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On this episode of the Talking Pools Podcast, Steve dives into the realities of commercial pool liability, leak detection, client communication, and the hidden responsibilities that separate true professionals from “just the pool guy.”

The episode opens with Steve discussing the frustration surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket prices before shifting into another edition of the Insurance Interlude with Pat Grignon of the California Pool Association. Together, they unpack a real-world commercial pool situation involving missing handrails, code violations, liability exposure, and the importance of documenting hazards before they become lawsuits.

Steve also delivers a detailed masterclass on swimming pool leak detection—from the bucket test and common skimmer throat leaks to light conduit failures, dye testing, and why every pool company should build relationships with specialized leak detection professionals.

The conversation expands into business growth, professionalism, continuing education through CPO certification, building vendor partnerships, and the importance of commanding confidence when speaking with clients. Whether you’re a new pool tech or a seasoned operator, this episode is packed with field-tested advice, operational insight, and hard-earned lessons from the trenches of the pool industry. 

Show Notes

•  Steve discusses taking his first real day off in weeks after nonstop CPO classes, commercial pool work, and field service calls 
•  Frustration over 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket pricing and how rising costs are pushing longtime fans away from attending matches 
•  Insurance Interlude with Pat Grignon of the California Pool Association 
•  Commercial pool liability discussion involving missing handrails, code violations, depth markers, and no-diving signage 
•  Why service companies have a legal duty to identify and document hazards at commercial pools 
•  The importance of written communication, email documentation, and certified letters when addressing dangerous pool conditions 
•  Discussion on foreseeability, negligence, proximate cause, and how lawsuits target everyone connected to a commercial pool incident 
•  Why certain violations should potentially justify closing a commercial pool until repairs are completed 
•  Overlooked commercial pool code requirements including transition lines, deck depth markers, and step visibility indicators 
•  How courts may determine liability between service companies and construction contractors 
•  Steve’s philosophy on protecting clients while simultaneously protecting your company from exposure 
•  A full breakdown of swimming pool leak detection basics for newer pool professionals 
•  How to perform the bucket test to confirm water loss 
•  Common leak locations including skimmer throats, light conduits, spa jets, and cracked tile lines 
•  Why Steve recommends using marine epoxy products like Splash Zone for underwater repairs 
•  The value of partnering with dedicated leak detection specialists rather than trying to handle every service internally 
•  Business advice on building strategic partnerships with plaster companies, leak detection companies, and specialty contractors 
•  Discussion about markup strategy and creating referral partnerships that benefit both companies 
•  Why pool professionals should avoid sending outside contractors who may try to steal recurring service accounts 
•  Steve explains why honesty and transparency with customers build long-term trust 
•  The importance of education and CPO certification for newer pool professionals entering the industry 
•  How knowledgeable communication builds authority and helps clients trust your expertise 
•  Real-world examples of identifying hidden hazards clients never noticed themselves 
•  Pool Corp’s giveaway promotion for the Aper Scuba P1 robotic vacuum 
•  Discussion about distributor pricing, OEM parts inflation, and why pool pros are increasingly turning to aftermarket options 
•  Teaser for an upcoming episode discussing commercial bidding strategies, vacuum systems, and how Steve slowly closed a six-month commercial contract negotiation

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