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Pool’s & Spas

Pool & Spa Inspection Checklist

To have adequate and functional water flow through the pool system, there are several things that need to be in good shape:

  • There has to be enough water in the pool or spa. Check the level of the water.
  • There shouldn’t be any water leaks at the plumbing connections or equipment.
  • All of the valves should be fully open.
  • There shouldn’t be any trapped air in the system. Air at the filter tank should be purged routinely
  • The skimmer and main drain should be clear of blockages and debris. Skimmers require cleaning.
  • The strainer pot at the pump should be cleaned routinely
  • There might be an imbalance of the water chemistry, causing scaling. Check for scale-causing clogging or restriction of water flow.
  • The heater should be on and activated. The gas shut-off valve should be open. The switch should be on. Check for a pilot light, ignition, or flame at the fuel-fired heater. Check the level in the propane storage tank.
  • The thermostat should be connected, active, and set properly.

The following inspection checklist was adapted from the guidelines recommended by the National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF). Use the checklist as a starting point.

Any home owner or new home buyer can perform these tasks; however there is a need for some knowledge and is always recommended to hire a professional home inspector especially when electricity and water is involved...

The inspector should check for the following:

  • Adequate fencing, gates, barriers, alarms, and/or other protective devices are installed.
  • Adequate storage space is provided for equipment.
  • Decks around pool are not cluttered.
  • The pool is covered when not in use.
  • Surfaces leading to the pool, including the deck and steps, are slip-resistant.
  • Decks on all sides of the pool meet minimum safety standards.
  • The deck is separated from the pool wall perimeter.
  • There are no standing puddles on the deck.
  • All ladders, stanchions, chairs, and rails have treads with a contrasting color coating or tile on both the top and vertical rise.
  • No unpleasant odors or irritating fumes are apparent
  • No physical damage is apparent at the pool equipment
  • Main drain grates are bolted securely to the pool’s bottom.
  • Grates are visible from the deck, with no apparent damage.
  • Drain covers are installed.
  • Water return inlets are installed.
Handsome man relaxing at the spa in a hot tub
Father and son having fun on the pool

The inspector should check for the following: Part II

  • The pool is vacuumed daily.
  • No debris is visible. The water is clean.
  • There’s no discoloration of the water.
  • There is no visible algae growth.
  • The pool water is tested at the frequency required or desired.
  • All water quality and chemical levels were within acceptable ranges as of the most current test.
  • Bacteriological water analysis is performed on a regular basis.
  • The water temperature is maintained within acceptable levels and is appropriate for the primary activities being conducted in the pool.
  • The water temperature has been measured and recorded.
  • The type of heater is identified.
  • The efficiency and BTU ratings of the heater are identified.
  • The heater is installed on a level, non-combustible base.
  • Safety devices are installed on the heater
  • Check valves between the heater and filter are installed.
  • Check valves between the heater and filter are installed.
  • Bonding and grounding are visible.
  • The heater is installed downstream of the pump and filter.
  • A solar-heating system is installed.
  • The solar-heating system type is identified.
Spa with whirlpool and sauna with beautiful sunrise views
Happy attractive couple relaxing in spa swimming pool
  • The solar-heating system is active.
  • Pool chemicals are stored a safe distance away from the heater.
  • Adequate clearances around the heater are maintained.
  • Coping stones and tiles are not chipped, cracked or loose.
  • The pool shell appears smooth, without readily visible defects.
  • There is no visible surface staining.
  • The water level appears to be maintained to allow for the removal of floating debris.
  • The water level appears at the proper height to allow continuous overflow of water into the gutters or skimmers.
  • Skimmer weirs, skimmer baskets, deck covers, and flow-adjustment devices are installed.
  • Lights are installed and are operational.
  • The type, number and wattage of deck lighting are identified.

The inspector should check for the following: Part III

  • The number of underwater lights is noted.
  • GFCIs are installed.
  • Electrical wiring is not passing directly over the pool or spa.
  • Hose bibs are installed near the pool.
  • No apparent defects or signs of repair are observed at the diving board.
  • The manufacturer of the diving board is visible on the board itself.
  • The hair and lint strainer basket is clean of debris.
  • The hair and lint strainer basket is clean of debris.
  • The type of pipe has been identified.
  • Pipes and fittings are not leaking.
  • Pipes are supported adequately
  • Pipes are not showing signs of calcification, corrosion or deterioration.
  • Air pressure-relief valves are installed on all pressure filter tanks
  • Filter tanks are accessible.
  • The filter’s brand is identified.
  • A clean sight glass or visual outfall of at least 3 feet has been provided.
  • The pressurized filter tanks and hair and lint traps are not leaking and are properly sealed.
  • All piping, filters and components that are part of the system are labeled, tagged, color-coded, or otherwise identified.
  • A spa is installed.
  • A spa cover is installed.
  • No physical damage is apparent at the spa.
  • The emergency shut-off switch for the spa is installed and clearly labeled.
  • The spa appears clean and adequately maintained.
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March 1, 2022
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To have adequate and functional water flow through the pool system, there are several things that need to be in good shape.
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