Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer. For many, it’s also the beginning of pool season. If you own a pool, now may be the time to get it checked out. Your Better Business Bureau offers tips of what to look for when hiring a pool service company.

Over the last year, your BBB recorded more than 2,600 inquiries locally about pool service companies and dealers. However, about 694,000 inquiries and 1,900 complaints were filed nationally with your BBB against companies in this industry.

A pool service company covers a variety of services and it varies from company to company. Pool service companies offer services, such as opening and closing your pool, vacuuming, brushing the sides of the pool, balancing the water chemistry, emptying skimmer baskets among other jobs depending on the size and extra equipment on your pool. Also, there are several factors of how much it will cost you to get your pool serviced or repaired. For instance, if you have a large pool, you may be charged more for chemicals and man hours.

When looking for a trustworthy swimming pool contractor, your BBB offers these tips:

• Shop around and compare. Get several bids detailing the work to be done, materials needed, cost and payment terms.

• Get recommendations from friends and family. If they’re pleased with their contractors, most likely you’ll be too.

• Find out how long the company has been in business.

• Find out if the company is a member of an association like the Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP). These associations help contractors know the latest trends in equipment, which in turn means they can make you aware of new products and possible rebates.

• Consider reputation, years of service and services provided, as well as cost.

• Be sure contractors are appropriately licensed and insured.

• Review warranty coverage. Make sure you understand coverage terms and conditions.

• Watch out for companies offering quick solutions or using misleading statements, high pressure or scare tactics.

• Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to inquire about something you don’t understand.

If you have any questions regarding swimming pool services or dealers, you can always get help from your BBB, such as a list of BBB Accredited Businesses and business reviews on ones you’re considering. Also, be sure to click the trust button on business reviews of companies you trust and work with. For more information, visit www.bbb.org or call (937) 222-5825 or (800) 776-5301.