Download the Complete 2025 FDD
Access the full Franchise Disclosure Document for Puddle Pool Services, including all 23 items and exhibits for the focused service model.
Download FDD (PDF) →Important Disclaimer: This analysis is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. Prospective franchisees should conduct their own due diligence, consult with qualified franchise attorneys and accountants, and independently verify all information before making any franchise investment decision. Franchise performance can vary significantly based on market conditions, operator skill, and numerous other factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the business model?
Professional residential and commercial pool, spa, hot tub, and water features cleaning and maintenance services
When was the FDD issued?
March 24, 2025
What is the initial franchise fee?
$49,500 to $343,500 (varies by territory count)
What type of territory is granted?
Exclusive limited protected territory (Alternate Channels reserved)
What is the total estimated initial investment?
According to the FDD: "The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Puddle Pool Services franchise ranges from $98,100 - $122,800. This includes $67,800 to $73,500 that must be paid to the franchisor." The Initial Franchise Fee is tiered:
- 1 territory: $49,500
- Up to 10 territories: $343,500
- Additional fee: $4.00 per pool over 10,000 households in the territory
Does Puddle Pool Services offer financing?
No. The FDD states: "We do not offer direct or indirect financing. We do not guarantee any note, lease, or obligation on your behalf." This contrasts with ASP, which offers up to 75% financing and 100% conversion financing with potential forgiveness. Franchisees must secure their own funding.
What is the working capital requirement?
The FDD specifies that the working capital estimate is for the first three (3) months of operation. This is included in the total initial investment range of $98,100 to $122,800, though the specific dollar amount is not disclosed in available excerpts.
What are the ongoing fees?
PPS has one of the highest royalty structures in the pool franchise industry:
- Continuing Royalty Fee: Greater of 7% of Gross Revenue or $600 monthly
- Brand Development Fund: 2% of monthly Gross Revenue (may increase to 3%)
- Local Marketing: Minimum $9,000 in Year 1 (over 9 months), then $600/month thereafter
How is territory defined and protected?
PPS grants a limited Protected Area defined by contiguous zip codes, encompassing up to 10,000 households with pools. The franchisee receives an exclusive territory for traditional mobile operations. However, the franchisor reserves significant rights:
- Alternate Channels of Distribution: PPS can sell products and services in your Protected Area through retail stores, the Internet, or direct marketing without compensating you
- Commercial Accounts: PPS may solicit and service pool cleaning companies operating across multiple areas. If you decline to service them, PPS or another franchisee may
What sales restrictions apply to franchisees?
This is a critical operational restriction. According to the FDD: "Franchisee is expressly prohibited from selling products on the internet, to dealers and/or to distributors for subsequent re-sale, and engaging in such sales shall be a material default of this Agreement." This limits revenue diversification and restricts you to direct service provision only.
Who owns customer data and client information?
The franchisor retains complete ownership. According to the FDD: "All Client Information, Client details and information... contained in Client Service History Card, the business Software database or the Client Database Software used by the Franchisee is, and will at all times remain, the sole property of Poolwerx." (Note: This language references Poolwerx, suggesting shared ownership structure or template language.) The Client Data Base is the sole property of the Franchisor, meaning you build goodwill exclusively for the system, not personal equity.
What technology and marketing controls exist?
PPS maintains strict centralized control:
- CRM Software: Must use proprietary "PuddlePower" software
- Daily Reporting: Must daily acknowledge all electronic mail sent by the Franchisor
- Social Media Prohibition: Generally prohibited from creating own Facebook, LinkedIn, or other social media platforms for the business (provided by in-house team)
- Mandatory In-House Marketing: All marketing activities must be conducted through the in-house marketing team
What are the post-termination restrictions?
The non-compete clause is highly restrictive. Former franchisees are prohibited from participating in any competing pool cleaning business for 24 months within fifty (50) miles outside of the boundaries of the former Territory or within fifty (50) miles of any Puddle Pool Services office location. This broad geographic scope significantly limits post-franchise employment options in the pool service industry.
Are spouses required to sign guarantees?
Yes. According to the FDD: "If you are a married individual, your spouse must sign our Personal Guaranty, which is attached to our Franchise Agreement as Attachment 5." This makes spouses liable for all financial obligations even if they have no ownership interest in the franchise.
What is the current system size and track record?
PPS is an early-stage system. According to the FDD: "As of December 31, 2024, there were 1 Franchised Businesses and 1 Corporate Business in operation (the 'Units')." This means you would be entering a very small, rapidly scaling network (net change 2022-2024 is +2 total units). This represents both risk (unproven system) and potential reward (early adopter advantage). There is no litigation or bankruptcy history required to be disclosed.
Is this business seasonal?
According to the FDD: "The market for services is not seasonal but does have peak period in the warmer months." This suggests more consistent year-round revenue compared to construction-focused models, but with predictable seasonal fluctuations requiring cash flow planning.
Are there licensing or certification requirements?
Yes, depending on your state. The FDD notes: "Some states may have licensing, certification, or registration requirements" for pool service professionals. Franchisees are responsible for obtaining and maintaining all required local licenses and certifications. Insurance requirements are included in the Item 7 estimate for the first quarterly premium.
Read the Complete Analysis
See how Puddle Pool Services compares to other pool franchise opportunities
Read Full Analysis →Compare Other Pool Franchise FDDs
- ASP - America's Swimming Pool Company 2025 FDD
- California Pools 2025 FDD
- Poolwerx 2025 FDD
- Premier Pools & Spas 2025 FDD
Important Disclaimer: This analysis is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice. Prospective franchisees should conduct their own due diligence, consult with qualified franchise attorneys and accountants, and independently verify all information before making any franchise investment decision. Franchise performance can vary significantly based on market conditions, operator skill, and numerous other factors.