- 2024 Franchise 500 Rank
-
#497 Ranked #490 last year
- Initial investment
-
$103K - $135K
- Units as of 2024
-
93 97.9% over 3 years
Launched in 2016, Pool Scouts was born out of a dire need for a professional, high-quality pool cleaning service provider.
A branch of their parent company, Buzz Franchise Brands, Pool Scouts promises "perfect pools, scout’s honor.” Although a relatively new company, Pool Scouts has exploded and now has locations spanning 10 states.
If you’re ready to join this company and make a ‘splash’ in the pool cleaning industry, read on to learn everything you need to know about opening a Pool Scouts franchise.
Why choose Pool Scouts?
Guaranteeing more than just a clean pool, Pool Scouts prides itself on clear communication and always providing a professional and reliable service that pool owners can trust.
Armed with a detailed checklist, the pool technicians have everything they need to ensure every pool is cleaned correctly and effectively. Utilizing the newest technology and treatment options, Pool Scouts is a leader in the pool servicing industry.
A few ways Pool Scouts stand apart from their competitors is their digital water testing and post-service reports that effectively communicate what was done with the homeowners.
Related: To Make a Smart Franchise Purchase, Ask These 3 Contrarian Questions | Entrepreneur
What services do they provide?
Pool Scouts is more than just a pool cleaning service. Whether a customer is looking for a one-time cleaning or wants to be put on a regular cleaning schedule, Pool Scouts can accommodate just about any customer request.
Recurring pool cleaning
Offering weekly and bi-weekly cleaning options, Pool Scouts is always ready to make sure their customers have a clean pool to enjoy.
Utilizing the latest water testing technology and pool treatment options, the technicians can deal effectively with any issues. The water test results are then shared with the customer so that they are informed about what is going on.
Their weekly and bi-weekly services include:
- Removing leaves and debris from the surface of the pool.
- Cleaning the tile surface at the waterline.
- Cleaning the skimmer basket(s) and the pump strainer basket(s).
- Filter cleaning or backwashing.
- Filter pressure check.
- Review all the equipment to ensure everything works correctly and check for leaks.
- Vacuuming the bottom of the pool.
- Water testing.
- Balancing the pool water with necessary chemicals.
- Blowing off the pool deck.
One-time pool cleaning
For customers who just want a once-a-year, thorough pool cleaning, Pool Scouts also has them covered.
Equipped to handle even the dirtiest of pools, the technicians will have the pool properly cleaned and operational in no time.
Pool maintenance service
On top of cleaning, Pool Scouts also offer a pool maintenance service that keeps residential pools running productively throughout the entire season and helps eliminate issues that may arise.
Regular pool maintenance is always recommended to help ensure the water is clean and safe and the pool components work effectively.
A few of the regular maintenance services Pool Scouts provides are:
- Filter cleaning.
- Minor repairs, dependent on pool location.
- Replacement of salt cell.
- Inspection of the pool.
Specialty services
Pool Scouts go above and beyond the services listed above. Their goal is to provide any pool service their customer may need.
A few of their specialty services include:
- Seasonal opening and closing services.
- Kickstart pool service (includes water testing, shocking, balancing and cleaning)
- Green pool service (this involves shocking the pool using specialized chemicals to remove the algae, which is unsafe to swim in).
- Saltwater conversion.
- Pool cover replacements.
Related: Smart Questions to Ask When Evaluating a Franchise Company
What steps are there to owning a franchise?
When you think about becoming an entrepreneur and starting a Pool Scouts franchise opportunity, you need to ensure it is the right fit for you.
Pool Scouts wants you to be successful and has a proven business model to help ensure your success. The path to ownership consists of four steps, mainly done online or over the phone for your convenience.
Initial contact and intro call
After filling out the Initial Interest Form, potential franchise owners will receive a call from the franchise development team to discuss the franchise opportunity.
The conversation will mainly focus on your personal and professional experience and discuss the market you are interested in.
Dive deeper through calls and webinars
During this in-depth phase, you will learn about all the different parts of the business by watching webinars and talking with the Pool Scouts team.
The Pool Scouts business model will be discussed, and you will review the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) with the development team. You can ask any questions regarding this home-based business opportunity at this stage.
Meet The Team in Virginia Beach
The next step is to attend Meet The Team Day at Pool Scout’s office in Virginia Beach, VA. During the day, you can tour the space and meet with Pool Scouts' corporate team members.
This helps you better understand the company and the franchise opportunity itself.
Sign on and become a Scout
This is the final step in the ownership process once both the franchisor and the franchisee have agreed. Now you are officially a member of the Pool Scouts family.
Related: Become a Franchise Owner in 5 Easy Steps | Entrepreneur
What startup costs are involved?
The associated costs are among the most significant deciding factors in opening a franchise business. Pool Scouts understands this and is proud of being able to keep their franchise fees significantly lower than most franchise opportunities out there.
Being a home-based business, there is no need for a dedicated retail location which helps keep this a low-cost franchise opportunity.
New franchisees can expect to have a total investment starting at $87,490, with a breakdown of the costs as follows:
- Initial franchise fee: $35,000
- Professional fees, insurance, and licenses: $2,300
- Marketing fees: $25,960
- Computer devices, software, and systems: $1,580
- Initial training fees: $1,000
- Additional funds: $20,000
- Vehicle: $1,650
Related: Top 10 Franchise Money Questions Answered
Are there any franchise discounts available?
A proud member of VetFran, Pool Scouts offers a couple of discount franchise opportunities to specific individuals who meet certain criteria.
VetFran program
Pool Scouts is a member of VetFran, a program that offers financial discounts to honorably discharged veterans.
For individuals who meet the criteria, you simply need to contact Pool Scouts to discuss the program. They will assist you in moving forward as a franchise owner.
Community Heroes Discount program
The Community Heroes Discount program, similar to the VetFran program, is offered to current or former full-time law enforcement officers or firefighters as a way of saying thank you for your service.
What training is included?
Pool Scouts understands that business ownership can be intimidating, and they are there to help.
When you open a pool cleaning franchise with Pool Scouts, you are backed by more than 80 years of combined experience with skills and knowledge in marketing, operations, finance and customer service.
Before opening your Pool Scouts franchise, you will receive complete training at the Pool Scouts headquarters in Virginia Beach, VA.
This training covers everything from how to operate the equipment, regulatory compliance, digital and print marketing strategies and current business protocols.
As a franchise owner, just a few of the benefits you will have access to are:
A solid brand
Pool Scouts is a leader in the pool cleaning and maintenance industry. The name “scout” promotes a trustworthy, honest image to the customer, and that is precisely what Pool Scouts delivers.
Marketing expertise
Every Pool Scouts franchisee has access to all the company's promotional products, such as signage, vehicle wraps and letterhead.
Along with the actual physical materials comes a support team to help you use them effectively to help grow your Pool Scouts business.
Call center
Each franchise comes with a 24/7 customer call center so that customers are guaranteed to speak to a human and not a recording.
Best-in-class business management tools
Utilizing state-of-the-art software that simplifies the customer experience Pool Scouts also offers training in accounting to their franchise partners.
Related: Exploring a Franchise Opportunity? 5 Key Questions to Ask. | Entrepreneur
Start a Pool Scouts franchise today
Ranking on Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500 list, with exponential growth since its conception in 2016, you can’t go wrong considering partnering with this franchise company.
If you are looking at starting a successful business, make sure to ‘dive’ into the world of becoming a Pool Scouts franchise owner.
Check out Entrepreneur’s other articles for more information about Pool Scouts and other franchise opportunities.
Company Overview
About Pool Scouts
| Industry | Maintenance |
|---|---|
| Related Categories | Pool Maintenance, Miscellaneous Maintenance Businesses, Miscellaneous Services, Home Improvement |
| Founded | 2016 |
| Parent Company | Buzz Franchise Brands |
| Leadership | David Mele, President |
| Corporate Address |
2829 Guardian Ln., #100 Virginia Beach, VA 23452 |
| Social | Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube |
More from Pool Scouts
Dive into Success - Pool Scouts takes pool care to the next level.
Pool Scouts isn't just about skimming the surface – we're making waves in the pool care industry with an award-winning reputation. Splash into success with the franchise that's been making a cannonball-sized impact, our recent accolades across franchising include:
- 2023 Entrepreneur Franchise 500 (third year in a row)
- 2023 Entrepreneur Top Low-Cost Franchise
- 2023 Entrepreneur Top Home-Based Franchise
- 2023 Franchise Business Review Top Low-Cost Franchises
As a leader in our space, we leverage a proven franchising model to tap into the $7 billion pool service industry where pool owners have been craving a more professional approach toward their pool service. Pool Scouts professionalizes the maintenance and service of residential pools, taking pool services to a new level with our state-of-the-art technology and best-in-class customer service.
Pool Scouts is the franchise opportunity poised to make a splash in the industry.
- Elevated level of service in $7 Billion pool care industry
- Repeat customer base providing a recurring stream of revenue
- Proven success in both seasonal and year-round markets
- Backed by proven multi-brand franchisor, Buzz Franchise Brands
- Low-cost, home-based business with fast start up
We don't just clean pools; we make them the life of the party!
Becoming a Pool Scouts franchise partner enables you to build a successful business serving residential customers. At Pool Scouts, our expansive list of services goes beyond mere pool maintenance – it positions your franchise as the ultimate one-stop shop for all things pool care. From recurring cleaning services to year-round repairs, renovations, and indulgent hot tub & spa services, you'll be equipped to meet every customer's unique needs.
Our list of services include:
- Recurring Pool Cleaning Services: Weekly, Bi-weekly, Monthly
- Pool Openings and Closings Services
- Green to Clean Services
- Vinyl Liner Replacements
- Safety Cover Replacement
- Pool Repairs & Maintenance
- Pool Inspections
- Hot Tub & Spa Service
- Pool Renovations through “Scout Approved” Partners
Proven Success in Every Market
Join a franchise that excels in both seasonal and year-round locations. Benefit from our track record of success, where year-round markets enjoy continuous demand for our services, and seasonal markets experience significant surges during key periods – March to May (opening services), June to September (recurring cleaning services), and September to November (closing services).
Customer Service Excellence
Our customer service has our customers doing back flips! We prioritize customer satisfaction and build relationships that make a splash. Through our professional services, you will not only meet but surpass customer expectations, and build relationships that foster repeat business. At Pool Scouts, we prioritize customer service excellence, guided by our distinct Pool Scouts customer service standards and a plus-one service mentality.
Powered by Buzz
Buzz Franchise Brands, a multi-brand franchisor and winner of Inc. 500, backs Pool Scouts as we help franchisees hit the ground running with our onboarding and ongoing support including:
Comprehensive Training Programs:
- All necessary training provided, no prior experience in the pool business is required.
- Initial training programs provided to learn about both business operations and professional pool care techniques.
- Ongoing training sessions to keep franchise owners fully-trained in best practices in pool care and learn new skills to provide additional pool services.
Operational Support:
- Operations manuals and guidelines for consistent business practices.
- Support from business coaches in implementing and managing day-to-day operations.
- Assistance with financial planning and management.
- Guidance on budgeting and financial reporting.
Marketing and Advertising Support:
- National marketing campaigns to promote the brand.
- Local marketing to drive customer recruitment.
- Digital support including website, SEO, social media, digital ads, etc.
- Marketing collateral including vehicle wraps, yard signs, polos, hats, brochures, business cards, and additional apparel, promotional giveaways and print items.
Technology and Systems:
- Access to systems for managing business operations.
- Ongoing technical support.
Franchisee Networking:
- Opportunities for franchisees to connect and share experiences.
- Annual conferences and periodic regional meetings for networking and learning.
Get Started Now!
Since you can start a Pool Scouts out of your home office, this business opportunity provides low start-up costs and can open quickly. We have territories available for motivated individuals looking to make waves in the pool care scene. If you are looking for an add-on or a full-time business, claim your territory today and take control of your future before it is too late! Don't just dream of success – dive in with Pool Scouts.
Pool Scouts…Perfect Pools, Scout’s Honor!
For more Pool Scouts videos, visit youtube.com/poolscouts
Business Overview
| Franchising Since | 2016 (8 years) |
|---|---|
| # of employees at HQ | 69 |
| Where seeking |
This company is offering new franchises in the following US states: Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Iowa, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nevada, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Vermont, Wisconsin, West Virginia, Wyoming |
| # of Units | 93 (as of 2024) |
|
|
|
Information for Franchisees
Here's what you need to know if you're interested in opening a Pool Scouts franchise.
Financial Requirements & Ongoing Fees
Here's what you can expect to spend to start the business and what ongoing fees the franchisor charges throughout the life of the business.
|
Initial Franchise Fee
|
$50,000 |
|---|---|
|
Initial Investment
|
$102,805 - $134,830 |
|
Net Worth Requirement
|
$300,000 |
|
Cash Requirement
|
$75,000 |
|
Veteran Incentives
|
20% off franchise fee |
|
Royalty Fee
|
8% |
|
Ad Royalty Fee
|
2% |
|
Term of Agreement
|
10 years |
| Is franchise term renewable? | Yes |
Financing Options
Some franchisors offer in-house financing, while others have relationships with third-party financing sources to which they refer qualified franchisees.
| Third Party Financing | Pool Scouts has relationships with third-party sources which offer financing to cover the following: franchise fee, startup costs, equipment, inventory, accounts receivable, payroll |
|---|
Training & Support Offered
Franchisors offer initial training programs and a variety of ongoing support options to help franchisees run their businesses.
| On-The-Job Training | 31 hours |
|---|---|
| Classroom Training | 30 hours |
| Ongoing Support |
Newsletter
Meetings & Conventions
Toll-Free Line
Grand Opening
Security & Safety Procedures
Field Operations
Proprietary Software
Franchisee Intranet Platform
|
| Marketing Support |
Ad Templates
National Media
Regional Advertising
Social Media
SEO
Website Development
Email Marketing
Loyalty Program/App
|
Operations
Additional details about running this franchise.
| Is absentee ownership allowed? | No |
|---|---|
|
Can this franchise be run from home/mobile unit?
|
Yes |
|
Can this franchise be run part time?
|
No |
| # of employees required to run | 2 |
|
Are exclusive territories available?
|
Yes |
Franchise 500 Ranking History
Compare where Pool Scouts landed on this year's Franchise 500 Ranking versus previous years.
Additional Rankings
Curious to know where Pool Scouts ranked on other franchise lists? Find out below.
Sign Up for Our Franchise Newsletter
Stay up to date on the latest news and trends affecting the franchise industry.
Related Franchise Content
Catch up on the latest franchise news, trends, and more.
KFC Is Launching a Chicken Tenders-Focused Concept Called Saucy — Here's When and Where It Opens
The chicken chain is making a strategic pivot towards the growing demand for customizable, sauce-heavy meals.
The UPS Store Franchise is Ranked #1 in its Category by Entrepreneur
Owning a UPS Store franchise comes with strong brand recognition and an extensive product offering.
Taco Bell Is Launching Chicken Nuggets — Here's When and Where to Get Yours
The fast-food giant is putting its own spin on chicken nuggets for the first time.
How Franchising Can Alleviate Entrepreneurial Imposter Syndrome
The franchise model can alleviate entrepreneurial imposter syndrome and provide an alternative path towards professional independence.
Kick-Start Your Small Business With These Cost Effective Strategies
Starting a small business is an exciting adventure, brimming with both opportunities and challenges. A key to success is effectively managing costs from the outset.
Taco Bell Is Testing a Coffeehouse-Style Concept With Cold Brew and Agua Fresca — But Only in These Locations
The Live Más Café provides customers with an elevated experience and menu.