Once you are ready to build a custom pool, the first step is choosing a builder, and it is a decision to make carefully. A pool is a big investment, and the company will spend a lot of time at your home, so you want a contractor you can trust to exceed your expectations. Doing your research first helps ensure you are happy with the results. Here is what to look for.

Licensed and bonded

Make sure the company holds a valid license. You can verify this on the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC) website, searching by name or license number to confirm the license is current and to see information about the owner. Check for any complaints, too. The ROC site also shows whether the company is bonded, which is important because it protects you financially if there are issues with the project.

First impression

Pay attention to your first impression when you meet a potential builder. Are they organized and on time? Are the designer and staff friendly and polite? If you visit a worksite, notice whether it is clean, whether the workers are parked respectfully, and what your overall impression is. These small signals often reflect how the whole project will go.

Referrals

Referrals are essential. A good company can provide contact information for past and current clients as well as subcontractors and suppliers. Ask clients why they chose the company and whether they would do so again. Then ask the subcontractors and suppliers a revealing question: who would they want to build their own pool? If they name the contractor you are considering, ask why. If they do not, ask what they know about them.

What about price?

It is tempting to choose the lowest bid, but remember you want to enjoy this pool for many years, so it is often worth paying more upfront to avoid problems down the road. Your contractor should be able to explain exactly what is included in the estimate. If a price seems unusually high or low compared to other companies, ask questions to understand why.

High-end pool building in Tucson

Pools by Design is a luxury pool builder in Tucson, and as the only Master Pools Guild member in Southern Arizona, we have extensive experience designing and building custom pools. We are happy to answer any questions about the process and welcome you to verify our credentials.

Frequently asked questions

How do I verify a pool builder’s license in Arizona?

Search the Arizona ROC website by name or license number to confirm the license is current, check for complaints, and see whether the company is bonded.

Why does bonding matter?

Being bonded protects you financially if something goes wrong with the project.

Should I choose the lowest bid?

Not necessarily. Since you will enjoy the pool for years, it is often worth paying more upfront for quality, as long as the contractor explains what the estimate includes.