Why pools need their own attention
A private pool combines structure, waterproofing, plumbing, mechanical plant and mains electricity, all in one place and all around water. Faults are expensive to fix once the pool is in use, and some — like missing electrical bonding — are safety issues rather than inconveniences. That is why pools have their own section in our published inspection checklist.
Shell, tiles and copings
- Cracking or movement in the shell and at the waterline
- Hollow or loose tiles, grout gaps and failing sealant
- Copings properly bedded and level, with no rocking stones
- Water level steady over time: a falling level with no splash loss points to a leak
- Deck falls running away from the pool, so dirty water does not wash back in
Pump, filter and the plant room
We run the plant under load: the pump primes and runs quietly, the strainer basket and seals are sound, the filter pressure reads correctly, and every valve position works, including backwash. Salt chlorinators and dosing systems are checked for operation and cell condition.
The plant room itself needs drainage, ventilation and safe access. A pump room that floods, or one so tight it cannot be serviced, will cost you money every year.
Electrics and bonding: the safety part
Pool electrics must be properly isolated and protected by an RCD that trips when tested. Pool lighting should be low-voltage with the transformer in a safe position. Just as important is equipotential bonding: the pool structure, ladders, rails and metal plant connected together, so a fault cannot create a dangerous voltage difference around the water.
Missing or incomplete bonding is one of the most serious findings we make, and it is classified Critical in the report, with a recommendation that it is put right before anyone swims.
Pools on hillside and coastal plots
Infinity and overflow pools on hillside plots add balance tanks, weirs and more complex plumbing. Coastal pools face salt attack on metalwork and equipment. Our pages for Kamala and Surin and Lamai, Chaweng and Bophut cover the local issues.
Getting it checked
Pool, plant and bonding checks are included in every villa inspection: two-bed pool villas are 30,000 THB and three to four bed 40,000 THB — see fees. For the other common villa problems, read common defects in Phuket villas.