Clockwise from leſt: This pool (or is it a pond?) has seen better days - it may have a leak depending on where the water level is; the pool’s cracked skimmer is the culprit and will need to be replaced; the liner and all the pipework had to be changed, too, to ensure the pool was watertight


that it isn’t leaking like a sieve. A leaking pool for most people is their primary concern – and rightly so, as it can be the costliest thing to sort out. A full refit of pieces and pipework can cost up to €10,000. If the pool is not full, note


where the pool water level is. If it’s below the skimmers, inlets or lights, this could signal a leak relating to one of these items and the associated pipework. If the pool water level rests between these pieces, it might not be anything to worry about. This could just be a case of evaporation or the pool being partially drained and in a winterised state. Over time, the plastic


elements can corrode or crack, namely the skimmer pots, so take a look inside and see if you can spot any hairline cracks. If you are super keen, take out the skimmer basket and have a look down the exit pipe. The pool might have had decades of chemical use


“Don’t be put off by a green pool – if the pool filtration system works, it can be rectified in a matter of days”


with chlorine being the most corrosive perpetrator. Overuse of chlorine melts the inside of the plastic pipework, which can be seen manifesting as a bubbling effect. This corrosion thins and weakens the structure of the pipework, ultimately resulting in leaks or the crushing of pipes due to the water pressure.


CHECKING FOR LEAKS A leak detection company can undertake a survey, which will cost about €500. This should be a comprehensive test of all the pieces including the floor drain, pipework and the pool lining as sometimes there can be more than one leak. Take a


look at the pool equipment too. Pump rooms aren’t, generally speaking, the most attractive room of the house, but it’s worth taking a look around. Note if the floor is wet or if there are tide marks or stains on the filter, pump or the pipework. Pay attention to any dodgy-looking repairs and note the general condition of the equipment. Filters can last for 20 years


and pumps up to 10 years; anything past that, and your pool is on borrowed time. Budget from €1,500 to €5,000 depending on whether you plan to do the work yourself or get in a professional installer, and allow for the replacement of the electrical control box.


Many buyers will insist on seeing the pool in working order prior to putting in an offer and have this as a condition of sale, however, this is not always possible. Looking from a positive


perspective, the ‘green pool’ might put off other prospective buyers, and provide you with a bit of bargaining power!


LINE UP, LINE UP… Most pools in France are liner pools; this is essentially a PVC covering made to measure to your individual pool. The material is very strong and, when professionally fitted, lasts between 10 and 20 years. A new liner has a varnished


finish to the water side and in some cases the pool wall side too. This finish acts as a barrier to stop toxins and bacteria attaching themselves to the PVC liner material. For the same reason, there is also a layer of anti-bacterial felt between the pool liner and


FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS:March/April 2025 55


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