BIC TIP #1110: Whose Job Is It to Wake Up the Pool?
Form 2-T gives us many answers, but when it comes to pools, it historically left one big question floating: Who pays to de-winterize and re-winterize the pool for inspections? To stop the splashing over this issue, the NC REALTORS® created the Pool/Spa Inspection/Preparation provision in the Additional Provisions Addendum (Form 2A11-T), effective July 1, 2020.
This provision reinforces that the buyer remains responsible for the cost of any inspections the buyer chooses. But more importantly, it gives the parties a structured way to negotiate who pays to put the pool into operable condition for inspection and who pays to button it back up afterward. No more assumptions, surprises, or last-minute finger-pointing at the deep end.
When the contract includes Form 2A11-T, brokers should ensure that these responsibilities are clearly allocated. Remember: If no one agrees who will wake the pool up for inspection, the transaction might sink before it ever closes.
Notorious BIC Tip:
Never dive into a deal without knowing who is paying to prep the pool. Clear negotiation today prevents murky water tomorrow.
