How a Bottle of Acid Ruined a $30,000 Driveway

One of the most expensive property claims I’ve ever seen came from something as small as a bottle of acid. A tech set it down on a decorative driveway, and in seconds it left a permanent stain. The homeowner wanted it replaced—$30,000 gone just like that.

I tell every pool pro the same thing: don’t park in driveways if you can avoid it. I always had my team park on the street, even if it meant carrying equipment farther. The risk of oil stains, acid drips, or scratches from poles wasn’t worth it.

When you’re handling chemicals, use secondary containment. Keep acids upright in a sealed bin, and never carry them one-handed while checking your phone. If you’re moving acid, it should be the very last thing you do before heading back to the truck.

Now, here’s the reality: sometimes, no matter how careful you are, accidents happen. That’s where insurance comes in. If you’ve got the right liability policy, property damage like this is usually covered. On higher-level programs like our Platinum plan, we even build in faulty workmanship coverage—because sometimes it’s not just an accident, it’s an honest mistake made by an employee.

But here’s the lesson: every claim you file shows up on your record. That one acid spill might be covered, but it will impact your premiums for years. Preventing the claim in the first place is always cheaper than paying it out.

Want more real stories like this? Check out the full podcast episode above!