Fortunately, national April home sales were up 20% over last year. With real estate activity finally picking up, the last thing a seller, buyer, real estate agent, or lender wants is a delay in the sales process as a result of a leaking swimming pool. With a little bit of planning, however, delays can be avoided.

Pools Do Leak

First, all concerned parties should be aware that pools leak. Indeed, 1 in 20 swimming pools have a leak right now. While older properties may suffer from corroded plumbing and a compromised structure, newer properties may suffer from unintended construction errors or changes in the natural water table.

Home Inspectors Do Not Perform a Full Pool Leak Detection

Second, all parties should recognize that home inspectors typically do not perform a full pool leak detection. Rather, “they perform a visual inspection of the pool structure, surroundings, and pump. If all looks well, they will check off the pool as ‘in working order’”, says Debbie Sander, a real estate agent for Windermere.

To Avoid Delays, Be Pro-Active

Third, all parties should be pro-active by considering the following signs and symptoms of a pool leak:

• There is algae forming too soon after a chemical treatment.
• There are loose or falling tiles or pool deck cracks.
• The pool/spa has settled into the ground or cracks and gaps appear in the pool shell or concrete deck.
• There is standing water, mushy spots, or uneven grass growth around the pool/spa area.
• The automatic filler is continually releasing water.

If any of these conditions are present, then retain a professional leak detection specialist early in the sales process. A leak detection specialist can perform a much more detailed inspection of the pool, its equipment and specifications. Pressure checks can be performed. Any pool leak issues can then be identified and resolved and a timely closing ensured.

Learn more about leak symptoms.