Yes. 

You should get 3 to 4 bids.  If you get more than that it will overwhelm you.  Then narrow it down to two that were in the same area of price range. Second, the company that brought back a bid and drawing that you were looking for.

Ask if the Contractor and sub-contractors have insurance and will all workers on your property be an employee of/insured while on your property.

Do homework on Contractor’s sub-contractors.  They should be well known, insured, and ask if your contractor is in good standings with that sub contractor.  If a Contractor changes sub-contractors a lot, or does not want to tell you who their contractors are, that should be a red flag.

Ask neighbors, co-workers, friends, local pool stores etc. if they know anyone who has had a pool built.  Tell them that you are looking into building a pool.  People will always tell you the good and the bad. 

Make sure that you have read the contract thoroughly and know all that comes along with building a pool.  Example:  Upgrading your gas meter, replacing grass, replacing your fence, any underground items.  Most Pool Builders are not responsible for fixing these items.

Last but not least.  Go with the person whom you are most comfortable with and can give what you want on paper.  Always make sure that you have a drawing and contract signed by both you and the contractor. 

Note: If you have a Sub-contractor going straight to the public.  That usually means that Contractors will not use them.  Red Flag!!!

What to do once you have a new pool or a Remodel:

Most contractors do not take care of your pool once they have built it or remodeled it.  It is your job to learn or hire a weekly maintenance company to take care of it every week.  The average cost of that is around $150 a month including chemicals (depending on size of the pool).  Again do homework and find a reputable company who is insured, well known. 

When your pool is new you must brush your pool at-least once a day for 10 days.  Many new pool owners do not know the importance in this step.  It helps get the dust and particles loose and out of the pool.

It is your job to get the chemicals that you will need for your pool.  Most companies will provide you with the start up equipment on a new pool construction.  Keep the water balanced.   Most pools in the Clear Lake Area will need algaecides starting in March and use them until it starts cooling off this will help with prevention.  Check skimmer and pump baskets and keep them cleaned out every few days depending on trees, and whether in your area.  This will help your equipment stay running properly.  Keep your water level at the middle of your tile line at all times.

The pool Company that you choose should not have a problem helping with answers or warranty questions even after your job is complete.  Please know that the warranties on your equipment are warranted through that equipment manufacturer, not the pool company that installs it.  Always have your warranties on paper, and make sure that you are aware of them.