Preview: figures awaiting verification
Some numbers on this page haven't been checked against their sources yet.
Pool Cleaning and Service Business
A weekly residential route of pool cleaning and water-chemistry visits that brings in steady monthly revenue, year-round in the Sun Belt and seasonally elsewhere, with equipment repair as a separately licensed add-on in California.
Figures last verified October 31, 2026
$1,200 – $1,262*Pending verificationSourcesLeslie's — Pro Pool Cleaning Maintenance Bundle (8–16 ft telepole, 18-inch leaf rake, 22-inch brush), item B-2102(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Leslie's — Pro Grade 14-inch Vacuum Head, item 70173(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Leslie's — Haviland Standard Vac Hose, 40 ft × 1.5 in, item 220840(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026SOS Pool — Taylor Complete FAS-DPD test kit, K-2006(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026EZ Pools — Taylor K-2006 Complete Test Kit (FAS-DPD)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PoolWeb — Taylor Service Complete FAS-DPD test kit, 2 oz, K-2006C(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — 2025 Instructions for Form FTB 3522, LLC Tax Voucher(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Computed from 8 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded.
Startup cost
Coming soon
Time to first revenue
Moderate
Difficulty
Moderate
Physical demand
Yes
Can run solo
Year-round in the Sun Belt; spring–fall in colder states
Seasonality
* Startup cost excludes budget lines we haven't sourced yet.
Risk Meter
Eight factors from this guide's own data, each scored 1 (lowest risk) to 5 (highest). Every score shows why.
Overall risk
Moderate
2 out of 5
Average of 6 of 8 factors, weighted equally. 1 is the lowest risk and 5 the highest. It measures risk, not how much you'll earn, and it isn't a prediction. How we score risk.
Money at risk
Not scoredAt least $1,262
6 startup lines aren't sourced yet, so the real total is higher. We'll score this once the budget is complete.
Time to earn it back
Not scoredNot scored yet
Some startup or operating cost lines aren't sourced yet, so a payback time would look shorter than it really is.
Franchise closure rate
3 / 59.2% a yearPending verificationSourcesASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Pool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Poolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Premier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Closures = terminations + non-renewals + outlets that ceased operations, divided by franchised outlets at the start of the year.
Average of 4 brands: ASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 7.7% (2025); Pool Scouts 15.3% (2025); Poolwerx 5.6% (2025); Premier Pool Service 8.3% (2025). Our calculation from each FDD's Item 20.
Loan default rate
3 / 58.2% vs 7.2% for all industriesPending verificationSourceSBA 7(a) FOIA loan-level data, files as of September 30, 2026 (our count by NAICS code)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Charged off = the SBA wrote off the unpaid balance after the borrower stopped paying. An industry code can include businesses unlike this one.
113 of 1,375 SBA 7(a) loans to Other Services to Buildings and Dwellings (NAICS 561790), approved FY2010–2019, were charged off. Our count from the SBA's loan-level data; 128 loans were still open, so the final rate may be slightly higher.
Demand trend
1 / 5Growing much faster than all businessesPending verificationSourcesU.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2019, U.S. file (cbp19us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026U.S. Census Bureau — County Business Patterns 2023, U.S. file (cbp23us)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026
Other services to buildings and dwellings, which includes pool cleaning (NAICS 561790) employer establishments +21.8% (14,841 to 18,069) vs +5.1% for all industries, 2019–2023. The category also covers other building services such as duct and gutter cleaning.
Licensing and rules
1 / 5Light
Routine pool cleaning and chemical service needs only a city or county business license; equipment repairs of $1,000 or more need a CSLB C-61/D-35 license (see Licensing).
Customer concentration
1 / 5Many customers
Recurring weekly service for many households; losing one account barely matters.
Physical demand
3 / 5Moderate
From the guide's at-a-glance rating; see the risks section for details.
Franchise vs. Independent
Same type of business. Two very different paths.
| Franchise (4 brands) | Independent | |
|---|---|---|
| Franchise fee | $25,000 – $50,000Pending verificationSourcesASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Pool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Poolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Premier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Range across 4 franchise brands. | $0 |
| Initial investment | $43,150 – $213,171Pending verificationSourcesASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Pool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Poolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Premier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 4 brands. | $1,200 – $1,262*Pending verificationSourcesLeslie's — Pro Pool Cleaning Maintenance Bundle (8–16 ft telepole, 18-inch leaf rake, 22-inch brush), item B-2102(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Leslie's — Pro Grade 14-inch Vacuum Head, item 70173(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Leslie's — Haviland Standard Vac Hose, 40 ft × 1.5 in, item 220840(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026SOS Pool — Taylor Complete FAS-DPD test kit, K-2006(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026EZ Pools — Taylor K-2006 Complete Test Kit (FAS-DPD)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PoolWeb — Taylor Service Complete FAS-DPD test kit, 2 oz, K-2006C(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — 2025 Instructions for Form FTB 3522, LLC Tax Voucher(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Computed from 8 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded. |
| Ongoing royalties | 5.45% – 8% of revenuePending verificationSourcesASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Pool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Poolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Premier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 4 brands. | None |
| Operating costs (5 years) | $26,460 – $27,660Pending verificationSourcesInsureon — pool cleaning business insurance cost(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Jobber — pricing(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — 2025 Instructions for Form FTB 3522, LLC Tax Voucher(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths. | $26,460 – $27,660 |
| Brand, training, and support | Included | You build your own |
| 5-year total cost | $81,349 – $307,831 | $27,660 – $28,922* |
Franchise fee
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $25,000 – $50,000Pending verificationSourcesASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Pool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Poolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Premier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Range across 4 franchise brands.
- Independent
- $0
Initial investment
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $43,150 – $213,171Pending verificationSourcesASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Pool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Poolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Premier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026FDD Item 7 estimated initial investment (includes the franchise fee), across 4 brands.
- Independent
- $1,200 – $1,262*Pending verificationSourcesLeslie's — Pro Pool Cleaning Maintenance Bundle (8–16 ft telepole, 18-inch leaf rake, 22-inch brush), item B-2102(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Leslie's — Pro Grade 14-inch Vacuum Head, item 70173(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Leslie's — Haviland Standard Vac Hose, 40 ft × 1.5 in, item 220840(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026SOS Pool — Taylor Complete FAS-DPD test kit, K-2006(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026EZ Pools — Taylor K-2006 Complete Test Kit (FAS-DPD)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026PoolWeb — Taylor Service Complete FAS-DPD test kit, 2 oz, K-2006C(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — 2025 Instructions for Form FTB 3522, LLC Tax Voucher(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Computed from 8 startup budget line items: lean plan low to professional plan high. Some lines are not sourced yet and are excluded.
Ongoing royalties
- Franchise (4 brands)
- 5.45% – 8% of revenuePending verificationSourcesASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Pool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Poolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Premier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Percent of gross revenue, across 4 brands.
- Independent
- None
Operating costs (5 years)
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $26,460 – $27,660Pending verificationSourcesInsureon — pool cleaning business insurance cost(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Jobber — pricing(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026California Franchise Tax Board — 2025 Instructions for Form FTB 3522, LLC Tax Voucher(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Five years of the operating costs we have sourced so far (insurance, software, fees), charged to both paths.
- Independent
- $26,460 – $27,660
Brand, training, and support
- Franchise (4 brands)
- Included
- Independent
- You build your own
5-year total cost
- Franchise (4 brands)
- $81,349 – $307,831
- Independent
- $27,660 – $28,922*
5-year totals assume $36,400–$130,000 in yearly revenue (our forecast presets at full volume), the same sourced operating costs (insurance, software, fees) on both paths, and both the lean and professional independent plans. Franchise investment figures come from each brand's disclosure (FDD Item 7) and already include the franchise fee. * Excludes independent startup lines we haven't sourced yet. Adjust the assumptions.
What franchisees report taking in
From each brand's own disclosure (FDD Item 19), copied exactly. These are gross sales before royalties and costs, not profit, and not a promise of what you will earn.
ASP – America's Swimming Pool Company
Item 19 reports 2025 gross revenue per territory by quartile for 127 territories open all year, plus system-wide sales and net profit tables.
- Average 2025 gross revenue per territory (127 territories open all of 2025)$910,643 a yearPending verificationSourceASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue before royalties and expenses, not profit. Per territory; some franchisees run several. Excludes 13 territories opened in 2025, 10 that closed and 4 that didn't report a full year. 43 of 127 (34%) exceeded the average.
- Median 2025 gross revenue per territory (127 territories open all of 2025)$594,460 a yearPending verificationSourceASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue, not profit. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 gross revenue, bottom 25% of territories (32 territories)$187,849 a yearPending verificationSourceASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Lowest in this group: $21,725. Gross revenue, not profit.
- Average 2025 gross revenue, top 25% of territories (32 territories)$2,117,078 a yearPending verificationSourceASP – America's Swimming Pool Company 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 24, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Highest in this group: $4,518,150. Gross revenue, not profit.
Pool Scouts
Item 19 reports 2025 revenue for 60 outlets open at least 12 months, by the year they opened and for year-round markets, plus an income statement for the franchisor's own Virginia locations.
- Average 2025 revenue, mature outlets (34 outlets opened 2017–2021)$384,197 a yearPending verificationSourcePool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue, not profit. 13 of 34 (38%) exceeded the average. Repair work made up 22% of revenue across the 60 outlets in 2025.
- Median 2025 revenue, mature outlets (34 outlets opened 2017–2021)$226,801 a yearPending verificationSourcePool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue, not profit. Range: $5,402 to $1,810,932.
- Average 2025 revenue, mature outlets in year-round (warm-climate) markets$239,165 a yearPending verificationSourcePool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Median $177,886. Gross revenue, not profit. Your results may differ.
- Average 2025 revenue, outlets that opened in 2024 (4 outlets)$82,799 a yearPending verificationSourcePool Scouts 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued April 21, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Median $103,892. Gross revenue, not profit.
Poolwerx
Item 19 reports 2025 gross revenue invoiced by 31 franchisees open all year, split by number of territories and by mobile-only versus mobile-plus-retail.
- Average 2025 gross revenue, mobile-only franchisees with 1 territory (10 franchisees)$188,847 a yearPending verificationSourcePoolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue invoiced, not profit. 4 of 10 (40%) met or exceeded the average. Range $82,943–$404,730.
- Median 2025 gross revenue, mobile-only franchisees with 1 territory (10 franchisees)$183,840 a yearPending verificationSourcePoolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue invoiced, not profit.
- Average 2025 gross revenue, all mobile-only franchisees (17 franchisees)$256,893 a yearPending verificationSourcePoolwerx 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued May 29, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Median $185,189; 5 of 17 (29%) met or exceeded the average. Excludes 12 franchisees that opened in 2025 and 2 that were not operating. Gross revenue, not profit.
Premier Pool Service
Item 19 reports 2025 gross revenue and weekly accounts by quartile for 33 franchises open all year, and first-year revenue for 9 franchisees that opened in 2024.
- Average 2025 gross revenue per franchise (33 franchises open all of 2025)$658,605 a yearPending verificationSourcePremier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue before any expenses or royalties, not profit. Excludes 13 franchises that opened in 2025 and 3 that closed. The table's row label says 'All 34', but the count column says 33.
- Median 2025 gross revenue per franchise (33 franchises open all of 2025)$316,633 a yearPending verificationSourcePremier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Gross revenue, not profit. Median weekly accounts served: 74.
- Average 2025 gross revenue, bottom 25% of franchises (9 franchises)$102,170 a yearPending verificationSourcePremier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Average 33 weekly accounts in this group. Gross revenue, not profit.
- First 12 months' gross revenue, 9 franchisees that opened in 2024 (lowest to highest)$33,580 – $373,680 a yearPending verificationSourcePremier Pool Service / Pinnacle Pool Service (PPSF, LLC) 2026 FDD (Minnesota CARDS), issued March 31, 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Excludes 1 franchisee that opened in 2024 and closed before 12 months. Some franchisees achieved these amounts; your results may differ.
What a franchise does give you
Franchises cost more, but the fees buy real things. Weigh them honestly.
- Established national brand in residential pool service
- Initial training: 32 classroom hours and 64 hours on the job
- Franchisor runs your launch direct-mail campaigns and a call center
- Required route software (Pool Brain) and a starter truck kit are supplied
- Royalty rate steps down as yearly revenue grows
- Franchisor-run direct-mail and digital marketing programs
- Initial training of 8–10 days, classroom and field
- Bundled business software, phones and website
- Sister brand of Home Clean Heroes, part of a larger franchise group
- International brand that started in Australia
- About 11 days of initial training
- Integrated technology platform including water-testing software
- Option to add a retail store later
- Lowest initial investment of the brands shown here
- Lower royalty (5.45%) than the other brands shown
- Discounted entry for owners converting an existing pool route
- Online and on-the-job initial training
Going independent means
- You keep 100% of what you earn after costs — no royalties.
- You build your own brand, systems, and customer base.
- You need more self-reliance, especially in the first year.
Startup Budget
One-time costs to launch, from cited sources. Totals are added up from the lines below.
| Item | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Telescopic pole, leaf rake and wall brush (pro bundle)Pending verificationSourceLeslie's — Pro Pool Cleaning Maintenance Bundle (8–16 ft telepole, 18-inch leaf rake, 22-inch brush), item B-2102(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Leslie's sale price ($149.97 regular). Oversize delivery adds $49.95; store pickup may avoid it. | $100 | $100 | $100 |
| Pool vacuum head, 14-inch pro gradePending verificationSourceLeslie's — Pro Grade 14-inch Vacuum Head, item 70173(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Not recommended for vinyl or fiberglass pools; you may need a second, softer head for those. | $50 | $50 | $50 |
| Vacuum hose, 40 ft × 1.5 inPending verificationSourceLeslie's — Haviland Standard Vac Hose, 40 ft × 1.5 in, item 220840(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026 | $70 | $70 | $70 |
| Water test kit, Taylor K-2006 (FAS-DPD)Pending verificationSourcesSOS Pool — Taylor Complete FAS-DPD test kit, K-2006(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026EZ Pools — Taylor K-2006 Complete Test Kit (FAS-DPD)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Same kit at two retailers: $89.99 and $93.99. | $90 | $92 | $94 |
| LLC filing (Articles of Organization)Pending verificationSourceCalifornia Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026 | $70 | $70 | $70 |
| LLC Statement of InformationPending verificationSourceCalifornia Secretary of State — LLC forms and fees(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Due within 90 days of forming the LLC, then every two years. | $20 | $20 | $20 |
| California LLC annual tax (first year)Pending verificationSourceCalifornia Franchise Tax Board — 2025 Instructions for Form FTB 3522, LLC Tax Voucher(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Every LLC with articles accepted by the Secretary of State owes the $800 annual tax. | $800 | $800 | $800 |
| City or county business license | Data coming soon | ||
| Starting chemical stock (chlorine, acid, stabilizer, tablets) | Data coming soon | ||
| Chemical storage and transport gear (secured bins, spill kit) | Data coming soon | ||
| Safety gear (chemical gloves, eye protection, sun protection) | Data coming soon | ||
| Route and billing software setup | Data coming soon | ||
| Marketing launch (door hangers, simple website, vehicle signs) | Data coming soon | ||
| Total (sourced lines only) | $1,200 | $1,202 | $1,204 |
Share of mid estimate
- Telescopic pole, leaf rake and wall brush (pro bundle)8%
- Pool vacuum head, 14-inch pro grade4%
- Vacuum hose, 40 ft × 1.5 in6%
- Water test kit, Taylor K-2006 (FAS-DPD)8%
- LLC filing (Articles of Organization)6%
- LLC Statement of Information2%
- California LLC annual tax (first year)67%
Budget spreadsheet
Every line with its sources, included in the complete kit.
Mid is the halfway point between low and high where a source gives only a range.
The total leaves out 6 lines we haven't sourced yet. We don't guess.
AlternativePickup truck (if you don't already own a suitable vehicle): $43,790 – $67,573Pending verificationSourceCox Automotive — Kelley Blue Book average transaction price tables, September 2026(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Average new-vehicle transaction prices for September 2026: small/mid-size pickup $43,790; full-size pickup $67,573.
Most owners start with a vehicle they already have. A used truck costs less, but we have no sourced used-truck figure yet. Not included in the total above.
AlternativeCertified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) course: $385 – $435Pending verificationSourceTriangle Apartment Association — Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) course, June 11–12, 2026 (Raleigh, NC)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026One two-day course in North Carolina: $385 for association members, $435 for non-members. California course prices may differ.
Optional for a residential route; useful training in water chemistry and safety. Not included in the total above.
24-Month Forecast
An example to plan with. Every assumption is yours to change.
This is an estimate, not a prediction
Ticket is the low end of Fixr's $20–$50 per weekly visit. Pools per week, ramp-up, chemical cost share and the seasonal shape are our assumptions, not operator data. Change any assumption to match your market. Your results will differ.
- Break-even
- Month 6
- Year-1 revenue
- $20,375
- Year-2 profit
- $20,068
Show monthly table
| Month | Jobs | Revenue | Costs | Profit | Cumulative cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 (Mar) | 20.6 | $412 | $575 | -$163 | -$1,365 |
| 2 (Apr) | 33.5 | $670 | $652 | $18 | -$1,347 |
| 3 (May) | 47.6 | $951 | $736 | $215 | -$1,132 |
| 4 (Jun) | 62.8 | $1,257 | $828 | $429 | -$703 |
| 5 (Jul) | 75.8 | $1,517 | $906 | $611 | -$93 |
| 6 (Aug) | 88.8 | $1,777 | $984 | $793 | $700 |
| 7 (Sep) | 97.2 | $1,944 | $1,034 | $910 | $1,610 |
| 8 (Oct) | 104.4 | $2,088 | $1,077 | $1,011 | $2,620 |
| 9 (Nov) | 110.4 | $2,208 | $1,113 | $1,095 | $3,715 |
| 10 (Dec) | 115.2 | $2,305 | $1,142 | $1,162 | $4,877 |
| 11 (Jan) | 125.9 | $2,517 | $1,206 | $1,311 | $6,188 |
| 12 (Feb) | 136.5 | $2,730 | $1,270 | $1,460 | $7,648 |
| 13 (Mar) | 144.1 | $2,882 | $1,316 | $1,566 | $9,214 |
| 14 (Apr) | 151.7 | $3,033 | $1,361 | $1,672 | $10,887 |
| 15 (May) | 159.3 | $3,185 | $1,407 | $1,779 | $12,665 |
| 16 (Jun) | 166.8 | $3,337 | $1,452 | $1,885 | $14,550 |
| 17 (Jul) | 166.8 | $3,337 | $1,452 | $1,885 | $16,435 |
| 18 (Aug) | 166.8 | $3,337 | $1,452 | $1,885 | $18,319 |
| 19 (Sep) | 159.3 | $3,185 | $1,407 | $1,779 | $20,098 |
| 20 (Oct) | 151.7 | $3,033 | $1,361 | $1,672 | $21,770 |
| 21 (Nov) | 144.1 | $2,882 | $1,316 | $1,566 | $23,336 |
| 22 (Dec) | 136.5 | $2,730 | $1,270 | $1,460 | $24,796 |
| 23 (Jan) | 136.5 | $2,730 | $1,270 | $1,460 | $26,256 |
| 24 (Feb) | 136.5 | $2,730 | $1,270 | $1,460 | $27,716 |
Pricing
What customers typically pay, from large-sample cost data.
What customers pay
- Weekly service, per visit (national)$20 – $50Pending verificationSourceFixr — pool maintenance cost (updated January 31, 2025)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Fixr: $20–$50 per week, or $1,040–$2,600 a year on a weekly contract. No published sample size.
- Basic pool cleaning, monthly service (national)$80 – $200 a monthPending verificationSourceThumbtack — how much does it cost to maintain a pool? (updated October 28, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Thumbtack average $86. The page also calls this '$86 per visit', so it is unclear whether it is per month or per visit. No published sample size.
- Pool maintenance, yearly total (national average)$1,032 a yearPending verificationSourceThumbtack — how much does it cost to maintain a pool? (updated October 28, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026No published sample size.
- Once-a-month service (national)$30 – $90 a monthPending verificationSourceFixr — pool maintenance cost (updated January 31, 2025)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026One visit a month, not weekly. No published sample size.
- One-time pool cleaning (national average range)$229 – $278Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — pool cleaning prices (updated March 31, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Thumbtack. Fixr gives $90–$270 for a one-time visit outside a plan. No published sample size.
- Pool opening, spring (national)$85 – $350Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — how much does it cost to maintain a pool? (updated October 28, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Thumbtack average $95. Fixr puts the average at $300 ($250–$350). Mostly a colder-state service. No published sample size.
- Pool opening, spring (Fixr national average)$250 – $350Pending verificationSourceFixr — pool opening cost (updated January 31, 2025)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026No published sample size.
- Pool closing / winterizing (national)$85 – $500Pending verificationSourceThumbtack — how much does it cost to maintain a pool? (updated October 28, 2026)(opens in a new tab)Tier 2 · Industry report · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Thumbtack average $95. Fixr gives $200–$300. Mostly a colder-state service. No published sample size.
What similar businesses take in
Context only, not a promise of what you will earn. Government figures cover every business in the industry; guide figures are rougher. Tap the source icon to see which is which. These are revenue, before costs.
- Average receipts per nonemployer (solo) business, NAICS 56179 Other Services to Buildings and Dwellings, 2023$40,915 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — Nonemployer Statistics 2023, U.S. file (NAICS 56179)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts ($5,814,574,000) divided by 142,112 nonemployer businesses. This industry code includes pool cleaning but also other building services, such as duct and gutter cleaning. Gross receipts, not profit. Shown for context only — not a promise or prediction of your results.
- Average receipts per employer firm, NAICS 561790 Other Services to Buildings and Dwellings, 2022$790,833 a yearPending verificationSourceU.S. Census Bureau — Statistics of U.S. Businesses 2022, firms and receipts by enterprise receipts size (NAICS 561790)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Total receipts ($13,714,624,000) divided by 17,342 employer firms; 3,732 of those firms took in under $100,000. Includes non-pool building services and a few very large firms that pull the average up. Gross receipts, not profit. Shown for context only — not a promise or prediction of your results.
Key Risks and How to Manage Them
Demand depends on where you live
Weekly year-round service is mostly a Sun Belt business. In colder states the season is roughly spring to fall, with openings and closings at each end, so a route earns little in winter.
How to manage it: Count the in-ground pools in your area before you commit, and in a seasonal market plan a cash reserve or a winter side service.
Chemical handling
Chlorine, muriatic acid and other pool chemicals can burn skin and eyes and release dangerous fumes if mixed. They also have to be stored and carried safely in your vehicle.
How to manage it: Follow every label, never mix chemicals, wear gloves and eye protection, and keep acids and chlorine apart in secured containers.
Heat and physical strain
The work is outdoors in strong sun, with lifting of chemical jugs, long poles and repeated bending. For someone in their mid-50s, summer heat is the main concern.
How to manage it: Start early in the day, drink water, schedule shade breaks, keep loads light by buying smaller containers, and cap the number of pools per day.
Repair work needs a license in California
Replacing pumps, filters, heaters or doing acid washes falls under a CSLB contractor classification. Doing that work unlicensed above the minor-work limit can bring fines.
How to manage it: Keep to cleaning and chemistry at first, refer repairs to a licensed contractor, and get a C-61/D-35 license if you want repair income.
Liability for damage or water problems
A chemical mistake can stain surfaces or damage equipment, and an unlocked gate can raise serious safety concerns for the homeowner.
How to manage it: Carry general liability insurance, log every reading and dose, and always close gates and covers behind you.
Customer churn and price competition
Many small operators compete on monthly price, and customers drop service when they sell the house or try doing it themselves.
How to manage it: Keep routes tight to save drive time, communicate after every visit, and compete on reliability rather than the lowest price.
Licensing by State
Requirements vary by state and local jurisdiction.
More states are coming.
A general guide only. Rules change and vary by city and county — confirm with your local government before you start.
City or county business license
Pending verificationRequired almost everywhere in California. Check with the city where your business is based; some cities also have their own rules for pool service companies.
Routine cleaning and chemicals: no CSLB classification names it
Pending verificationPending verificationSourcesCSLB — C-53 Swimming Pool Contractor classification(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026CSLB — D-35 Pool and Spa Maintenance Contractor classification (C-61 limited specialty)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026The C-53 Swimming Pool license covers building pools, spas and hot tubs. The C-61/D-35 Pool and Spa Maintenance license covers installing, replacing or repairing motors, pumps, filters, gas heaters, above-ground piping, lights and similar equipment, plus acid baths. Neither definition mentions routine skimming, brushing, vacuuming or chemical balancing. We found no CSLB statement saying in so many words that this routine work is exempt, so ask the CSLB before you start if you are unsure.
Verify with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB)(opens in a new tab)Equipment repair and acid washes: C-61/D-35 license, or minor work under $1,000
Pending verificationPending verificationSourcesCSLB — D-35 Pool and Spa Maintenance Contractor classification (C-61 limited specialty)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026CSLB Industry Bulletin #24-07 — minor work exemption rises to $1,000 (AB 2622)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026Since January 1, 2025 (AB 2622), an unlicensed person may take a job under $1,000 for labor and materials only if it needs no permit of any kind and they employ no one on it. Ads must say you are not licensed. What is unclear: whether a given pump, heater or electrical replacement needs a permit depends on your city, so the exemption may not apply even under $1,000. Check with your city's building department and the CSLB.
Verify with the Contractors State License Board (CSLB)(opens in a new tab)Pool chemicals: no DPR pest control license, with conditions
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceCalifornia DPR — Pesticide Use Enforcement Program Standards Compendium, Vol. 1, Chapter 3 (rev. 10/2024): swimming pool service companies(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026California's Department of Pesticide Regulation treats pool sanitizers as pesticides, but businesses servicing swimming pools are exempt from the Pest Control Business license (Food and Agricultural Code §11531(f)) unless they use a restricted material. You must still follow product labels and worker safety rules, and your local health department's rules on chlorine use.
Verify with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation, Licensing and Certification(opens in a new tab)Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) training — optional for residential routes
Pending verificationPending verificationSourceTriangle Apartment Association — Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) course, June 11–12, 2026 (Raleigh, NC)(opens in a new tab)Tier 1 · Primary source · Accessed October 31, 2026Last verified October 31, 2026The CPO course is a two-day class in water chemistry and pool safety. We found no statewide requirement for it on a residential route; public and HOA pools are regulated by county environmental health departments, which may ask for operator training.
The Playbook
A step-by-step guide from setup to growth.
Phase 1
Setup
- Check how many in-ground pools are in your area
- Choose your business structure and get a city license
- Decide whether you'll do repairs or refer them out
- Buy tools, a test kit and starting chemicals
- Get insured
- Set up route and billing software
Phase 2
Launch
Included in the complete kit
Phase 3
Marketing
Included in the complete kit
Phase 4
Route building
Included in the complete kit
Phase 5
Operations
Included in the complete kit
Phase 6
Hiring
Included in the complete kit
Phase 7
Growth
Included in the complete kit
Suppliers and Tools
Vendors independent operators use.
No supplier pays to be listed. If we ever earn a referral fee from a link, it will say “Affiliate link” right next to it.
Pool supplies and chemicals
Retail and trade suppliers for tools, parts and chemicals.
Route and billing software
Scheduling, routing, chemical logs and invoicing.
The Kit Is Coming
Everything on this page is free. The downloadable kit (playbook, spreadsheets, templates) is in the works.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a franchise?
No. The Open Franchise is not a franchise and does not sell franchises. You start and own your business yourself, with no franchise fee, royalties, or territory rules. We sell guides and kits; that's all.
Do I need a contractor license to clean pools in California?
The CSLB pool classifications describe construction and equipment repair, not routine cleaning and chemical balancing, and the state pesticide agency exempts pool service from its pest control business license. The CSLB has not published a plain statement on routine cleaning, so confirm with them. Equipment repair over $1,000, or any repair that needs a permit, needs a license.
Does this work outside warm states?
Yes, but differently. In colder states the season runs roughly spring to fall, and openings and closings become a bigger share of the work. Expect little route income in winter.
Are these numbers guaranteed?
No. Every cost and price is an estimate from a cited source, shown as a range where possible, with the date we last checked it. Your costs and results will depend on your market and choices.
Figures last verified October 31, 2026. Every number links to its source. See all sources for this page.