Owner Builder:
Would I be Wise to Build My Own Pool?

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If you are willing to accept all of the responsibility, and you have the required knowledge and experience,it might be well to build your own pool. Be aware, however, that building a swimming pool is not a simple construction project, like adding a porch or remodeling your bathroom.  Pool construction requires coordination of a minimum of ten different specialized trades.  Even most general contractors, with extensive experience at home building, do not have the skills or experience with subcontractors that they need to build a pool. In fact, most general contractors hire licensed pool companies as the contractor for their pool projects. In addition to the complexities of design, supervision, and construction, there are also many liability considerations.  Most homeowners do not realize that they assume total liability for every subcontractor (and his employees) while he works on the job. The “Contractors Division” of the California State Department of Consumer Affairs has issued this “Word of Caution”:

Anyone who talks you into being your own general contractor, or "owner/builder," may be doing you no favor. "Owner/builder" describes a situation in which the homeowner becomes the general contractor; as an owner/builder you (not the person you hire) assumes responsibility for the whole job. Your responsibility may include such things as state and federal taxes, worker’s compensation insurance and other legal liabilities.  You may be required to hire various subcontractors for your project, scheduling their work and supervising the job. If a worker is injured while working on your property, you could be asked to pay for injuries and rehabilitation through your homeowner’s insurance policy. By signing a building permit application as an owner/builder, you assume full responsibility for all phases of your project and its integrity.  Hiring an unlicensed 'consultant' to manage the project does not save you money in the long run.  By hiring a licensed and experienced contractor for your project to hire licensed knowledgeable tradespersons, the contractor becomes responsible for all phases of construction.  Unless you are very experienced in construction, it is best to leave these matters to your licensed contractor.

CLICK HERE to view a short video testimonial from an owner/builder! (This video is best viewed through Windows Media Player)