Pay as the work
gets done.
We follow Arizona ROC progress-payment standards on every pool project — so you never pay more than 10% ahead of the work that's actually finished. Landscape and non-pool projects use a simple 50 / 35 / 15 schedule tied to mobilization and completion.
Five draws.
Tied to each phase.
Pool builds at AE follow the Arizona Registrar of Contractors recommended schedule — 15 / 25 / 25 / 25 / 10. Each draw is triggered when that phase of work is verifiably complete and (where applicable) has passed inspection.
- Step 115%Contract signing
Down payment when contract is signed and design is finalized. Permits and engineering begin.
- Step 225%Dig (excavation)
Due after excavation is complete and the pool shape is in the ground.
- Step 325%Plumbing rough-in
Due after plumbing is set, pressure-tested, and passes rough-in inspection.
- Step 425%Decking
Due after the surrounding deck (travertine, pavers, concrete) is laid and grouted.
- Step 510%Before plaster
Final draw — paid right before the pool finish (Pebble Tec / plaster) goes in.
The ROC schedule exists to protect homeowners. If a builder asks for 40-50% upfront on a pool, ask why — the ROC's own consumer guidance recommends no more than 15% down on residential pool contracts. AE Outdoor Living follows the ROC schedule on every pool build.
Three draws.
Simple and clear.
Pavers, artificial turf, pergolas, outdoor kitchens, landscape lighting, fencing, dog runs, putting greens — anything that isn't a pool — follows a 50 / 35 / 15 schedule. Materials, schedule, and crew are locked in at signing; final draw clears on walkthrough.
- Step 150%Contract signing
Down payment locks in materials, schedule, and crew. Pavers, turf, structures, lighting components are ordered.
- Step 235%Project start
Due the day crews mobilize on-site and work begins.
- Step 315%Project completion
Final draw on walkthrough — paid when the project is finished, cleaned, and signed off.
Cash flow that matches progress.
The fastest way to spot a builder you shouldn't sign with is the payment schedule. Anyone asking for 40, 50, or 60% upfront on a pool is either undercapitalized — meaning they need your deposit to finish someone else's project — or unfamiliar with Arizona ROC guidance.
By staying on the ROC schedule, AE Outdoor Living finances each phase of your build with our own working capital. You only release the next draw when the previous phase is complete. If we don't deliver on a milestone, you don't pay for it.
On landscape projects we ask for more upfront because materials are ordered, custom-fabricated, and delivered before crews mobilize — but the final 15% is held until the project is walked, cleaned, and signed off by you.
Ready for a fixed-price quote?
Free in-home consultation, custom 3D design preview, fixed-price quote — usually within 24 hours. No surprise change orders.