Building a pool in Queensland: the steps from quote to first swim

Building a pool in Queensland follows the same steps whether it is concrete or fibreglass: choose a licensed pool builder, sign a written contract, get building approval, put up a warning sign, build a fence the certifier approves, then fill and register the pool. Here is each step in order, and what to check at each one.

1. Plan where the pool goes

Decide where the pool sits before you get quotes, because the pool safety rules affect the layout. QBCC suggests you think about:

the type of pool fence and where it runs
any changes to your neighbours’ fences
where the pump and filter go, so children can’t climb them to get over the fence
keeping doors and windows from opening straight into the pool area
trees, decks, balconies and stairs near the pool

Find out where the sewer and water pipes run under your yard too. A pool close to a pipe needs extra checks. See do you need approval to build a pool.

2. Get quotes from licensed pool builders

Ask several builders to look at the site and give a written quote. Check each one holds a QBCC Swimming Pool Construction, Installation and Maintenance contractor licence, and look at their licence history. Search pool builders on this site.

Make sure each quote says what it includes: the fence, paving, equipment, approval fees and the home warranty premium. See hiring a pool builder.

3. Sign a written contract

For a job over $3,300 you need a written contract, and the deposit is capped. For a job of $20,000 or more, the deposit can be no more than 5%. You then have 5 business days to cool off.

Check the contract covers progress payments, rock in the dig and wet weather delays.

4. Building approval and insurance

Your builder usually arranges building approval through a building certifier. The builder must also pay for home warranty insurance before work starts. Ask for proof of both. See home warranty insurance for pools for what it does and doesn’t cover.

A sign saying a pool is being built and children must keep out must go up within 1.5 m of the road before construction starts. See pool fence rules while your pool is built.

6. Dig, steel, bonding and shell

For a concrete pool, the electrician should come while the steel is exposed and before the concrete goes in. They connect and test the equipotential bonding, which stops the pool becoming live if there is an electrical fault. Only a licensed electrician can do this. For a fibreglass pool, ask the builder how bonding of metal parts near the pool will be handled.

If the dig hits rock, any extra cost is a variation that you must agree to in writing before the work is done. See variations.

7. Plumbing, power and equipment

A licensed plumber connects the backwash and any overflow to the right drains. A licensed electrician wires the pump, filter, heater and lights. Check the electrician with the Electrical Safety Office, and ask for a certificate of test when they finish.

8. Fence, then certificate, then water

The pool can’t hold 300 mm or more of water until a compliant fence is up and the certifier has inspected it. A temporary fence can be approved for up to 3 months. Once the permanent fence passes, the certifier issues a Form 17 final inspection certificate.

9. Handover and registration

Your builder must show you how to keep the water clean and run the filter and chlorinator. The certifier sends the pool’s details to QBCC for the pool register. Check your pool is listed, because unregistered pools can attract a fine.

Hold the final payment until the certificate is issued and everything works.

10. Keep it safe

From now on, the owner must keep the fence and gate in good condition. Keep the gate shut and climbable things away from the fence. If you later sell or lease, you need a pool safety certificate. See pool safety in Queensland.

If something goes wrong

A leak through the shell is a structural defect, and home warranty insurance has strict time limits. Write to the builder first, then complain to QBCC. See leaking or cracked new pool.