InterNACHI® Pool & Spa Inspection Checklist
This basic inspection checklist is part of InterNACHI’s free, online “How to Inspect Pools and Spas” Course
at www.nachi.org/pool-spa-course.
To have adequate and functional water flow through the pool system, there are several things that need
to be in good shape:
• There has to be enough water in the pool or spa. Check the level of the water.
• There shouldn’t be any water leaks at the plumbing connections or equipment.
• All of the valves should be fully open.
• There shouldn’t be any trapped air in the system. Air at the filter tank should be purged routinely.
• The skimmer and main drain should be clear of blockages and debris. Skimmers require cleaning.
• The strainer pot at the pump should be cleaned routinely.
• There might be an imbalance of the water chemistry, causing scaling. Check for scale-causing
clogging or restriction of water flow.
• The heater should be on and activated. The gas shut-off valve should be open. The switch should
be on. Check for a pilot light, ignition, or flame at the fuel-fired heater. Check the level in the
propane storage tank.
• The thermostat should be connected, active, and set properly.
The following inspection checklist was adapted from the guidelines recommended by the National
Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF). Use the checklist as a starting point in developing your own checklist
that fits your inspection procedure and needs.
The inspector should check for the following:
• Adequate fencing, gates, barriers, alarms, and/or other protective devices are installed.
• Adequate storage space is provided for equipment.
• Decks around pool are not cluttered.
• The pool is covered when not in use.
• Surfaces leading to the pool, including the deck and steps, are slip-resistant.
• Decks on all sides of the pool meet minimum safety standards.
• The deck is separated from the pool wall perimeter.
• There are no standing puddles on the deck.
• All ladders, stanchions, chairs, and rails have treads with a contrasting color coating or tile on both
the top and vertical rise.
• No unpleasant odors or irritating fumes are apparent.
• No physical damage is apparent at the pool
equipment.
• Main drain grates are bolted securely to the
pool’s bottom.
• Grates are visible from the deck, with no
apparent damage.
• Drain covers are installed.
• Water return inlets are installed.
• The pool is vacuumed daily.
• No debris is visible. The water is clean.
• There’s no discoloration of the water.
• There is no visible algae growth.
• The pool water is tested at the frequency required or desired.
• All water quality and chemical levels were within acceptable ranges as of the most current test.
• Bacteriological water analysis is performed on a regular basis.
• The water temperature is maintained within acceptable levels and is appropriate for the primary
activities being conducted in the pool.
• The water temperature has been measured and recorded.
• The type of heater is identified.
• The efficiency and BTU ratings of the heater are identified.
• The heater is installed on a level, non-combustible base.
• Safety devices are installed on the heater.
• The thermostat is located and identified.
• Check valves between the heater and filter are installed.
• Bonding and grounding are visible.
• The heater is installed downstream of the pump and filter.
• A solar-heating system is installed.
• The solar-heating system type is identified.
• The solar-heating system is active.
• Pool chemicals are stored a safe distance away from the heater.
• Adequate clearances around the heater are maintained.
• Coping stones and tiles are not chipped, cracked or loose.
• The pool shell appears smooth, without readily visible defects.
• There is no visible surface staining.
• The water level appears to be maintained to allow for the removal of floating debris.
• The water level appears at the proper height to allow continuous overflow of water into the gutters
or skimmers.
• Skimmer weirs, skimmer baskets, deck covers, and flow-adjustment devices are installed.
• Lights are installed and are operational.
• The type, number and wattage of deck lighting are identified.
• The number of underwater lights is noted.
• GFCIs are installed.
• Electrical wiring is not passing directly over the pool or spa.
• Hose bibs are installed near the pool.
• No apparent defects or signs of repair are
observed at the diving board.
• The manufacturer of the diving board is
visible on the board itself.
• The centrifugal pump is secured to its base
and is operating quietly.
• The hair and lint strainer basket is clean of
debris.
• The type of pipe has been identified.
• Pipes and fittings are not leaking.
• Pipes are supported adequately.
• Pipes are not showing signs of calcification, corrosion or deterioration.
• Air pressure-relief valves are installed on all pressure filter tanks.
• Filter tanks are accessible.
• The filter’s brand is identified.
• A clean sight glass or visual outfall of at least 3 feet has been provided.
• The pressurized filter tanks and hair and lint traps are not leaking and are properly sealed.
• All piping, filters and components that are part of the system are labeled, tagged, color-coded, or
otherwise identified.
• A spa is installed.
• The spa is operational.
• A spa cover is installed.
• No physical damage is apparent at the spa.
• A spa timer is installed and not reachable by a spa user.
• The emergency shut-off switch for the spa is installed and clearly labeled.
• The spa appears clean and adequately maintained.