By Scott Cohen, Past Chairman, California Pool and Spa Association (CPSA) California is leading a new wave of restrictions on natural gas appliances—and the outdoor living industry is directly in the crosshairs. A recent federal court ruling upholding SCAQMD’s Rule 1146.2 could pave the way for future bans on gas
In California, a General Building Contractor (B license) may build a swimming pool only if they hold a C-53 Swimming Pool license or subcontract the work to a licensed C-53 contractor. Otherwise, it’s considered unlicensed activity. The question comes up regularly in my expert witness work and in conversations with
Elder Abuse Alert! Why California Contractors Must Know About the 5-Day Right to Cancel for Seniors If you’re a contractor in California, you have probably used the three-day notice to cancel in your contracts for decades, but many contractors are not aware of the five‑day right to cancel requirement for
By Scott Cohen, Chairman of the California Pool and Spa Association (CPSA). Originally published on WaterShapes.com When it comes to concrete curing, cutting corners today often leads to serious problems tomorrow. Observing proper curing practices is a hallmark of professional craftsmanship—and a commitment to delivering a quality product that homeowners can
When it comes to building swimming pools, few details are as overlooked — yet as critical — as how the underground plumbing is protected. As an expert witness specializing in construction defects, I’ve seen my share of expensive failures that trace back to one simple oversight: improper bedding, shading, or
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) has named Scott Cohen, President of The Green Scene Landscaping & Pools, as its 2024 Volunteer of the Year. This prestigious award highlights Cohen’s exceptional contributions to advancing professionalism in the aquatic industry through his extensive volunteer work with the organization. Cohen currently
Originally published by The Green Scene, July 23, 2024 My Favorite Cast Member: Cast in Place Concrete The Green Scene is a high-end design-build Landscaping and Swimming Pool firm in sunny California, specializing in developing custom designs for our clients. For decades, we have worked with cast concrete, guided by
By Scott Cohen, Chairman of the California Pool and Spa Association (CPSA). Originally published on WaterShapes.com California is a state renowned for its vibrant outdoor lifestyle, where residents take full advantage of their backyards for recreation and relaxation. The essence of this lifestyle is deeply intertwined with elements like swimming
An argument for placing step-trim tile on every pool and spa By Scott Cohen. Originally Publised in Pool and Spa News, July 2024. I have served as an expert witness consultant for more than 16 years now. An interesting side benefit to this work: It really opens my eyes to
This case involved an all glass tile pool in sunny Florida. The tile originally selected by the homeowner was originally an all glass mosaic 1×1 tile. The installer used the wrong thin set and the translucent tiles began to show a “graying” behind the tiles. The entire installation was removed.
