The Hidden Costs of Going Cheap
Building a swimming pool is one of the biggest investments you can make in your home and your lifestyle. Unfortunately, in Louisville and across Kentucky, many homeowners fall victim to bad pool contractors who promise the cheapest price up front—only to change-order you to death later in the process. What looks like a “great deal” often ends up costing far more than if you had chosen a professional pool contractor from the start.
At Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living, we want to help you spot the warning signs before you make a costly mistake.
How Cheap Pool Contractors Hook You In
Fly-by-night pool builders know one thing: price sells. They’ll give you the lowest possible estimate just to win your business. But that number rarely reflects the true scope of a complete pool project.
Here’s how they cut corners:
- Excluding essential items like permits, electrical, gas lines, or pool decking from their initial bid.
- Using vague contracts that leave room for costly “extras” later.
- Hiring unlicensed subcontractors who may not finish the job or meet safety codes.
- Offering unrealistic timelines that result in delays, abandoned jobs, or rushed work.
What starts as a budget-friendly project quickly spirals into frustration, unexpected bills, and sometimes even unfinished pools.
The Hidden Price of Change Orders
The most common tactic of unprofessional pool contractors is the change order game. Here’s how it works:
- You sign a contract for a low price.
- Midway through the project, they “discover” additional costs that were never included.
- You’re faced with non-negotiable change orders—pay up or risk having your pool left incomplete.
By the time your backyard is finished (if it ever is), you’ve paid thousands more than you expected—often more than if you had chosen a reputable, professional pool company upfront.
Why Professional Pool Contractors Are Worth It
When you hire a trusted company like Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living, you’re not just buying a pool—you’re buying peace of mind.
Here’s what sets a professional pool contractor apart:
- Transparent pricing: All permits, utilities, decking, coping, and yard restoration are included.
- Licensed trades: Electrical, gas, and plumbing are handled by certified professionals.
- Clear timelines: You’ll know what to expect from start to finish.
- Quality materials: No cutting corners with subpar products.
- Turnkey service: When we’re done, you’re swimming—not waiting on more subcontractors.
How to Spot a Bad Pool Contractor
Before you sign a pool contract, watch out for these warning signs:
- “Too good to be true” pricing that’s thousands lower than other bids.
- No physical business location or only a cell phone number.
- Refusal to provide references or proof of licensing/insurance.
- Vague contracts that don’t spell out exactly what’s included.
- High-pressure sales tactics urge you to sign quickly.
If you see these red flags, walk away. Protect your investment and your peace of mind.
Why Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living Is Different
At Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living, we’ve built our reputation in Louisville on trust, professionalism, and complete backyard transformations.
- We never bait-and-switch with lowball quotes.
- We provide detailed proposals that include everything required for a complete pool project.
- We stand behind our work with experience, licensing, and a professional team that treats your property with respect.
- Our goal is simple: enjoy a new pool immediately—not worry about hidden costs or incomplete work.
Protect Your Investment
A swimming pool should be a source of joy, not stress. Don’t let a fly-by-night contractor turn your dream backyard into a financial nightmare. Choose a professional pool company that values your time, money, and peace of mind.
Ready to build your pool with confidence and clarity?
Contact Derby City Pools & Outdoor Living today for a free, no-surprises consultation and let us show you how a professional pool contractor can deliver the backyard of your dreams—without the hidden costs.
