10 Things to Consider if Planning for a Pool

10th March 2025

Finance & Budgeting Pre-Construction Design & Trends During Construction Post-Construction Sustainability & Energy Efficiency

Thinking about adding a pool to your new home? In this article, we cover 10 key considerations, including location, easements, fencing, power supply, and installation timing. Don’t miss these crucial insights to avoid costly mistakes and plan the perfect pool!

10 Things to Consider if Planning for a Pool

Building a new home and thinking about adding a pool? Whether you're planning for one now or considering it in the future, integrating a pool into your home design requires careful planning. In this article, we outline the 10 key factors to consider when planning a pool, helping you avoid costly mistakes and ensuring a smooth process.

1. Location and Proximity to Your Home

• Ideally, pools should be at least two metres away from the house to avoid compromising your home’s foundation.
• Excavation close to the house can damage drainage systems and may require additional slab reinforcement.
• Some builders may require piering under the slab if the pool is too close.

2. Easements and Council Regulations

• You cannot build a pool directly over an easement.
• If your property has an easement, discuss options with your builder and pool installer.
• Pumps, filters, and pipes need to be placed outside the easement area.
• Check with your local council for specific regulations regarding pool placement.

3. Block Preparation and Site Conditions

• Soil type and ground conditions affect excavation costs.
• If your site has a sloped block, your builder may be able to cut the land appropriately to accommodate a pool.
• Rock or difficult-to-excavate soil can increase costs significantly.

4. Providing Detailed Pool Plans to Your Builder

• Work with your pool installer and builder to create detailed plans, including dimensions and depth.
• This helps builders plan for necessary slab reinforcements and prevents unexpected costs.
• Sewer pipes and underground utilities need to be planned around the pool location to avoid future issues.

5. Heating Considerations

• Solar heating is a popular choice, but you need adequate roof space if you already have solar panels.
• Electric heating can be an alternative, especially when paired with solar power.
• Plan for heating at the construction stage to integrate it cost-effectively.

6. Pool Pumps and Power Supply

• Larger pools may require three-phase power, which is best installed during home construction.
• Running power cables early avoids unnecessary excavation and costs later.
• A capped-off junction box installed by the builder allows for easy connection.

7. Installing the Pool Before the Home is Built

• Some builders allow pool installation before home construction, but strict conditions apply.
• The pool area must be securely fenced to meet safety requirements.
• In some cases, builders may require steel covers over the pool for added safety.

8. Fibreglass vs. Concrete Pools

• Fibreglass pools are popular due to faster installation and lower maintenance.
• These pools may need to be craned into place, requiring adequate access.
• Concrete pools are more flexible in design but may require hand excavation in tight spaces, increasing labour costs.

9. Pool Fencing and Permits

• All pools must have compliant fencing, and you need a permit before installation.
• The type and placement of the fence must meet pool safety regulations.
• If your boundary fence has horizontal rails, you may need additional fencing to prevent climbing from the outside.

10. Energy Ratings and Additional Considerations

• If a pool is included in your home design, it can impact your home’s energy rating.
• Some energy assessments may require you to install a larger solar power system to offset the pool’s energy consumption.
• Work with your builder to ensure compliance with energy efficiency standards.

Key Takeaways

• Plan ahead and discuss your pool plans with your builder before construction begins.
• Consider foundation reinforcement if placing the pool near your home.
• Ensure proper access for excavation and installation.
• Factor in pool heating, power supply, and fencing requirements.
• Check local council regulations regarding easements and permits.

For a more detailed discussion, listen to the full episode here: 10 Things to Consider if Planning for a Pool

Glossary of Terms

• Easement: A section of land reserved for utility access that cannot have permanent structures built over it.
• Piering: Additional foundation support added to a home’s slab when building near excavation work.
• Three-phase power: A high-capacity electrical system often required for heavy-duty appliances like pool heaters.
• Junction box: A capped-off electrical connection point for future wiring needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I build a pool close to my house?

Yes, but it requires structural considerations. Most builders recommend a minimum two-metre clearance to avoid foundation issues.

Do I need council approval for my pool?

Yes, you need a permit for both the pool installation and fencing to comply with safety regulations.

What is the best time to install a pool?

Ideally, plan for pool installation during home construction to save on excavation and infrastructure costs.

Should I choose a fibreglass or concrete pool?

• Fibreglass pools: Faster installation, less maintenance, limited shape options.
• Concrete pools: Customisable design, longer installation time, potentially higher costs.

About the Home Building Hub Podcast

The Home Building Hub podcast, hosted by industry experts Colin Bischof and Darren Brennan, is Australia’s premier resource for new home buyers. With weekly episodes featuring special guests, the podcast provides objective, high-quality insights into the home building process—completely free and without sales pitches. From understanding financing options to navigating the complexities of building a new home, each episode is packed with actionable advice and tips.

Explore more episodes at Home Building Hub and join our growing community of informed home buyers.

Disclaimer

Whilst we’re all about providing value to you, this article should not be considered as legal or financial advice. It contains general information only and is based on the content discussed during the podcast episode. This information is relevant to the episode’s release date and may not be applicable at the time of reading. Always seek independent professional advice tailored to your personal situation before making any legal or financial decisions.