Steve’s Cautionary Tales, Leak Detection 101 & The Airbnb Insurance Trap

Send us Fan MailThis week, Steve flies solo again — but with good news: Wayne is on the mend and expected back very soon. Until then, Steve brings a full toolbox of stories, lessons, and a deep dive into one of the most-requested topics from pool pros: leak detection as a service.🔥 Segment 1 — Cautionary Tales From the FieldSteve opens with some brutally honest stories from the last month on his route:Losing a couple clients — why it happened, what could’ve prevented it, and why sometimes letting a low-margin client go is actually a win.The dangers of overpromising on scheduling (the 8–12 weeks of missed Mondays story).Why setting expectations — and saying no when you must — is better than apologizing for 12 weeks straight.How daylight savings, shorter days, and rushed afternoons can wreck your rhythm if you don’t adjust.Includes a quick detour into Tales From the Crypt, because of course it does.🔥 Segment 2 — The Test Kit Incident (AKA: The Accidental Heist)Steve recounts a hysterical-but-humbling event:One of his techs “borrowed” a client’s commercial test kit to refill reagents…… forgot it in the truck for DAYS…… which triggered a full internal investigation at a massive resort with security footage, engineer meetings, and finger-pointing.The takeaway: Communication prevents chaos. Even innocent mistakes look guilty on camera. Steve made it right, replaced the kit, and lived to fight another day.🔥 Segment 3 — The Insurance Interlude (with Pat from California Pool Association)Pat joins Steve to tackle a question EVERY pool pro needs to know:“If my client is renting out their pool on Airbnb or Swimpley… does that affect MY liability?”Key takeaways:Yes, they should absolutely tell you. It changes the risk profile dramatically.Some general liability policies do differentiate between residential/commercial use.Airbnb pools are statistically higher risk — more strangers, more alcohol, more incidents.If someone is hosting swim lessons, renting the house, or renting just the pool, call your insurance agent.Injuries, even small ones (like a teenager scraping their leg) can trigger six-figure claims.Acid washes, resurfacing issues, and sharp plaster? Document. Sign waivers. Photograph everything.Talking Pools listeners get $100 off CPA general liability insurance — mention the podcast when you contact them.🔥 Segment 4 — Tools, Training & Showing Up PreparedSteve explains why you should never:Show up without channel locksAttempt a repair without Teflon tapeTry to muscle 3” unions with your bare handsLeave your pole on top of your truck (we’ve all done it once) LaMotte CompanyLaMotte Company is a leading manufacturer of water quality testing products & pool test kitsCalifornia Pool AssociationPool Industry Trade OrganizationCMAHCThe Council for the Model Aquatic Health Code promotes health & safety at public swimming poolsDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media:FacebookInstagramTik TokEmail us: [email protected]