Most people hear “pool company” and picture someone building backyard pools.

Commercial pools are a different business.

In this episode, Phil Collins and Robert Morgan talk through what a commercial pool contractor actually does, from estimating and construction to the equipment and systems that keep a facility running.

A commercial pool bid is more than the number at the bottom. Phil Collins and Robert Morgan explain what estimators should look for before awarding the work.

The difference often hides in everyday items such as excavation, backfill, void forms, deck mastic, and plumbing connections. One contractor may leave the work out. Another may include something already covered by a different trade. Either way, the owner could end up paying twice or dealing with unassigned work during construction.

Some scopes also make more sense with contractors already on-site. If an earthwork crew is already mobilized, having that crew excavate the pool may avoid bringing in more equipment and adding another markup.

The important part is deciding who owns each piece of the work before the project is awarded.

“By others” can expose costly scope gaps in a commercial pool bid. Phil Collins and Robert Morgan explain what the term means and why the lowest number does not always provide the best value.

What you will learn:

• How exclusions help identify missing scope
• Why electrical work is typically handled by others
• When fencing, signage, landscaping, and startup service are included

A clear exclusion list is not a warning sign. It is a practical tool for confirming who owns each part of the project before construction begins.