1. Who prepares the design?

Ask who will prepare the layout, structural drawings and pool-system plans. Find out what site information they need and which drawings you will receive before work begins.

2. What does the site assessment cover?

Discuss the proposed location, nearby buildings, access and groundwater considerations with the project engineer. Ask how these findings will be reflected in the proposal.

3. What is included in the specification?

Request a written description of the construction method, waterproofing, finishes and equipment. The specification should be clear enough to compare with other proposals.

4. How are changes handled?

Ask who approves a change, how its cost is recorded and when you will be told about any effect on the programme. Confirm the person you should contact during construction.

5. What happens at handover?

Ask about testing, operating instructions, maintenance guidance and warranty documents. Agree how questions or service requests will be handled after completion.