The essential buyers’ guide
A recent survey of Brits has found that the most desired garden items are pools and hot tubs and according to Positive Weather Solutions (http://tinyurl.com/y9jxjay) the UK is set for a great summer. So it’s time to think about improvements including pools, spas and hot tubs to give your garden the added wow factor.
Swimming and having fun in the water is one of the best family activities. Families spend time together and it’s a great way to encourage children to be sporty and fit from a young age.
The Swimming Pool and Allied Trades Association (SPATA) and The British and Irish Spa and Hot Tub Association (BISHTA) are the trade associations for swimming pools and hot tubs, respectively, which ensure contractors and suppliers meet industry standards to make usage safe.
Top ten tips when buying a pool or hot tub:
1) Always choose a SPATA or BISHTA member so that you can be assured that your purchase will be built to industry standards. Contact BISHTA and / or SPATA by checking their relevant website – www.spata.co.uk, www.bishta.co.uk
2) Ensure the contractor can show at least two examples of the type of hot tub or pool that you want. Ask past clients for their feedback on the contractors’ professionalism and ability to meet agreed deadlines
3) Check the contractor is able to do all of the work involved, or ensure that they have regular sub-contractors that are used and that you know who these are
4) Ensure the contractor agrees to start work when needed; make this a stipulation in the contract
5) Ask who will be responsible for after-sales maintenance and service
6) Find out if there are any Local Authority consents required for pools (e.g. Planning, Building Regulations, etc.)
7) Ask the installer what the proposed method of dealing with increased costs and extra works will be
8) Find out what method of water treatment is proposed, do not deal with anyone that cannot offer you water advice backed up with relevant literature
9) Check the warranties on the products
10) Find out who is responsible for site clearance and subsequent reinstatement
For further information or images, please contact BOTTLE PR on 01865 882 988 or email: pip@bottlepr.co.uk
For further information on SPATA go to www.spata.co.uk, and for BISHTA go to www.bishta.co.uk