't provide clear documentation, that's a problem. Verbal agreements lead to misunderstandings, and misunderstandings lead to disputes.

Red Flag #3: Unusually Low Bids

Pool construction involves real costs: materials, labor, equipment, permits, insurance. When a bid seems too good to be true, it usually is.

Low bids often mean:

Cutting corners on materials or construction quality
Inexperienced crews
Change orders that inflate the final price
A contractor who may not finish the job

Get multiple quotes, but evaluate them critically. The cheapest option rarely delivers the best value.

Red Flag #4: No Local References

A builder who's been working in your area should have satisfied customers nearby. Ask for references and actually call them.

Questions for references:

Did the project stay on timeline and budget?
How was communication during construction?
Were there any issues, and how were they handled?
Would you hire them again?
How has the pool held up since installation?

If a builder can't provide local references, or if the references seem scripted, dig deeper.

Red Flag #5: Licensing and Insurance Gaps

In Utah, pool builders need proper contractor licensing. They also need insurance that protects you if something goes wrong during construction.

Ask to see:

Current contractor's license
Liability insurance certificate
Workers' compensation coverage

Don't just take their word for it. Legitimate builders will provide documentation without hesitation. If they can't or won't, walk away.

Red Flag #6: Poor Communication

How a builder communicates during the sales process usually predicts how they'll communicate during construction.

Watch for:

Slow responses to calls or emails
Evasive answers to direct questions
Unwillingness to explain their process
Making you feel like you're bothering them

Pool construction involves decisions, coordination, and occasional problems. You want a builder who communicates clearly and proactively.

Questions to Ask Every Builder

Before signing anything, get clear answers to:

How long have you been building pools in this area?
Who will actually be on-site during construction?
What's your typical timeline for a project like mine?
How do you handle unexpected issues or changes?
What warranty do you provide, and what does it cover?
Can I see examples of completed projects similar to mine?

The answers matter, but so does how they answer. Confidence, clarity, and patience are good signs.

Trust Your Instincts

If something feels off, it probably is. The best builder relationships start with mutual respect and clear communication. If that's not present from the beginning, it won't magically appear once construction starts.

Our Approach

We're direct: we're not the right fit for everyone. But we're committed to honest communication, clear documentation, and delivering what we promise.

If you're evaluating builders, we're happy to answer your questions—even if you ultimately choose someone else. A consultation with us is free, low-pressure, and genuinely informative.

Choosing a Pool Builder: Red Flags to Watch For