There was no bonding wire visible at the metal patio cover within five feet of the pool. This is an electrical safety requirement and is noted as a safety issue on my inspection report with a recommendation for follow-up by licensed pool contractor or electrician for further evaluation and proper repairs as needed.
We noted more than several cracks extending up the sides of the swimming pool (Some are pictured). Cracks in gunite pools can happen for a variety of reasons including soil movement over time, slope creep, poor workmanship. thermal expansion and other reasons. While small cracks in pools are not uncommon they are seldom a cause for leaks. Larger cracks like these stand a greater chance of leakage. Typically they can be repaired using a variety of different techniques. All cracks should be repaired. We recommend contacting a pool contractor about repair options and prevention techniques. If large cracks are accompanied by other signs like skirting which is tilting away more than typical it could be indicative of soil instability in which case a soils engineer may be needed.
The pump shed was accessed but the pump, sand filter, and related piping (decoupled sections) were not readily accessible for an inspection due to storage and equipment. The pool equipment appeared to be winterized. Recommend further evaluation by a pool equipment specialist for functional start-up and operational testing.
Drain Covers- Drain covers are often an overlooked item in a pool inspection. This is because the drain could be obscured from view (from cloudy water) or other reasons. So pay particular attention to them to make sure they are in good working order with no cracks or gaps. No one should use a pool with a missing drain cover. This is because the suction created by the pool pump from the drain can cause an injury or drowning as body parts are sucked into the drain opening. Small children are particularly at risk. Hair can become sucked into the drain and cause a drowning. Anti entrapment drain covers are now required. An anti entrapment drain cover does not sit flat (flush) to the pool.
The article: “Can a Real Estate Agent Sign the Home Inspection Agreement on Behalf of the Client?” is a good article. However if you are having to make a distinction between “apparent authority” and “implied authority” you are either already in court, or you have already assumed (unnecessary) risk by having an agent sign your contract, and now concerned if everyone is effectively covered under your contract.
Why assume unnecessary risks based on the potential for poor assumptions, misrepresentation, or incomplete interpretation - and any associated legal costs to qualify those risks.
Sometimes good business decisions are made by simply saying “no thank-you” and moving onto the next opportunity.
The attached photo is of a pool pump the has no bolt securing it to the platform. The second issue in this picture is the broken handle on the “hose bib.” Repairs were recommended to the client for safety and proper operation.
The attached photo is of a pool pump the has no bolt securing it to the platform. The second issue in this picture is the broken handle on the “hose bib.” Repairs were recommended to the client for safety and proper operation.
This pool has a barrier fence that is 52" tall. The gate is an outward swinging gate with self closing hinges. The latch is self latching with locking capabilities. This would meet all requirements for the pool barrier. Also the pool is covered with a heavy duty winter cover protecting anyone from falling into the pool.
The pump is the heart or the plumbing system for a pool. It draws the water from the pool in through the main drain and the weir and pushes it through the filter and the heater if there is one. The water is then sent back to the pool through the inlets.
This was my first pool inspection and I learned that the pool equipment is the main focus. Although this pool did have some algae on the liner, the gas pool heater was inop. This was a salt pool with a self filling mechanism.
I learned about Earth day and how it relates to home inspection. We decided to celebrate earth day (April 22) by encouraging homeowners to get in the garden and plant some stuff. Leaving tips and tricks as well. This has broadened my marketing abilities.
The skimmer for the pool looks to be in good shape that is kept clean. When pulling the skimmer basket out, there was plenty of suction. Additionally, after checking the skimmer for cracks; there were no cracks to be found. The weir was functioning properly, as well, the water level was mid height of the skimmer.
Pool berries are the most important thing to inspect for the client, in my opinion. These barriers are designed to help reduce any horrific drowning of a young child. Ensuring that the barrier is up to code and is designed to protect children should ease the client’s mind in knowing they have a secure swimming pool or spa.
The schedule 40 PVC pipe connecting the pool pump to the pool filtration system was damaged (cracked). Recommend repair of the damaged pipe via qualified plumbing contractor then follow-up with servicing via qualified pool contractor to verify the pool systems are functioning properly
I read the “Safety Guidelines for Home Pools” where I learned that in California, Arizona and Florida, drowning was the leading cause of accidental death in and around the home for children under the age of 5. This highlights the importance of verifying proper safety features are installed on the inspected property with a pool.
Here we have a pool pump room. There are 4 chlorinators that i am looking at. In front of me is a heat exchanger for the pool. To the right of the heater is a large sand filter. You can also see the flue, backwash controls,and strainer basket.
Pool alarms should be recommended when not present. Over 350 small children drown each year in residential pools. Door alarms, pet door alarms, Surface wave detection are available and helpful in saving a childs or pets life. Self latching pool entry doors are a must and required as well.
This is an example of a improperly bonded swimming pool pump. In addition to not being bonded at all, it is sitting on and not secured to pavers not a solid piece of concrete. the pump is also showing signs of age; chipping paint and rusting.
Swimming pool barriers/ fencing should be at least 48 inches above grade measured on the exterior of the swimming pool barrier. The barrier should be constructed of sturdy horizontal and vertical members not easily climbable and have slates not greater than 4 inches apart. Entrances and exits should open outward from swimming pool and be self-closing and latching.
Pool Skimmers
A pool skimmer function is to skim the pool surface when the water level is within normal operating levels.
There is two type skimmers. A surface skimmer and a perimeter overflow system for a permanent in-ground swimming pool.
If a perimeter skimmer is installed and uses as the only skimmer system, then it should extend at least 50% around the pool perimeter.
Pool Skimmer consists of:
- Skimmer lid
- Skimmer basket
- Diverter Plate
- Weir
