.png)
Selecting A Pool Builder
These tips are designed to guide you in choosing the right pool builder. Remember, some companies may intentionally complicate the process, making it difficult to compare options fairly. Be clear, direct, and firm about your expectations—how you want the proposal formatted and exactly what it should include. In the end, we’d be honored to be your chosen pool contractor.
Click any panel below to explore more details.
Thinking about a specific pool builder? Use our direct to the N.C. Licensing Board to check if the company or individual is properly licensed and reputable in the state of North Carolina.
The relationship between you and your pool builder should feel natural and comfortable — trust your instincts. Take the time to view their work firsthand and speak with both current and past clients. This step is crucial. Visit active job sites, talk with homeowners, and observe the team in action. Ask yourself: are you speaking with a dedicated sales rep, or someone directly involved in the project, like the owner?
It’s also wise to arrange a meeting with the actual team who will be working on your project. Share your vision, ask questions, and make sure there's a mutual understanding. Feeling confident and at ease with the people bringing your outdoor space to life is key to a successful experience from start to finish.
There’s no such thing as a silly question — if it matters to you, it matters to us. Don’t hesitate to ask about anything that concerns you, no matter how small it may seem. Clear communication is key to creating a space you’ll love.
Identify what matters most to you and create a prioritized list of your requirements to share with potential pool builders. Whether it's craftsmanship, reputation, unique features, design preferences, or budget considerations, clearly outlining your expectations will help ensure you're aligned with the right team from the start.
Ask about timelines and payment schedules. Keep in mind there may be home owners associations that will require plan submission prior to starting your project.
A company’s website is a great starting point — but not the only one. It should offer clear, transparent information about the contractor’s standards, experience, and values, along with multiple ways to get in touch, including email, office, and mobile contacts. Look closely at the photo gallery: are the pools shown truly their own work, or are they using stock images or projects built by others? (Every project featured on our website was designed and completed by Charlotte Pools and Spas.)
Pay attention to how the company presents pricing. Do they lead with too-good-to-be-true numbers or vague "starting at" figures? That may signal a bait-and-switch approach. Also, look beyond the company name — are you working with experienced professionals, or a franchise with limited support and minimal oversight?
Finally, consider their long-term reputation for service and quality. How long have the individuals behind the company truly been in the industry? A luxury pool project is a significant investment — make sure the team you choose has the expertise, integrity, and lasting commitment to stand behind their work for years to come.
Communication is KEY! There should be a clear and consistent line of communication throughout the pool building process. Lack in communication should be a huge red flag! On the other hand, talking with too many pool builders can be counter productive and confusing.