In the deep end: Family surprised by $60K pool renovation cost

A Brampton family who purchased a home with an existing in-ground swimming pool they believed was in good condition was shocked when it turned into a $60,000 renovation project.

The Ali family said they hired an inspector who told them their backyard pool was ready to use. But when they opened the swimming pool this past spring, they discovered buckling walls and concrete that was heaving.

"We paid extra money to have a different pool inspector come in and make sure we knew what we were purchasing," Lisa Ali told CTV Toronto.

The Alis were then advised by the Pool and Hot Tub Council of Canada to repair their swimming pool if they wanted to use it. Months later, the backyard oasis is ready to use, but the Alis say they were surprised by the cost.

They initially thought the project would cost them between $3,000 to $5,000, but when the invoice came in, they were shocked by the $60,000 bill.

"You don't anticipate spending that kind of money – especially when moving into a new home," Rene Ali said. "But overall, the process went well."

According to the Pool and Hot Tub Council of Canada, prospective homebuyers should get a swimming pool checked by a qualified professional before signing on the dotted line. The group advises people to contact them to find an inspector.

"We have standards, we have education, we have codes of ethics to ensure that (inspectors) are trained and experienced in doing this," the group's national president Dave Warren said.

"Unfortunately, when someone who doesn't necessarily have that professionalism, training or education, things get missed."

With a report from CTV Toronto's Pat Foran