What SDI Looks For With a Pool Inspection
If you find a home with a swimming pool, the safety and condition of the pool is just as important as the rest of the house. A pool adds to the value of a home. But a pool that is not in good condition can be a money pit. So it’s important to get an inspection of a pool before you purchase. Knowing what to look for with a pool inspection will make you more confident in your inspection and help you make an informed decision when you are ready to buy.
Structure and Materials- Plaster, Tile, Coping, and Decking
We look for cracks in the plaster, tile, rip in the vinyl liner (if applicable), missing coping, and deterioration in the decking. Deterioration is expected, but the inspector will be looking for uneven spots on the pool deck or missing grout in stones in a waterfall.
The inspector will check the interior finish in the inside of the pool for cracks that are bigger than a hairline. Furthermore, the inspector will look to see if the pool needs resurfacing, and if it does, it will be noted.
Equipment Pad- The Pump, Filter, and Heater
This is the area that controls everything in the pool. The pump is what makes it all work and provides the circulation of the water. This area is very important to maintain and to keep the shrubbery away from it.
Filter
The filter collects the dirt and debris that is in the pool and keeps it clean. Filters have a cartridge that goes inside of it and it comes in different sizes. It is important to be using one on the recommendation list for the size of your pool.
The largest size cartridge that can fit in the filter is better. This is because it can save water and needs less cleaning. A good inspector will look at the gauge on the filter to make sure it works as well as the clamp for the filter tank.
Heater
Heaters are optional on pools as they are an extra expense to add. Many heaters are electric, propane, or solar. However, for an inspection, a pool inspector will make sure that the heater is properly grounded and is heating the pool efficiently.
Electrical and Plumbing Lines
These support the system and need to be running properly. The inspector checks that the breakers are properly labeled and the plumbing lines are free of leaks. In addition, he will check for bubbles in the return lines that could indicate there is a leak in the suction.
Mold
Often a leaky plumbing area can create an environment favorable for mold growth. Once growing, mold can spread and possible enter the home. We check mold in the plumbing area and can check the home.
