What a good padel court builder does
Short answer: a good padel court builder has installed padel courts before (not just tennis or pickleball), works with one or more established court systems, takes responsibility for the slab or tells you exactly who does, includes freight and unloading in the price, gives clear lead times and stands behind a written warranty for the structure, glass, turf and lights.
Questions to ask
- How many padel courts have you installed, and where? Can I talk to past clients?
- Which court systems do you install, and are you authorized by the maker?
- What exactly does your price include: slab, freight, unloading, turf, sand, lights, gate, net, cleanup?
- What's the lead time from deposit to play?
- Who designs the slab, and who is responsible if it cracks?
- What warranty covers the frame, glass, turf and lights, and who honors it if there's a problem?
- What's the payment schedule?
- Do you offer maintenance or resurfacing later?
Comparing quotes
Put proposals side by side by line: court system and glass, slab, installation, freight, lighting, turf, extras and exclusions. The cheapest quote often leaves out the slab or electrical work. Ask each builder to price the same scope so you're comparing like with like.
Red flags
- No padel projects to show
- Very large deposits with vague delivery dates
- "Slab by others" with no specification
- No written warranty
- Pressure to sign before a site check
As always, check licensing and insurance requirements for your state with the relevant agency and ask builders for proof.
Questions
Should I buy the court directly from a manufacturer?
You can, but you'll need someone to prepare the slab, receive freight and install it. Many owners prefer one builder responsible for everything.
How many quotes should I get?
Two or three, all pricing the same scope, is usually enough to see a fair range.
Do padel court builders travel?
Many work across several states, especially for clubs. Local availability affects lead time and service later.