Perhaps the most popular attraction in any backyard, the swimming pool offers an aquatic site for countless hours of rest and recreation. Whether you’re thinking of selling or buying a house with a pool, or you just want to identify any issues, a pool inspection can prove to be a wise investment to help you save on any bigger problems down the road.

Thankfully, pool inspections don’t always have to cost an arm and a leg—and it’ll always be cheaper if you catch a complication early. That’s why

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How much does a pool inspection cost?

The national average of a pool inspection costs $140, but it’s possible your bill could start as high as $300. Here’s what will affect the cost of an inspection:

Pool size: Inspectors will use the size of your pool to base the price of the inspection—the bigger the pool, the more you can expect to pay.

Location: Inspection costs can vary depending on what state you live in, with the most expensive coming in hot states where pools add the most value.

Pool equipment: Pools with special equipment installed, such as heaters and salt generators, can result in pricier inspections.

When it comes to buying a house with a pool, most states do not require a pool inspection before a sale is initiated, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get one. You have the rest of the house inspected before putting in an offer, so why stop at the pool?

A standard home inspection will not typically include a pool inspection, so be ready to shell out a few extra bucks for this additional expense. It’s important to note that while residential pools are not legally required to be inspected, commercial swimming pools are under different legislation and do require inspection.

Skipping out on a pool inspection is not worth saving money. Proving your pool is in good condition can boost the value of your home to prospective sellers, and can help speed up the purchasing process for prospective buyers.

MORE: Your guide to installing an above-ground pool

Do I need a pool inspection?

A pool inspection is a smart idea for anyone suspicious of problems with their pool and can save you serious money before the issue gets worse. Pool owners that live in areas with harsh weather should also get routine inspections because heavy precipitation and wind can damage a pool.

Even though states do not mandate a pool inspection before a real estate exchange, you’ll want to consider this expense—especially if you are the one buying the house and pool. If an inspector finds that the pool needs costly repairs, this can go against the value of the house.

Pool inspection for an FHA loan

If you are purchasing a house with a FHA loan, a pool inspection could be required if the pool is inground. FHA mortgages have specific criteria that the inground pool must meet, and the appraiser will have to report any defects before the loan is approved.

As for above-ground pools, those are typically considered personal property and do not go towards the real value of the property due to their simple removal process. As a result, the appraiser will not complete an inspection as in-depth as they would with an inground pool.

MORE:

Home insurance terms you need to know

Signs of a damaged pool

Pool professionals recommend having your pool inspected at least once per year, especially right before your swimming season starts. Weather can pose a big threat to a pool’s structure and equipment, making an annual inspection a good way to get ahead of any problems.

Here are a few telltale signs that you should call a professional inspector to diagnose your pool:

Damaged liner: A common cause of leaks, keep an eye out for creases or cracks in the liner.

Cold water: Is your water freezing when it should be warm? Your heater probably needs some attention.

Green water: Growing algae from a chlorine shortage can bring you a green surprise.

Burnt bulbs: This could shine a light on potential electrical issues.

Dirty water: Your pipes could be blocked with leaves or debris, and need a professional unclogging.

Staying on top of cleanings and maintenance can help keep your pool in good condition, but if you see any of the above issues, you’ll want to call a professional pool service. They will be able to identify the root of the problem and create a plan to properly resolve their findings.

MORE: How to winterize your above ground pool

Pool treatment costs

The price for pool treatments has a wide range of outcomes due to factors such as pool style, size, and equipment. Typically, treatment will cost anywhere between $300 and $5,000—but could spike all the way up to $15,000 if you have an inground pool in dire need of work.

The earlier you catch any problem with your pool, the more affordable fixing it will be—so always keep an eye out and never shy away from picking up the phone if something seems off.

The priciest repairs will be for inground pools with structural damage due to the necessary digging and resurfacing. Unfortunately, even more common issues like draining or leak detection will run you a few hundred dollars, so it’s always paramount that you take good care of your pool and schedule yearly inspections.

Some inexpensive methods of pool preservation include:

Measure your water level

Clean the filter and pump

Empty your pool cleaner bags

Routinely analyze the chemical levels and add any if necessary

Tighten any diving board and ladder bolts

Scrub pool tiles

While pool maintenance and protection can be costly and time-consuming, that inspection bill is significantly lower than the reconstruction or equipment replacement fees you could be forced to pay if you don’t bring in a professional pool inspector.

The best professional companies for a pool inspection

Premier Pool Service

(BBB rating A+): After inspection, this company offers cleaning packages that include weekly reports of what services were performed and your water’s chemistry status.

Anthony and Sylvan Pools

(BBB rating A+): This company services 15 states and offers a “Lifetime Structural Warranty” for all inground concrete and fiberglass pools.

ASP - America's Swimming Pool Co.

(BBB rating A-): With 20 years of professional pool experience, ASP offers customizable maintenance plans to fit your budget.

How to save on homeowners insurance

A pool inspection can run up a considerable bill, but it’s worth your pool and family’s health knowing you will be swimming in a safe and clean pool. Another way to make sure your house is protected is to shop for affordable

homeowners insurance

with

Jerry

The process couldn’t be more simple: just download the app, enter your information, and Jerry will compare policies from the most popular providers in as little as 45 seconds so you never overpay again. No longer will you have to spend time waiting for a phone call with insurance agents—the Jerry team takes care of all of that!

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