Pre-Purchase Inspection

Look for hairline cracks in plaster

Map every crack — short hairlines are cosmetic; structural cracks need a full inspection.

Check for metal or copper stains

Brown/grey blotches under tile usually point to old well water or sacrificial-anode issues.

Inspect waterline tile

Loose, missing, or chipped tiles → factor a tile redo into your offer.

Inspect the bond beam (top edge of pool)

Spalled or crumbling beam means a costly structural repair before resurfacing.

Check coping stones and mortar joints

Hollow-sounding stones (tap test) need to be reset.

Inspect the deck for settling/cracks

Cracks more than 1/4" wide are slip hazards and water-intrusion risks.

Note pump brand, model, year, and condition

Variable-speed since 2021 saves $400+/yr in electric. Single-speed = factor a replacement in.

Note filter type and condition

Cartridge filter pleats should be intact. DE grids: check for tears.

Heater present? Test ignition / heat-pump start

Heat pumps 10+ years old often need replacement soon.

Salt cell — model, age, current amp output

Cells typically last 5 years in SWFL. Look at the controller display for warnings.

Pool light: turn on and off

LED lights cost $400–800 to swap; incandescent retrofits add another $200.

Automation system (Pentair Screenlogic / Jandy iAquaLink)?

Note app integration — replacement modules can be $500–1500.

Verify pool barrier / fence

Florida code requires a 4 ft barrier with self-closing/latching gate.

Check door & gate alarms

Required if home has doors opening directly to the pool area.

Confirm anti-entrapment drain covers

VGB-compliant covers required since 2008. Cracked or missing → fail.

Bonding/grounding wire visible at equipment

All metal pool equipment must be bonded. Missing wire = electrocution risk.

Pull permits for the property

Look for unpermitted equipment or surface work in the county records.

Pool cage in good repair (if present)

Bent uprights, torn panels, rust at base — list each for negotiation.

Look for past green-pool damage

Stained surfaces, equipment pitting → previous owner let it slip.

Ask seller for service records

12 months of service receipts or photos give you confidence the pool was cared for.