How to Inspect Your Pool

🧒 Children Aged 1–4 Years

For toddlers and preschoolers, the leading causes of death is:

Drowning: The top cause of death in this age group in Florida. WHY! In Florida if you contact the county or a YMCA they will teach you kids to swim for free!

Incorporating references to the Florida Building Code (FBC) Section 454 and Florida Statutes (FS) Chapter 515 regarding pool safety:

This guide will walk you through essential inspection steps while referencing key Florida codes that help protect homeowners and children

1. Measure Average Depth and Capacity

Start by calculating your pool’s average depth:

(Shallow End Depth + Deep End Depth) ÷ 2

This helps determine your pool’s volume, which influences chemical use, pump sizing, and safety planning. You’ll also need this measurement when choosing covers, liners, and safety devices.

(Length’ x Width’ = Square Feet X Depth = Cubic Feet X 7.48 (gallons per cubic foot) = Volume in Gallons)

2. Choose the Right Pool Cover

Your pool’s size and shape affect which seasonal or safety cover is appropriate.

• Solar covers conserve heat.
• Winter covers protect from debris and damage.
• Safety covers help prevent unauthorized or accidental access.

Tip: Safety covers can assist in meeting the barrier requirements of Florida Statute § 515.27, which mandates a physical barrier for all residential pools to reduce drowning risks.

3. Inspect the Pool Liner

A pool liner protects your pool’s structure and keeps water clean.
Inspect for:

• Cracks, wrinkles, or fading
• Signs of algae or chemical imbalance
• Loose or damaged edges

Vinyl and reinforced plastic liners are most common in residential pools and provide long-term durability.

4. Prioritize Pool Safety

Comply with FBC Section 454.2 and FS Chapter 515

Florida has strict pool safety requirements for residential and public pools.
Key safety standards include:

Florida Building Code (FBC), Section 454.:

• Requires proper construction, circulation systems, fencing, and signage for residential and public pools.
• Mandates anti-entrapment drain covers, pool enclosure specifications, and accessibility rules.

Florida Statutes Chapter 515 (Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act):

• Requires one or more of the following safety features for residential pools:
  • Enclosure (fence) at least 4 feet high with a self-latching gate
  • Approved safety cover
  • Door alarms on access points
  • Self-closing, self-latching doors with release mechanisms

5. Check Toys and Accessories

Accessories enhance pool fun, but safety comes first:

• Use goggles to protect eyes from chlorine.
• Inspect floats, water wings, and swim belts regularly for leaks or damage.
• Store toys safely away from the pool area to prevent unsupervised access.

6. Plan for Regular Maintenance

Routine inspection also includes:

• Testing pH and chlorine levels
• Checking pump, filter, and skimmer operation
• Ensuring clear water and clean surfaces

Proper maintenance reduces equipment strain and extends your pool’s lifespan.

Final Notes

Whether you’re a homeowner or home inspector, pool inspection should always include safety code compliance. Knowing your pool’s dimensions, structure, and safety features helps you avoid accidents and maintain legal standards under Florida law.

• Barriers per FS § 515.27
• Drain safety per FBC 454.2.5
• Pool alarm requirements if no barrier is present