In our previous post, we discussed some key characteristics to look for in a pool contractor and details to make sure to get included in your contract. We also mentioned record keeping and the fact that once you’ve laid the groundwork for communication with your pool contractor, you want to be proactive about setting expectations and determining continued communication throughout the process, in order to ensure that everyone remains on the same page and careful records are kept.
Planning for Your New Pool, Step 10: Create Ongoing Communication Expectations
The communication with your contractor should not end once a contract is in place — that’s just one of the first (albeit significant) forms of communication. Before they’ve even broken ground, make sure you’ve discussed a target completion date as well as issues (such as weather) that may cause delays. Then, as your project gets started, you’ll want to discuss how many times per week you should expect to receive a formal update on the overall progress. (You do not want to simply ask a crew member of the status; this could cause issues between crew members and foremen. Instead, use the same point person for all updates and communications.)
Planning for Your New Pool, Step 11: Keep Track of All Communications
Since your home is probably among your greatest financial assets, safeguarding it is worth every minute and dime you invest. It would be nice if you didn’t have to be concerned about protecting this asset, but you really need to be diligent about doing so throughout the building process. Also be sure to determine the communication method that will be used (voicemail, text, e-mail), and agree to use a single agreed-upon method consistently to help keep all communications in a single place and on record. (Some contractors may use a client portal for this purpose, allowing for uploading photos as well as tracking messages related to a project.)
Planning for Your New Pool, Step 12: Keep Your Own Records
As the project progresses, make sure you know what permits are required and that you see proof that each of them has been pulled. If any scope changes or requests occur along the way, make sure they’re in writing and that any responses to your requests are also in writing; again, you want a paper trail in case any issues do come up. On that note, keep your own journal or spreadsheet to track milestones and completion dates so you know what has already been done and what steps will come next. For future reference, be sure to get confirmation of any warranties along with any information or documentation you’ll need to cash in on any, should you have a need.
By being vigilant and taking steps to ensure effective ongoing communication with your contractor, you’ll make sure that the project progresses and that your wish list for your new outdoor oasis becomes a reality!
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Since 1979 Lyon Financial has made the backyard resort dream come true for over 500,000 families across the U.S. Through our solid relationships with more than 3,000 pool contractors and our continued commitment to putting our clients first, we have built a reputation as the first choice in providing pool financing solutions. For more information, visit lyonfinancial.net or call (877) 754-5966 today.
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