Through his company TrustDALE, Emmy award-winning consumer investigator Dale Cardwell applies nearly 30 years of investigative experience to his singular mission: to promote ethical business practices, empower consumers, and expose scammers.

In this episode of the Trust Issues Podcast, consumer investigator Dale Cardwell dives into the high cost and hidden danger of pool construction scams. What starts as a dream of backyard fun and family memories can quickly become a financial nightmare when homeowners are lured in by misleading ads, contracts soaked with confusing language, and sky high financing that quickly lands them in the deep end.

Dale and senior producer Marnie Zambri share the story of Anna, who, along with many other consumers across the country, says she was pressured into signing a deal for a low quality pool with staggering interest rates and terms she didn't fully understand.

In addition to uncovering the scam tactics, Dale gets the help of Peter Mokan, owner of TrustDALE Certified Affinity Outdoor Living to spell out exactly what consumers should expect from a legitimate pool construction company. Peter explains the realities behind custom pool construction, from property limitations and permitting issues to drainage, soil conditions, septic systems, utility lines, and access challenges that can affect whether a pool project is even possible.

The episode also walks listeners through how to properly vet a pool contractor, what should be included in a contract, how payment schedules should work, and why homeowners should plan the entire outdoor living space instead of focusing on the pool alone. Dale and Marnie close with practical do's and don'ts that can help consumers avoid getting trapped by lowball offers and rushed decisions.

If you're thinking about building a pool, this episode is essential listening before you sign anything or spend a dollar.

TrustDALE.com connects consumers and companies with service providers who have passed Dale's seven point investigative process to ensure top quality work at a fair price. TrustDALE backs every job with a Make It Right Guarantee.

Since its launch, TrustDALE has recovered more than $1.5 million in goods and services for consumers while connecting great businesses with great customers every day. #consumerprotection #consumeradvice #consumerinvestigator #dalecardwell #trustdaletv #trustdale #consumeradvocate