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Pool service contract checklist for Florida communities

What to put in a community pool maintenance contract, and the Florida health rules that apply.

General information for Florida associations. This isn't legal advice. Check your governing documents and ask your association's attorney about your situation. Last reviewed October 2026.

Community pools in Florida fall under the Department of Health's public pool rules in Chapter 514. Section 514.0115 exempts some association pools from full supervision. For example, HOA pools serving 32 or fewer units or parcels that aren't operated as public lodging are exempt except for water quality and certain other requirements. Ask your county health department which rules apply to your pool.

Put these in the contract

  • Visit frequency (for example, 3–5 visits a week in summer) and what happens on holidays.
  • Chemical testing at each visit, with logs kept on site or shared digitally.
  • Who pays for chemicals: included, or billed at a stated markup?
  • Equipment checks: pumps, filters, heaters, chlorinators, and gate latches and safety equipment.
  • Cleaning: skimming, vacuuming, tile line, filter backwashing or cleaning schedule.
  • Repairs: an approval limit, labor rates, and response time for an urgent closure.
  • Closure procedures when water quality fails, and who notifies residents.
  • Licensing: pool repair or construction work generally requires a licensed pool/spa contractor (check on MyFloridaLicense.com). Ask what the service technician is certified in.
  • Insurance certificates and additional-insured status.

Compare bids on equal terms

Ask every bidder to price the same visit schedule, chemical arrangement, and pool count. Then compare cost per visit, not just the monthly total.

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