Whether you have an outdoor swimming pool or a hot tub/spa in your backyard, having the pool inspected is one of the most important things you can do to ensure the safety of everyone who uses it. While swimming pools are fun and relaxing for many people, they can also be deadly if not properly maintained. There are numerous health and safety concerns associated with recreational water that should be addressed by your local pool inspector, including chlorine levels, chemical balance, and water temperature.
Drowning is the leading Our top rated safety inspector for pools cause of unintentional injury-related death for children ages 1-14, and non-fatal drowning injuries can result in permanent brain damage and loss of basic functioning. A poorly maintained pool can also be a breeding ground for dangerous bacteria, such as cryptosporidium. In addition, pool chemicals can be a source of skin, eye, and respiratory tract problems.
A good pool inspector will check for all of these potential issues as well as other things like:
The physical condition of the pool, including the decking, pool structure, and other features, such as diving boards and slides. Pool inspectors will look for any cracks, gaps, or other signs of wear and tear. For example, vinyl liners typically need to be replaced after about 12 years, so the inspector will look for signs that it is time for a new liner. Similarly, fiberglass pools can last up to 30 years and the inspector will look for any scratches or other types of noticeable damage that may need attention.
Equipment systems and infrastructure conditions, such as the breaker box and the pool’s drainage system. This includes examining the filtration and pump equipment for any leaks and other signs of trouble. Additionally, the inspector will check for any electrical components in the area around the pool and make sure they are insulated from the water.
If your pool has any alarm systems, the inspector will check them to make sure they are working properly. These systems can alert swimmers to open gates, pool-facing doors and windows, or even if someone enters the water itself. Some systems even allow you to connect them to your home’s Wi-Fi so that you can receive notifications on your phone if they are triggered.
The inspector will also examine any ladders and handrails, and make sure that they are secured to the pool deck and pool walls. They will make sure that the ladders and handrails are not rusting or showing signs of wear and tear, and they will also test the safety latches for proper operation. Ladders that are not properly anchored to the pool deck can fall, which could be very dangerous for anyone who is not wearing a lifeguard suit.
The inspector should be able to provide a thorough and complete inspection report that is easy to understand. In addition, they should be able to give you a quick turnaround on the inspection. This will help you avoid the hassle of having to wait for your inspection results while allowing you to prepare for the future use of your pool or hot tub/spa.