Pool and Spa Inspections

Pool and Spas are not part of the normal home inspection because not every home has a pool. But this inspection can be done with the home inspection for just $30.

Pool and Spa Inspection Checklist 

The following inspection checklist was adapted from the guidelines recommended by the National Swimming Pool Foundation:

• Adequate fencing, gates, barriers, alarms, and/or other protective devices are installed. 
• Surfaces leading to the pool, including the deck and steps, are slip-resistant. 
• Decks on all sides of the pool meet minimum safety standards. 
• The deck is separated from the pool wall perimeter. 
• There are no standing puddles on the deck. 
• All ladders, stanchions, chairs, rails, treads, plates, and other deck equipment are tightly secured in place. 
• An adequate means of egress from the pool is provided. 
• No unpleasant odors or irritating fumes are apparent. 
• No physical damage is apparent at the pool equipment. 
• Main drain grates are bolted securely to the pool's bottom. 
• Grates are visible from the deck, with no damage apparent. 
• Water return inlets are installed. 
• No debris is visible. The water is clean. 
• There’s no discoloration of the water. 
• Algae growth is not visible. 
• Water temperature is maintained within acceptable levels and is appropriate for the primary activities being conducted in the pool. 
• The type of heater is identified. 
• The heater is installed on a level, non-combustible base. 
• Safety devices are installed on the heater. 
• The thermostat is identified and located. 
• Check valves between the heater and filter are installed. 
• Bonding and grounding are visible. 
• The heater is installed downstream of the pump and filter. 
• If a solar-heating system is installed. 
• The solar-heating system is active. 
• Pool chemicals are stored a safe distance away from the heater. 
• Adequate clearances around the heater are maintained.
• Coping stones and tiles are not chipped, cracked or loose. 
• The pool shell appears smooth, without readily visible defects. 
• There is no visible surface staining. 
• The water level appears to be maintained to allow for the removal of floating debris. The water level appears at the proper height to allow continuous overflow of water into the gutters or skimmers. 
• Skimmer weirs, skimmer baskets, deck covers, and flow-adjustment devices are installed. 
• Lights are installed and are operational. 
• GFCIs are installed. 
• Electrical wiring is not passing directly over the pool or spa. 
• Hose bibs are installed near the pool. 
• No apparent defects or signs of repair are observed at the diving board. 
• The centrifugal pump is secured to its base and is operating quietly. 
• The hair and lint strainer basket is clean of debris. 
• Pipes and fittings are not leaking. 
• Pipes are supported adequately. 
• Air pressure-relief valves are installed on all pressure filter tanks.
• Filter tanks are accessible. 
• A clean sight glass has been provided. 
• The pressurized filter tanks and hair and lint traps are not leaking and are properly sealed. 
• A spa is installed.
• The spa is operational.
• No physical damage is apparent at the spa. 
• A spa timer is installed and not reachable by a spa user. 
• The emergency shut-off switch for the spa is installed and clearly labeled.
• The spa appears clean and adequately maintained.