It's a really tough question. Sometimes, no matter how diligent your search, it's so hard to tell if you are going to get the quality of care you should be. At least make sure your pool man is qualified and a member of the Institute of Swimming Pool Engineers (ISPE) You should also check their references - good pool cleaners will have plenty to choose from. After that - we think looking after swimming pools is about pride. Pride in results and the attention to detail it takes to achieve them. When someone is proud of what they do, this is often reflected in how they look after their own appearence and equipment. A professional pool man will always be neat, tidy, timely and careful with his equipment. If they or their equipment doesn't look up to scratch, then chances are you're not getting the quality of care you should be.