Your pool company will be in your backyard every week, handling chemicals and expensive equipment. Here is what to check before you hire.
1. Training and certifications
Ask whether technicians hold recognized pool certifications, such as CPO (Certified Pool & Spa Operator), and whether they are trained in safe pool water discharge. Toronto and other municipalities regulate where pool water can be drained.
2. Licensing for gas work
In Ontario, gas appliance work, including pool heaters, must be done by technicians licensed by the TSSA. If a company installs or repairs gas heaters, ask to confirm their licensing.
3. Insurance
Make sure the company carries liability insurance in case something goes wrong on your property.
4. Exactly what is included
“Weekly service” varies. Ask for a written list: baskets, backwashing, water testing, chemical feeders, vacuuming, skimming, waterline cleaning. Is vacuuming included or extra?
5. How chemicals and parts are billed
Some companies include chemicals and some don’t. Neither is wrong, but you should know in advance. (At Poolmaster, chemicals and parts are invoiced separately.)
6. Equipment knowledge and parts access
A company that services and installs equipment of all makes, and has a parts department or store, can fix problems faster than one that has to order everything.
7. Seasonal capacity
Openings and closings are the busiest times. Ask how early you should book, and whether weekly customers get priority.
8. Reviews and references
Read reviews on independent sites such as Google and HomeStars. Look for patterns in how the company handles problems, not just star ratings.
9. A real, local address
Look for a company with a physical location you can visit. Be cautious of businesses that list many “local offices” with no real address behind them.
About Poolmaster
Our staff are CPO certified and trained in safe water discharge. We have two TSSA-licensed gas technicians and are fully insured, and we operate from one retail and service centre at 1875 Leslie St. in North York. Read about our team or see our reviews.
Looking for a pool company? Request a quote or call 416-449-1450.
