Transferring Pool Ownership after Construction

The period after construction of a pool and handing over to its owners is vital. To make the handoff a success, contractors have to plan it from the beginning. Brad Renken, CEO and owner of Hearthstone Luxury Pools + Outdoors in Roswell, Ga., states that when he first entered the pool industry business, he realized that the handoff process needed much consideration. In the past, the transition process was not a big deal. The contractors would give the owners the key and tell them, “Here is your project.” Currently, the situation is different. The clients expect a better way to have their long-awaited projects handed over to them. It is a big deal for them as it is a huge investment. Contractors are also improving on ways to transfer pool ownership to the clients.

Here are tips for a smooth transition process:

Advice on the prospects

Clients are usually well versed with information before they consider doing a project. It is normal that they do their research and have their expectations. They also have lots of questions, design ideas, and anxieties. Builders need to guide their clients and lay down expectations from the beginning. This is a step towards a successful project and the prevention of future problems. Nathan Caldwell, a construction superintendent, states that clients can try to inform you how to construct their pool at times. As a builder, it is okay to decline respectfully and guide the client depending on their budget. Educating the customer is part of the start-up process. The earlier, the better it will be, to help avoid conflict, and a smooth transition process. Handing the consumer’s pool instructions and the building schedule, makes them feel like they are a part of the pool ownership process, and can use these guides as future reference. The key lesson is the builder ought to be patient with the customer.

Withholding the final bill

The builder should leave the account open until the transition process is complete. This move can get the builders nervous, but it shows commitment to the consumer. The consumer can clear the bill after one month of service. This is an assurance to the consumer that the builder is still available for them. That is the time to help the client with their concerns before the project comes to an end. The client will then pay when satisfied and confident about the project. 

The Support Team

After construction, the construction company should provide the consumer with a service team for any help they may require for a minimum of one month. A company may choose to provide their service team or partner with another company to provide the services. It is challenging for a new owner to maneuver their way through the maintenance of the pool. Rowen says that he partnered with 2 companies to provide consumer service and even pays the first month. This makes the consumer happy and paints a good picture of the construction company.

Caldwell introduces the client to a service company and offers to pay for the first month. If the client is anxious or is experiencing trouble after, he can choose to extend the payment for 3-6 months. Most consumers opt to contact with service companies to save them the stress of handling their pools.

Pool school

Maintaining a pool is a hard task, especially for new owners. Confusion sets in with the mention of ‘water chemistry.’ This niche led to the start of pool schools. Contractors use this platform to educate consumers all about their pools. The first 2 weeks, it’s all about getting to understand the “water chemistry,” after which they come up with a schedule for the pool school, Caldwell says.

Rowen holds a similar view. He further adds that the school provides an opportunity for consumers to have their questions answered and guided on how to run an effective pool. Moreover, they provide emergency contacts in case of any problem. In school, they also tackle safety measures, especially for parent consumers with little ones. Video tutorials and brochures act as a bonus to help with the lectures.

The Independent Consumers 

They are also known as DIY consumers. These consumers prefer doing service for themselves. This does not mean business opportunities for builders will stop; it’s an opportunity for future retail store opportunities. Caldwell says he introduces his client to retail stores before handing over the project to them. The client will be comfortable enough to go to their store for water testing and chemicals. He still offers the one-month free service even to the DIY customers. This leaves them confident in measuring chlorine, PH, alkalinity, and cyanuric acid. He, however, advises that other elements to get tested in a water station.

Following-through

After the completion of the project and pool ownership, it is good if the contractors reach out. This makes the client even happy for their concern and availability. It is a sign that they do matter, and you are thinking about them, as Caldwell said. You can let them know that you are still willing to offer the free pool school experience. It gives the client a comfortable space to even reach out for follow-ups. Such good skills will have the client refer you to others as the best construction company, helping you build your name.