How to Become a Pool Contractor in Southern California

Between 2002 and 2005, the in-ground pool market grew by 10 percent.

The United States is home to more than 4 million swimming pools. With prices starting at $30,000 in 2010, it's not surprising that many contractors are keen to expand into this growing market. For those setting up as swimming pool contractors in Southern California, the warm climate combined with rising property values makes this type of construction work a lucrative option.

Things You'll Need

• Identification documents
• CSLB license
• Construction bonds
• Workers' compensation insurance
• Money

Instructions

Legal Requirements

1. 

   Due to the work's high risk, swimming pool contractors must be bonded.

   Bonding is essential in any type of construction. Swimming pool contractors can obtain surety bond coverage through local insurance and bonding companies. However, be aware this comes at a premium in this line of work. There are bonding alternatives available, such as CD's, share accounts and even cash. Ensure bonding is in place and approved by the Contractors State License Board prior to engaging in any contracted work--including swimming pool repairs.

2. 

   Workman's compensation insurance is required for any Southern California construction business.

   You will also need to secure workman's compensation insurance for all of your employees to meet the licensing board's requirements. Please note that even if you are a sole proprietor and have no employees, you will need to carry this. There are a number of carriers to choose from in Southern California. Speak to your local insurance broker for advice or investigate online.

3. 

   CSLB accreditation is necessary for any work over $500, including swimming pool repairs.

   Operating as a contractor in any type of construction in Southern California requires approval from the Contractors State License Board (CSLB). The term "swimming pool contractors" (code C53) encompasses any work involving hot tubs, spas and solar heating equipment. To operate as a swimming pool contractor, all elements of the CSLB must be satisfied, such as surety bonds.

4. 

   California law requires HIS-registration for all salesmen.

   Anyone employed to solicit, sell, negotiate or execute a swimming pool will need to be registered by CSLB as a "Home Improvement Salesperson" (HIS). If your employee works for a number of companies, be aware that this person must be registered separately by each contractor involved.

5. 

   Los Angeles swimming pools must meet with fire department approval.

   Every city and county in Southern California has its own rules governing the installation and repair of swimming pools, spas and hot tubs. Los Angeles County, for example, requires that any outdoor pool in Fire Zone 4 with a capacity of 5,000 gallons or more in 2010 will have a discharge line connected to a fire hydrant--as approved by the local fire department chief (Plumbing code 28: Appendix M). Research all building regulations in the areas where you're hoping to secure work.

Promoting Your Business

1. 

   Membership in professional organizations enhances your business' reputation.

   Join relevant trade bodies to increase your industry awareness and credibility. Working with a Chamber of Commerce or the Better Business Bureau in Southern California enables potential customers to see your company's standards. The California Pool and Spa Industry Education Council and the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals are also recommended.

2. 

   Designers can assist you in creating an effective company logo.

   Design your company logo and contact a local signage firm to create placards that can stand in front of houses you're working on. Be sure to check local codes or homeowners' associations to ensure this doesn't violate any orders. This logo should also be on any trucks your company operates.

3. 

   Business cards provide your contact details in a clear and concise manner.

   Commission a range of promotional literature for your business. Items to consider include: direct mail postcards, leaflets, brochures, quote folders and business cards. These can be delivered by hand or by post. Advertisements--to run online and in print--should also be designed. Carefully select publications and sites based on the profiles of the customers you wish to target.

Other Considerations

1. 

   Some pool brands offer construction and design training.

   Put a continuous training program in place. This will keep your employees performing at their best as well as boosting staff morale. The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals runs a "Career Institute" that delivers courses covering new materials and construction methods.

2. 

   A good software design package is a valuable sales tool.

   Purchase a high-end software package that enables you to design swimming pools using a personal computer. This can help avoid mistakes, speeds up the task and demonstrates to your customer that you're abreast of all the latest developments. What's more, it provides the customer with a 3-D vision of what his back yard will look like after a pool is been installed.

3. 

   Always ask for a customer's permission before offering him as a reference.

   Viral marketing, otherwise known as word of mouth, is crucial to the success of any business. It should go without saying, but always bear this in mind. Once work is complete to the customer's satisfaction, do ask for a customer testimonial and/or the customer's permission to be used as a reference.

Tips & Warnings

• A minimum of four years' experience and/or training is required by any pool contractor operating in Southern California.

References

• Municode: Title 28 Plumbing Code
• CSLB:C53
• CSLB: Before you dive in
• California Dept. of Industrial Relations: Division of Workers Compensation

Resources

• CSLB
• CSLB: Forms and Applications
• California Pool and Spa Industry Education Council
• The Association of Pool and Spa Professionals
• Municode: State of California Municipal Codes