Pool leaks most commonly occur at joints or where different materials meet. The most frequent leak spots include:

• The Pool Skimmer: Where the plastic skimmer meets the pool's liner or shell.

• The Pool Liner: Tears can develop in vinyl liners, especially those between 5 and 20 years old. Leaks also occur around the liner's edge.

• Fittings and Accessories: Areas around return lines, the main drain, and pool lights are common culprits.

• Pool Equipment: The pump, filter, and filter housing can also leak.

While leaks in underground pipes are less common, they can be costly to fix. It's usually best to check the more common spots before investigating the plumbing system.

Yes, you will need building permits for an inground pool, and your pool installation company should pull them for you. The permit filing fee will usually sit between $400 and $1,800, and it should appear on your contract or invoice. You may want to confirm with your contractor that they will pull all necessary permits. You might also need a permit for a new fence, as many municipalities have special fencing requirements for properties with pools. A fence permit costs between $50 and $500. This expense may not be included in your pool installation estimate.

Shipping container pools last up to 25 years. On average, they’re more durable than the standard aboveground pool, which only lasts 10 to 20 years. Their durability is similar to fiberglass in-ground pools. Concrete pools, on the other hand, outlive almost any other type of pool. They can last indefinitely as long as you resurface them as needed.  

Yes, adding a pool to your property will almost always increase your homeowners insurance premiums. This is because pools are considered a greater liability due to their potentially hazardous nature, and the added replacement cost of the pool is factored into your home's rebuilding cost when considering coverage limits. The amount of the increase can range from as little as $50 to a few hundred dollars more per year, depending on your insurance provider, location, current coverage, and the safety features installed. Before building a pool, it is highly recommended to contact your insurance agent to get an estimate, discuss their specific guidelines and requirements, and factor the increased premium into your total pool installation costs.