Communities & ownership
Forest Ridge Homes With Pools: Insurance and Maintenance Review
Quick answer
A pool adds enjoyment and also a separate set of checks. Order a pool inspection along with your home inspection, ask for permit records for the pool, screen enclosure and any equipment replacement, and get an insurance quote that includes the pool. Florida has safety barrier requirements for residential pools, so ask what applies to the home you're buying. Then budget for ongoing service, equipment and enclosure upkeep.
Pool safety options and association architectural submissions
§515.27, Florida Statutes requires at least one listed residential pool safety feature to receive a certificate of completion: qualifying isolation enclosure, approved safety cover, qualifying exit alarms, qualifying self-closing/self-latching doors or a qualifying pool alarm. It does not mean every resale pool universally needs one identical fence.
Where a barrier is used, §515.29 includes a minimum four-foot outside height and requirements addressing climbability, openings and access gates. Ask the Town and inspector about the pool’s construction date, permit scope, applicable exemptions and current code; a screen enclosure alone is not proof of compliance.
For a Forest Ridge property governed by an HOA, §720.3035 ties architectural authority to the declaration and authorized published standards. Obtain the correct association’s current application and submit a survey/site plan, barrier and enclosure design, equipment location and finishes where requested. Written association approval does not replace Town permits or required inspections.
Pool inspection items
- Shell cracks and surface condition
- Pump, filter and heater age
- Electrical bonding and lighting
- Deck cracks and drainage toward the house
- Screen enclosure condition and anchoring
Records to request
| Item | Why |
|---|---|
| Pool permit and final | Check approved scope and final inspection result |
| Screen enclosure permit | Important for hurricane exposure |
| Equipment replacement records | Estimates remaining life |
| HOA approval (if any) | Some communities review pools/enclosures |
Insurance
Ask your insurance agent how the pool and screen enclosure affect the premium and coverage, and whether liability limits should be higher. Wind protection on the house — like impact glass or shutters — can matter too; a wind mitigation inspection documents it.
Safety
Florida's Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act sets barrier rules for pools. Ask your inspector and the Town what applies to the specific home.
Related Mora Realty Davie pages
Sources
- Florida Statutes §515.27 — Residential pool safety feature options
- Florida Statutes §515.29 — Barrier requirements
- Florida Statutes §720.3035 — HOA architectural authority