Pool & Spa Inspection Checklist Sample
by Nick Gromicko, CMI® and Ben Gromicko
We performed a sample inspection of a pool and spa facility at a condominium property. Our inspection was based on the checklist provided in InterNACHI's free, online How to Inspect Pools and Spas course. Use the details of our inspection as a starting point in developing your own checklist that fits your
inspection procedures and needs.
During the inspection, we checked the following:
- Adequate storage space was provided for equipment.
- Decks around the pool were not cluttered.
- Surfaces leading to the pool, including the deck and steps, were slip-resistant.
- Decks (surfaces) on all sides of the pool met minimum safety standards.
- The concrete surfaces were sloped properly. No indications of major cracking or settlement were observed.
- There were no standing puddles on the deck.
- All ladders, stanchions, chairs, rails, treads, plates, and other deck equipment were tightly secured in place.
- An adequate means of egress from the pool was provided.
- Steps, treads, ramps, ledges, and other protrusions into the pool were marked with a contrasting color coating or tile on both the top and vertical rise.
- No unpleasant odors or irritating fumes were apparent.
- No physical damage was apparent at the pool equipment.
- Main drain grates were bolted securely to the pool's bottom.
- Grates were visible from the deck, with no damage apparent.
- Drain covers were installed.
- Water return inlets were installed.
- The pool was reportedly vacuumed daily.
- No debris was visible. The water was clean.
- There was no discoloration of the water.
- Algae growth was not visible.
- The pool water was reportedly tested at the frequency required or desired.
- All water quality and chemical levels were reportedly within acceptable ranges during the most recent test.
- Bacteriological water analysis is reportedly performed on a regular basis.
- Water temperature was maintained within acceptable levels and was appropriate for the primary activities being conducted in the pool.
- The water temperature was reportedly measured and recorded.
- The type of heater was identified.
- Efficiency and BTU ratings of the heater were identified.
- The heater was installed on a level, non-combustible base.
- Safety devices were installed on the heater.
- The thermostat was identified and located.
- Check valves between the heater and filter were installed.
- Bonding and grounding were visible.
- The heater was installed downstream of the pump and filter.
- Adequate clearances around the heater are maintained.
- Pool chemicals were stored a safe distance away from the heater.
- Coping stones and tiles were not chipped, cracked or loose.
- The pool shell appeared smooth, without readily visible defects.
- There was no visible surface staining.
- The water level appeared to be maintained to allow for the removal of floating debris.
- The water level appeared at the proper height to allow continuous overflow of water into the gutters or skimmers.
- Skimmer weirs, skimmer baskets, deck covers, and flow-adjustment devices were installed.
- Lights were installed and were operational.
- The type, number and wattage of deck lighting were identified.
- The number of underwater lights was noted.
- GFCIs were installed.
- Electrical wiring was not passing directly over the pool or spa.
- Hose bibbs were installed near the pool.
- There was no diving board installed. No diving is permitted.
- The centrifugal pump was secured to its base and was operating quietly.
- The hair and lint strainer basket was clean of debris.
- The type of pipe was identified.
- Pipes and fittings were not leaking.
- Pipes were supported adequately.
- Pipes were not showing signs of calcification, corrosion or deterioration.
- Air pressure-relief valves were installed on all pressure filter tanks.
- Filter tanks were accessible.
- The filter's brand was identified.
- A clean sight glass or visual outfall of at least 3 feet has been provided.
- The pressurized filter tanks and hair and lint traps were not leaking and were properly sealed.
- All piping, filters and components that are part of the system were labeled, tagged, color-coded or otherwise identified.
- A spa (indoor hot tub) was installed.
- The spa was operational.
- No physical damage was apparent at the spa.
- A spa timer was installed and not reachable by a spa user.
- The emergency shut-off switch for the spa was installed and clearly labeled.
- The return drains at the bottom of the spa were installed.
- The spa appeared clean and adequately maintained.
- Safety signs were installed around the pool and spa.
- A throwing rope and attached ring buoy were installed near the pool.
- A telephone was installed near the pool.
- The HVAC system for the pool and spa area was functional.
- The thermostat was of a digital type and was functioning.
- Storage rooms, the boiler room, and other doors were labeled with safety indications.
- The fire extinguisher had not been inspected regularly. It had not been inspected for years. This is a safety hazard.
- The water fountain functioned and it was secured to the wall.
- The fixtures, toilets, showers, doors, and interior surfaces in the men's and women's bathrooms adjacent to the pool and spa facility were operational.
- All windows were operational.
- All doors were operational and had no visible trip hazards.
- The exits signs, alarms, emergency lights, and related systems were tested by a third-party contractor.
Pools and spas can be relaxing and therapeutic additions to any home or multi-unit housing structure, but only if they're safe and properly maintained. Providing comprehensive Pool & Spa Inspections can increase the users' safety and enjoyment, as well as provide inspectors with a profitable revenue stream.
Take InterNACHI's free, online How to Inspect Pools & Spas course.
