Contractors board urges pool builders to be careful

It is important that a home- owner’s invoice list all pool or spa equipment used, and that the equipment has corresponding serial numbers to protect the homeowners’ warranty rights.

“Homeowners should be cautious,” warns Terry Mayfield, executive director of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals, Southern Nevada chapter.

If the equipment serial numbers don’t match, or if there are no serial numbers on equipment, then manufacturers’ warranties will not apply.

The contractor should fully identify the serial number on all equipment covered by the warranty.

The contractors board also advises homeowners to get at least three bids from licensed contractors before hiring someone. Keep a job file on your project, where all important documents (the contract, cancelled checks, design plans, etc.) can be kept for quick reference.

Stick to the original price negotiated. If changes are made, either at the homeowner or contractor’s suggestion, get the change order in writing, and put this in your job file.

The board advises home- owners not to use unlicensed contractors because their work is generally poor quality, they are often uninsured and may not maintain workman’s compensation coverage for their employees, and the home- owner may be liable for all injuries to workers.

Homeowners who use unlicensed contractors are not eligible for the Residential Recovery Fund, and by law their contracts are null and void.

Contacting without a license in Nevada is a misdemeanor for the first offense, a gross misdemeanor for the second offense and a Class E felony for the third offense. If you are approached by an unlicensed contractor, contact the board by calling the unlicensed contractor hot line at 486-1160.