How to check a pool builder's license in Suffolk or Nassau

What New York State and federal rules say

• The Department of State says that in most cases a pool or spa, or its area, must be fully surrounded by an intact fence or barrier at least 48 inches high, with self-closing, self-latching gates. Pool, door or gate alarms may also be required.
• Chapter 42 of the Residential Code of New York State applies to the electric wiring and equipment for all swimming pools, the Department of State says.

In Suffolk County

• Suffolk's home improvement law covers the construction, installation and servicing of swimming pools and portable and permanent spas, and those businesses need a county license unless the law exempts them.
• Suffolk's code sets a pool builder certification rule: proof of the Association of Pool and Spa Professionals' Certified Building Professionals certification, or another the Commissioner approves, and two years of pool building experience.
• A Suffolk licensee who services the plumbing, heating or electrical elements of swimming pools or spas must show at least two years of experience and training in that servicing.
• Pool & Spa Maintenance has its own entry on Suffolk Consumer Affairs' list of license types.

1. 1Step 1Suffolk's License and Complaint Violation Look Up has a Swimming Pool Maintenance search for pool service companies, and pool builders are searched under Home Improvement License.
2. 2Step 2Suffolk Consumer Affairs at (631) 853-4600 can tell you whether a pool company is licensed.

In Nassau County

• Building, installing and maintaining swimming pools all require a license in Nassau, according to the Consumer Affairs list of who must be licensed.
• Nassau's license application asks pool and spa builders for five years of experience and a CBP, or certified building professional, certification or an equivalent.
• All pool and spa contractors in Nassau must use licensed plumbers and licensed electricians, the county's application says.
• Nassau's application form sets out pool service and repair as a separate category of work.

1. 1Step 1Search a pool builder or pool service company in Nassau's Valid Business License Search, a database the county updates every day.

Towns with a license of their own

• City of Long Beach: The City issues building permits only to a City of Long Beach licensed contractor or the homeowner, and a licensed contractor must complete an affidavit that they alone are doing the work.
• Town of Shelter Island: Shelter Island's notice to contractors says every contractor or subcontractor working on the island, landscapers included, needs a town license.

Beyond the license

• Ask for a certificate of insurance sent to you by the insurer, naming you as the certificate holder.
• Ask who files the permit and books the inspections, and get it in the contract.
• Get the price, the scope, the start and finish dates and the payment schedule in a written contract.