Part 2 – Access, Approval, Contract, and Preparation

Key Points:

• You may need your neighbor’s permission to build your pool
• If there is an HOA (Home Owners Association), you may need their approval
• Each builder has their own specific contract and addenda.  Read and discuss thoroughly
• Your irrigation system will probably be severely damaged during construction
• Lawn and landscaping will need to be replaced

Access

Some construction equipment used to build a pool can be quite large.  Even the smaller versions are around 6 feet wide.  The width of the path to access the construction area will determine the size of the equipment to be used.  If smaller equipment is necessary, there may be an additional cost.  If you don’t have enough property to allow access for the machinery, and need to use some of your neighbor’s yard, you will need to get their written permission prior to starting construction.  You will also be responsible for repairing any damage done to their yard.  Talk to your salesperson and walk the access area with them to get a better idea of what the width and height limitations are and what you will need to do to address any issues.

HOA Approval

If you are in a neighborhood that has an HOA (Home Owners Association) you may be required to get their approval before building a pool.  You should do this once you have your basic design, but before entering into the contractual agreement with the builder.  In the event that your request is denied, you may not be entitled to get your initial deposit back from the pool company.  Your HOA may request a copy of your survey with the pool and patio drawn in the intended location.  The HOA may also impose limitations on size, materials used, or colors for fences or enclosures.  Make sure you have all the requirements from your HOA before approving your final design and entering into a contract with the pool builder.

Contract

Each pool company will have their own contract.  Read and understand it completely before signing.  It should explain all the terms and conditions of the pool construction process.  The contract should specify each parties responsibilities.   Your payment schedule will also be outlined.

Preparation

Before the construction process starts, you may need to make some preparations on your property.  Keep in mind that everything in the access path and in and around the designated build area will be severely damaged or crushed by the construction equipment.  If you have large bushes or landscaping in the access or build area, they will probably ask you to remove them.  Move any plants or landscaping that you want to keep.

If you have an irrigation system, you will need to have it properly capped and shut down before construction starts.  Have a professional visit your property to cap and mark all the main lines that lead to your yard in and around the construction area.  Have them ensure that any wiring in the construction area that controls the irrigation system is also disconnected and marked so it can be restored after your pool is complete.  The equipment will most likely crush some of your sprinkler heads in addition to the damage done to the system during the digging process.  If you prepare ahead of time you can help keep your costs to a minimum.  If you don’t prepare ahead of the build, the irrigation company will have to spend extra time digging up your yard trying to find the pieces to put back together, after the fact.