Pool Inspection Checklist: Essential Things to Look For

Few household activities are more peaceful than lounging by the pool, but there’s some work to do before the relaxation can begin. Every pool, whether old or new, must be regularly inspected to prevent potential issues, comply with local building codes, and ensure it’s safe for swimming. To help you dip your toes in the water, we’ve created a pool inspection checklist that covers all the key information.

Pool Inspection Supplies List

Several tools and supplies are needed to inspect and prepare a pool for use. Here are the essentials:

• Pool pole

• Leaf skimmer

• Pool vacuum

• Pool water analysis kit

• pH balancer

• Calcium balancer

• Alkalinity balance

• Chlorine (liquid or tablet)

Pool Inspection Checklist by Area

Download Checklist Here

Pool inspection requires keen attention to multiple details, ranging from the state of the water itself to the plumbing and electrical components. It’s a lot to keep track of and requires specialized knowledge, so hiring a professional pool inspector in your area is often worth the money. 

However, we’ve listed all the major bullet points for individuals comfortable inspecting a pool themselves and sorted them into easy-to-follow categories. 

Water Quality

• Water is clear, colorless, and the bottom of the pool is visible

• pH level is between 7.2 and 7.8 (ideally 7.4)

• Chlorine concentration is between 1 and 3 ppm

• Alkalinity is between 80 and 120 ppm

• Calcium hardness is between 200 and 400 ppm

Safety Features

• Pool is fenced in according to local regulations

• Pool fence doesn’t sag or lean and has all of its posts intact

• Pool alarms make noise when tested and have new batteries

• Pool cover fastens securely, has no tears or holes, and doesn’t sag

• A stocked first aid kit is nearby

• Drain covers are in place and show no signs of damage, cracking, or loosening 

• Pool gate swings closed on its own and latches securely

• Pool ladders/handrails are sturdy and show no signs of rust, mold, or algae

• Surfaces leading to the pool are slip-resistant

Pool Structure

• Pool walls and floor have no visible cracks, bulges, or rust stains

• Coping has no visible cracks, bulges, loose tiles, or tripping hazards

• Decking has no visible cracks, bulges, low areas, or loose tiles

• Pool liner shows no signs of peeling, flaking, or discoloration

• Area shows no signs of soil shifting, such as uneven water level, uneven decking, surface cracks, or a gap between the coping and pool shell

• Shell and skimmer show no signs of water leakage, such as wet spots or sudden drops in water level

Plumbing

• Suction fittings are properly secured, have their covers, and show no visible damage

• Drainage gates are properly secured and show no signs of damage or clogging

• Pump is running, primed with water, has no visible leaks, and makes no unusual noises

• Pump is functioning at a normal pressure range between 12 and 17 psi

• Filter shows no warning signs, such as reduced water flow, discolored pool water, or strange noises

• Filter is functioning at a normal pressure range of around 10 psi

• Pipes and fittings don’t leak and show no signs of calcification or deterioration

• Suction lines show no signs of leaking or clogging, such as low suction, reduced water flow, or air bubbles in the pump basket

Electrical

• Electrical equipment is properly grounded and bonded

• Lights turn on and off and provide sufficient visibility

• No underground wiring within five feet of the pool

• Junction box is weather-proofed and positioned at least four feet from the pool wall

• All outlets and light fixtures within 20 feet of the pool have GFCI protection 

• No electrical lighting lower than 10 feet above the pool’s surface

• No telephone wiring lower than 22.5 feet above the pool’s surface

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Professional Pool Inspector?

A pool inspection costs $140 on average, but it can range from $125 to $250, depending on the size and type of the pool. Large, in-ground pools are more expensive to inspect than small, aboveground pools. Your location is also important, as pool inspections are more common and therefore less expensive in warm-weather states. Finally, your pool equipment dictates the inspection price; add-ons like diving boards, hot tubs, and waterslides increase the inspection fee.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro Pool Inspector

Homeowners can and should perform routine pool inspections, checking details like water quality, pool filters, and safety equipment. However, most homeowners cannot assess a pool as thoroughly as a professional inspector can. It’s worth hiring a pro once a year to ensure your pool is safe, functional, and up to code. Although it’s more expensive than the DIY route, hiring a professional can save money in the long term by identifying issues before they get out of hand. For comparison, average pool repairs cost between $240 and $1,160.