How to choose a pool builder in Florida
Start with whether the business builds pools at all. Google files pool cleaners, repair shops and pool builders under the same category. Here, "Builds new pools: Yes" means the business's own website says so. 789 of the 1,557 listings carry that mark. "Not enough info" means the website did not say, or there was none to read. It does not mean no.
Check the license yourself
Florida law defines three pool contractor scopes. A commercial pool/spa contractor may build, repair and service any pool. A residential pool/spa contractor has the same scope on residential pools. A swimming pool/spa servicing contractor repairs, services and refinishes, and that definition does not include building a new pool. The law also separates certified contractors, who may work statewide, from registered contractors, who may work only where registered.
When a listing here says "States a contractor license", that is what the business's website says. We have not checked it. 602 listings state one. Look the number up in the license search run by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation at myfloridalicense.com before you sign anything.
Ask who pulls the permit
State law makes it unlawful to build without first getting a permit from the local enforcing agency. Ask the builder who applies for the permit, whose name goes on it, and who meets the inspector.
Settle the safety feature early
Under Florida's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act, a new residential pool needs at least one of five safety features to pass its final inspection: an enclosure that meets the barrier requirements, an approved safety cover, exit alarms on the doors and windows that open to the pool, self-closing and self-latching doors, or a pool alarm. A barrier has to stand at least 4 feet high on the outside. 175 listings say they build or repair screen enclosures. If you want a screen enclosure or a fence to count as your barrier, ask the builder to confirm in writing that it will, because that choice shapes the design and the quote.
Pick the material before you compare quotes
282 listings say they build in gunite or concrete, 107 install fiberglass and 65 work with vinyl liners.
Read the rating with the count
A perfect rating from four reviews tells you less than a slightly lower one from three hundred. Read the one-star reviews on Google and see whether the owner answered.
Ask about storm season
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, peaking on September 10. Ask how the builder secures it when a storm is forecast and what a storm does to the schedule in your contract.
Questions for the first call
Do your own crews build the pool, or do you subcontract parts of it? What does the warranty cover, in writing, and who backs it? 263 listings mention a warranty and 463 say they offer financing, so ask who the lender is. Can I visit a pool you finished more than two years ago?