
We chat to STUART ROBERTSON about the ins and outs of his pool services business.
What services does your business offer?
We repair swimming pools, Jacuzzis and koi ponds. We renovate, install and maintain pools.
Where in East London do you operate?
I am currently based in Chiselhurst and I work mostly there because it is very central and I live in that area. We also cover most of town as well.
How did you get started in this line of work?
I joined the pool industry in 2012 after working with appliances for a few years. After I was retrenched in May 2020 due to the extended Covid lockdown, I started on my own by just doing maintenance and minor repairs to pools, then after a few months my renovations took off.
What skills or qualifications are needed in your line of work?
It is important to have good communication skills to be able to deal with your customers and staff professionally. One must also have skills in plumbing, electrical work, building and chemicals.
What sets you apart from other pool services in East London?
There are so many of us in a small city and also lots of individuals.
We do the same thing but we mostly work together. Some of us do work on projects hand- in-hand at times.
What are some of the challenges you deal with in your business?
One of the biggest challenges we face is loadshedding, which slows our productivity down. The economy has also affected us. We also struggle with high fuel costs, water restrictions and sometimes the odd non-payments where we end up having to take legal action.
What are some of your goals for your business?
My goal is to expand one day by investing in more vehicles. I would also like to start getting contracts with schools and also provide more work for my staff so they can put food on the table.
What do you think your business needs to reach the next level, the goals you’ve set?
We need contracts with the schools and more consistent projects each month.
Is there anything else you would like our readers to know about your business? Where can people reach you?
Apart from pools, we repair and paint damaged walls, and do paving of patios. I am fortunate to have a good team of skilled workers. Also, the maintaining of pools is done by an experienced technician.
Whatsapp/call 060-610-9950 or email sr.robertson24@ gmail.com or visit Facebook: Stuarts Pool Services.