That "reputable builder" thing...

[Poolnerdgrandma]

If you're looking to build a pool, you've heard to go with a "reputable builder." In 2018, we had narrowed our choice to two builders with great reputations, and picked the one that didn't try to jerk us around on the price of our desired pebbletec color.

Some thoughts, almost 3 years since pool opening:
1) Having a reputable builder didn't prevent all problems from happening. But when things went wrong they made things right.
2) Having a reputable builder didn't make the build a lot faster. But we did NOT have to give them a huge pile of money and then wait. Deposit was reasonable, as was draw schedule and final payment. They were clearly well enough capitalized that they weren't borrowing from Peter to pay Paul.
3) They are still in business. Not a small thing in this industry. Which means:
4) Warranty work has been handled quickly and correctly. We use our pool a LOT, and heat it to extend our already long season. We had a bearing go in the pump, LED lights that stopped syncing, and most recently a salt cell that required replacement.

Bottom line, I'd pay the extra for the long-term reputable business again in a heartbeat.

 

[ajw22]

You often don't know if you picked a reputable builder until he has dug a hole and has your money. We hear many stories of builders who have been in business for many years still pulling shady moves.

And good builders will never get a start if everyone will only contract with someone who has been in business for many years.

Having a good builder is golden. I still use the builder for service who built my pool 22 years ago.

 

[Poolnerdgrandma]

You often don't know if you picked a reputable builder until he has dug a hole and has your money. We hear many stories of builders who have been in business for many years still pulling shady moves.

And good builders will never get a start if everyone will only contract with someone who has been in business for many years.

Having a good builder is golden. I still use the builder for service who built my pool 22 years ago.

If someone has been in business for many years, with great reviews, references, and BBB ratings, that's no guarantee there won't be any issues. But it's less risky than with someone who is just starting out and may be learning the complexities of the business.
I'm all for great folks entering the business and learning. But I'll go with the lower risk option.