Top 10 Pool Inspection Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced pool inspectors make mistakes. The difference between a good inspector and a great one isn't perfection—it's learning from errors and implementing systems to prevent them.

After analyzing thousands of inspection reports and interviewing dozens of pool industry professionals, we've identified the ten most common mistakes that plague pool inspectors. More importantly, we'll show you exactly how to avoid them.

Why Mistakes Matter

Pool inspection mistakes aren't just embarrassing—they can be dangerous and costly:

• Safety risks - Missed hazards can lead to drownings or injuries
• Legal liability - Errors can result in lawsuits and insurance claims
• Lost reputation - Word spreads fast in local markets
• Failed re-inspections - Wasted time and money for everyone
• Compliance issues - Fines and penalties from regulatory agencies

Let's dive into the top 10 mistakes and how to prevent them.

Mistake 1: Skipping the Safety Barrier Inspection

The Problem:

Many inspectors do a quick visual scan of the pool fence rather than a thorough assessment. They miss issues like:

• Height variations along the fence line
• Gate latches that don't self-close properly
• Climbable objects near the barrier
• Gaps that exceed allowable limits

The Impact:

Pool barriers are the primary protection against unsupervised access, especially for young children. California requires a minimum 60-inch fence height with specific gap requirements.

The Solution:

• Walk the entire perimeter, measuring height at multiple points
• Test every gate for self-closing and self-latching function
• Check for objects within 36 inches that could be used for climbing
• Measure gaps at the widest points
• Document with photos showing measurements

Real Example: An inspector in San Diego missed that a fence dipped to 54 inches at a sloped section. A toddler later accessed the pool through that area. The resulting lawsuit cost the inspector's insurance company over $200,000.

Mistake 2: Not Checking Drain Covers Properly

The Problem:

Drain cover inspection is often superficial—a quick glance to confirm something is covering the drain. Inspectors fail to:

• Verify ASTM F1346 compliance markings
• Check for cracks, damage, or wear
• Confirm secure attachment (no loose screws)
• Verify the cover matches the drain size

The Impact:

Drain entrapment is one of the most dangerous pool hazards. The Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act exists specifically because of fatal drain entrapment incidents.

The Solution:

Create a specific drain checklist:

1. Locate ALL drains (main drains, skimmers, spa drains)
2. Look for ASTM F1346 stamp or label
3. Check manufacture date (some covers have expiration)
4. Test for secure attachment
5. Inspect for cracks or damage
6. Verify proper sizing
7. Document each drain with close-up photos

Mistake 3: Ignoring Secondary Water Features

The Problem:

Inspectors focus on the main pool and forget about:

• Attached spas and hot tubs
• Water features (fountains, waterfalls)
• Wading pools
• Splash pads
• Ornamental ponds near the pool

The Impact:

Each water feature has its own safety requirements. A spa with a missing drain cover is just as dangerous as the main pool.

The Solution:

• Document every water feature on the property
• Apply the same inspection standards to each one
• Note water features on your initial walkthrough
• Create separate sections in your report for each feature

Mistake 4: Poor Photo Documentation

The Problem:

Common photo documentation failures include:

• Blurry or poorly lit images
• No context (can't tell what you're looking at)
• Missing key areas
• No photos of compliant features
• Inconsistent naming or organization

The Impact:

Photos are your evidence. Poor documentation leaves you vulnerable in disputes and makes reports less valuable to clients.

The Solution:

Follow the 4 Cs of inspection photography:

1. Clear - Sharp focus, good lighting
2. Contextual - Show location and surroundings
3. Complete - Cover all inspection areas
4. Captioned - Label or annotate each photo

Photo checklist minimum:

• Overall pool views (4 angles)
• All gates and latches
• All drain covers (close-up and in-context)
• Equipment pad overview and close-ups
• All safety features
• Any deficiencies with measurements

Mistake 5: Using Outdated Compliance Standards

The Problem:

Pool safety codes update regularly. Inspectors using old standards may:

• Apply incorrect height requirements
• Miss new safety features that are now required
• Use outdated drain cover specifications
• Reference repealed regulations

The Impact:

Incorrect compliance determinations can expose you to liability and result in failed reinspections.

The Solution:

• Subscribe to code update notifications from your state
• Review ASTM standards annually
• Attend continuing education courses
• Update your templates when codes change
• Keep dated reference materials for when properties were built

Key standards to track:

• ASTM F1346 (Safety covers and drain covers)
• ASTM F1908 (Fencing)
• Virginia Graeme Baker Act (Federal)
• State-specific codes (CA AB 3205, etc.)

Mistake 6: Rushing Through Equipment Checks

The Problem:

Inspectors often give equipment a cursory look without:

• Running all systems to verify operation
• Recording manufacturer and model information
• Checking for leaks under pressure
• Listening for unusual sounds
• Testing safety shutoffs

The Impact:

Equipment issues can affect pool safety and lead to expensive surprises for buyers and homeowners.

The Solution:

Allocate proper time for equipment inspection:

1. Start systems at the beginning of your visit
2. Listen and observe while inspecting other areas
3. Return for detailed assessment after systems have been running
4. Document all equipment with serial numbers visible
5. Test safety features like GFCI outlets and bonding

Mistake 7: Not Testing Water Quality

The Problem:

Many inspectors skip water testing or use inaccurate test methods because:

• They view it as outside their scope
• They don't have proper equipment
• They're trying to save time
• They assume water quality isn't a safety issue

The Impact:

Poor water chemistry is a health hazard and can indicate equipment problems. Clients expect water testing as part of a complete inspection.

The Solution:

Include basic water testing in every inspection:

Invest in quality test strips or a digital tester for consistent results.

Mistake 8: Missing Gate and Alarm Functions

The Problem:

Inspectors check that gates and alarms exist but don't verify they function properly:

• Gates that don't self-close from all positions
• Latches that don't engage consistently
• Alarms with dead batteries
• Door alarms that have been disabled
• Alarms that don't meet decibel requirements

The Impact:

Non-functional safety devices provide false confidence and zero protection.

The Solution:

Test every function multiple times:

Gates:

• Open fully and release—must self-close
• Open partially and release—must self-close
• Verify latch engages automatically
• Check from both sides

Alarms:

• Test activation (trigger the sensor)
• Verify audible alarm sounds
• Check volume meets requirements (50+ decibels)
• Confirm reset function works
• Check battery status

Mistake 9: Incomplete Report Documentation

The Problem:

Reports that are technically complete but practically useless:

• Missing client information
• Vague descriptions without specifics
• No photos to support findings
• Recommendations without priorities
• Missing inspector certification

The Impact:

Incomplete reports frustrate clients, invite questions, and provide poor legal protection.

The Solution:

Use a comprehensive report template that forces completeness:

Required sections:

1. Property identification
2. Client information
3. Inspection scope and limitations
4. Pool specifications
5. Safety feature assessment (with photos)
6. Equipment evaluation (with photos)
7. Water quality results
8. Findings summary
9. Prioritized recommendations
10. Inspector certification and signature

Mistake 10: Failing to Explain Findings to Clients

The Problem:

Inspectors hand off reports without explanation:

• Technical jargon clients don't understand
• No verbal walkthrough of key findings
• Not answering questions
• Missing opportunity to build relationships

The Impact:

Confused clients call back repeatedly. Worse, they may ignore important safety issues they don't understand.

The Solution:

Schedule 10-15 minutes at the end of each inspection to:

1. Walk through major findings in person
2. Explain what's compliant and what needs attention
3. Prioritize recommendations verbally
4. Answer questions
5. Provide your contact information for follow-up

This simple step dramatically improves client satisfaction and referrals.

How to Prevent These Mistakes

Implement these systems to catch errors before they become problems:

1. Use a Digital Inspection Platform

Software like PoolVerify guides you through each inspection step, ensuring nothing is missed. Checklists, photo prompts, and automated calculations eliminate common errors.

2. Develop a Systematic Approach

Follow the same inspection sequence every time:

1. Perimeter and barriers
2. Deck and surrounding area
3. Pool surface and structure
4. Safety features
5. Equipment
6. Water features
7. Water testing
8. Documentation review

3. Create Pre-Inspection and Post-Inspection Checklists

• Pre-inspection: Equipment check, template loaded, camera charged
• Post-inspection: All photos uploaded, all fields complete, signature obtained

4. Schedule Adequate Time

Don't book back-to-back inspections. Allow:

• 45-60 minutes for residential pools
• 90+ minutes for commercial or complex properties
• 15 minutes buffer between appointments

5. Continue Your Education

Stay sharp with:

• Annual certification renewal courses
• Industry conferences and workshops
• Online training and webinars
• Peer networking and knowledge sharing

Ready to eliminate inspection mistakes? PoolVerify's guided inspection platform walks you through every step, prompts for required photos, and ensures compliant reports every time.

Start Your Free Trial →

The best inspectors aren't those who never make mistakes—they're the ones who learn from every inspection and continuously improve their process.