Adding a pool to your backyard should be exciting, but it’s also a big decision that involves some serious planning. Picking the right pool builder can make or break the whole experience. A good contractor should listen to what you want, stay on schedule, and follow through on the details. A not-so-great one can leave you with unfinished work, surprise costs, or worse—having to start over with someone new. That’s why it’s smart to do your homework before signing a contract.
Many homeowners in Gilbert jump into the process thinking all pool builders are basically the same. They glance over a quote, trust a handshake, and hope for the best. But there are warning signs that should never be ignored. From fuzzy pricing to poor communication, a few red flags early on can save you headaches later. Whether you’re building a pool from scratch or upgrading an old one, knowing what to watch out for during those early conversations with contractors can help protect your time, money, and peace of mind.
Unclear Or Vague Estimates
It might seem harmless when a pool contractor gives you a simple quote over the phone or scribbles numbers on a notepad. But a vague estimate is one of the earliest signs something could be off. If the estimate doesn’t clearly explain what you’re paying for, you could be setting yourself up for surprise charges down the line.
A professional quote should break down labor, materials, permits, equipment, and extra features like waterfalls or lighting. Without that detail, a contractor can easily add costs later, blaming unexpected changes or price shifts. By then, you’re already committed, and your choices are limited.
Things to look for in a clear estimate:
- Lists of all construction phases, including excavation, plumbing, and surface finishes
- Itemized materials with brands or types (like concrete, tile, or decking options)
- Notes on allowances for things like lighting or landscaping
- Estimated timeframes with milestones
- Payment schedule tied to progress, not calendar dates
If a pool contractor is uncomfortable sharing details or brushes off your questions with “we’ll figure that out later,” it’s a sign they may not want to be held accountable. A quote is more than a guess—it’s part of how they communicate and manage a job. If it feels like clarification is needed from the start, it won’t get clearer as the project moves forward.
Lack Of Proper Licensing And Insurance
Every pool contractor working in Gilbert needs to be licensed with the state. That license means they’ve passed certain tests and are approved to handle construction at a professional level. It also means there’s some protection in place, because licensed builders are held to higher standards. If someone says licensing isn’t necessary or claims their work speaks for itself, that’s a red flag.
Insurance is just as important. Without it, you could be left dealing with damage or injuries that happen during the project. Pool construction involves digging, electrical work, concrete, plumbing, and sometimes heavy machinery. A simple issue can escalate quickly if the people on site aren’t covered.
Here’s what you should ask for:
- Current contractor license number and documentation
- Proof of general liability insurance
- Proof of workers’ compensation coverage (if they’re using a crew)
One local homeowner learned the hard way when a project stalled halfway through and the builder disappeared. It turned out he wasn’t even licensed. The homeowner had little legal standing and ended up paying a second company to finish the job. All of that could’ve been avoided with one phone call verifying the license status before starting.
Licenses and insurance aren’t just red tape. They’re tools that protect you when things don’t go as planned. If a pool contractor hesitates or gets defensive when asked, that’s not a good sign. A reliable builder is usually eager to share legitimate paperwork. It’s part of earning your trust.
Poor Communication Skills
Even the most skilled pool builder will struggle if they can’t communicate well. The construction process moves through several phases, and questions or hiccups are bound to happen. When your contractor is hard to reach, takes days to respond, or gives unclear answers, things can slip fast. Jobs get delayed. Decisions get misunderstood. Problems grow.
Good communication starts from the first meeting. A reliable pool builder should explain their process, tell you what’s coming next, and be open to your suggestions and concerns. If they talk over you or get annoyed by basic questions, that attitude probably won’t go away after you sign a contract.
A few signs of poor communication to look out for:
- Delays in responding to emails or phone calls
- Confusing language with no clear timeline or expectations
- Getting defensive when asked to clarify something
- Ignoring your ideas or brushing off your preferences
- Not following up after promising to send info
One couple in Gilbert shared that their builder ghosted them for two weeks right after they put down a deposit. Turns out, the builder had taken on too many projects and wasn’t managing them well. They ended up walking away and found someone else who communicated clearly and showed up when promised.
If communication feels off during the interview stage, imagine what it’ll be like once they’ve dug a giant hole in your yard. Trust your gut and work with someone who values being on the same page.
Negative Reviews Or Lack Of References
Checking reviews might feel obvious, but it’s still one of the best ways to get a feel for how a pool builder treats their clients. Look for repeated issues in customer feedback. If multiple people mention delayed timelines, poor workmanship, or money disagreements, take that as a pretty strong hint things might go wrong.
It’s not always about having a perfect five-star record. Everyone gets tough clients at times. What matters most is how the builder responds to the feedback. Do they try to fix the situation? Do they own their mistakes? Silence and excuses are two bad signs you don’t want to ignore.
Also, ask for direct references. Some contractors will only show off their best work or stage a few great photos. Actually talking to someone who had a pool built by them six or twelve months ago gives you insight into how the team really works. If a contractor avoids connecting you with past clients, that’s a sign they might not want their past work checked too closely.
When reading reviews or talking to references, keep these in mind:
- Do the finished projects hold up over time?
- Were the contractor and crew respectful and professional?
- Was the budget followed?
- Were there change orders or surprises that became problems later?
Your pool is a big investment. Spend the time to dig up accurate, real feedback before handing someone a contract. A little research goes a long way in avoiding regrets.
Unwritten Guarantees And Warranties
You’ve probably heard promises like “we stand behind our work” or “our pools are built to last.” That sounds great until something breaks and no one picks up the phone. Verbal agreements won’t hold up when it comes to enforcing guarantees or calling in a warranty.
Every warranty, guarantee, or service promise should be written clearly into your contract. And that document needs to outline exactly what’s covered, how long protection lasts, and what steps to take if something goes wrong. If those details aren’t given upfront, it opens the door for disagreements later.
Some of the more common missteps happen when:
- Contractors promise to handle repairs but give no timeline
- Verbal warranties conflict with vague contract language
- Coverage rules aren’t clear about what voids the warranty
- Maintenance expectations are not written down
Don’t be afraid to press for clear documents. A professional pool builder should already have written versions of their guarantees ready to go. If they say “we’ll write that in after you sign,” it’s usually better to walk away. A rushed or unclear contract never works in your favor.
Trust Your Gut When Choosing A Pool Builder
At the end of the day, no checklist beats your instincts. If you’ve met with a contractor and you’re left feeling confused, uneasy, or pressured, pause and reassess. Every pool project is different, but being heard and respected during the planning phase should never be too much to ask.
Rushing through a contractor interview just to get things moving fast can cost you later. Your pool should add joy and value to your home, not stress or regret. That’s why gathering details, checking references, and paying attention to red flags matter so much. Listen closely, ask questions, and go with the builder who gives you real confidence, not just flashy promises.
If you’re looking to enhance your backyard with a pool that fits your lifestyle and space, choosing the right pool builder makes all the difference. At Outdoor Concepts, we take the time to understand your vision and turn it into a relaxing, custom outdoor retreat you’ll enjoy for years to come.