Deciding to install a pool is exciting, but if you’ve never been through the process before, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. What actually happens? How long does it take? What do you need to do?
We’ve installed over 2,000 pools across Melbourne’s West and Regional Victoria, and we know that understanding the process upfront makes everything smoother. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect when you decide to build a fibreglass pool with us.
Step 1: Initial Enquiry and Site Assessment
Everything starts with a conversation. You might call us, fill out a form on our website or send us an email. We’ll have a chat about what you’re looking for, your backyard, your budget and your timeline.
From there, we’ll arrange a free site assessment. This is where one of our team, often our owner Troy, will visit your property to look at the space, assess access, check for any potential challenges and talk through your options in person.
During the site visit, we’ll consider things like: – The size and shape of your backyard – Access for machinery and crane delivery – Soil conditions and slope – Distance from the house and any structures – Council requirements for your area – Your lifestyle and how you plan to use the pool
This visit is obligation-free and gives us the information we need to put together an accurate quote.
Step 2: Design Selection and Quote
After the site assessment, we’ll work with you to select the right pool for your space. We’re authorised Leisure Pools dealers, which means we have access to a wide range of award-winning designs, from compact plunge pools to large family pools with built-in features.
We’ll help you choose: – The pool model and size that fits your backyard – The colour that complements your outdoor area – Any additional features like heating, lighting or mineral systems – Coping, paving and landscaping options
Once we’ve finalised the design, we’ll provide you with a detailed, itemised quote. This includes everything: the pool, excavation, installation, plumbing, electrical, equipment, council fees and any site-specific costs. We don’t do hidden extras or surprise invoices. What we quote is what you pay.
Step 3: Council Permits and Approvals
In Victoria, most pools require a building permit before construction can begin. You’ll also need to comply with pool safety barrier regulations, which means approved fencing around the pool area.
The good news is we handle all of this for you. We prepare the permit application, submit it to your local council and manage the approval process. This typically takes two to four weeks, depending on the council and the complexity of your project.
While we’re waiting for permits, we’ll finalise the schedule and make sure everything is ready to go as soon as approval comes through.
Step 4: Site Preparation and Excavation
Once permits are approved, the physical work begins.
First, we’ll mark out the pool position on your property and set up any necessary access for machinery. If there are trees, garden beds or structures in the way, we’ll discuss what needs to be moved or removed.
Then comes excavation. Using specialised equipment, we dig out the hole for your pool to the exact specifications required. The excavation process usually takes one to two days, depending on soil conditions and access.
We’ll also dig trenches for plumbing and electrical connections during this stage.
Step 5: Pool Delivery and Installation
This is the exciting part.
Your fibreglass pool shell is manufactured off-site and delivered to your property on a truck. Using a crane, we carefully lift the pool over your house or fence and lower it into the prepared excavation. It’s quite a sight, and many of our clients like to be home to watch it happen.
The crane-in itself usually takes just a few hours. Once the pool is in position, we check the levels, make adjustments and begin the backfilling process.
Step 6: Plumbing and Electrical
With the pool in place, our team connects all the plumbing and electrical systems.
This includes: – Pool pump and filter – Sanitisation system (chlorine, saltwater or mineral) – Heating system if you’ve chosen one – Pool lighting – Any water features or spa jets
A licensed electrician will connect the electrical components and ensure everything meets safety standards. A licensed plumber handles the water connections.
Step 7: Backfill and Coping
The space around the pool shell is backfilled with a sand and cement mix or crushed rock, compacted in layers to provide stable support. This is done carefully to prevent any movement or settling over time.
Once backfilling is complete, the coping is installed around the top edge of the pool. Coping is the cap or edging that covers the pool shell and provides a finished look. You can choose from a range of materials and colours to match your landscaping.
Step 8: Fencing and Safety Compliance
Pool fencing is a legal requirement in Victoria. The barrier must meet specific height, gap and gate requirements to prevent unsupervised access by young children.
We can coordinate the installation of compliant pool fencing, or you can arrange this yourself with a licensed fencer. Either way, the pool cannot be filled and used until the fencing is inspected and certified.
Step 9: Paving and Landscaping
While not always included in the pool installation itself, most families choose to add paving, decking or landscaping around the pool to complete the outdoor space.
We can recommend trusted landscapers and pavers, or coordinate this work as part of a larger project. The right surroundings can make a huge difference to how your pool area looks and feels.
Step 10: Fill, Balance and Handover
The final step is filling your pool with water, balancing the chemistry and commissioning all the equipment.
We’ll run you through how to operate your pump, filter, heating and sanitisation systems. We’ll explain the basics of pool maintenance and water testing, and answer any questions you have.
Then it’s time for your first swim.
How Long Does It All Take?
From signing the contract to swimming, most fibreglass pool installations take between six and ten weeks. The breakdown is roughly:
- Permits: 2-4 weeks
- Excavation to handover: 2-4 weeks
The actual on-site construction is surprisingly quick. It’s the permit process that often takes the longest, which is why we recommend getting started sooner rather than later if you want to be swimming by a particular date.
What Do You Need to Do?
Our job is to make this as easy as possible for you. But there are a few things that help the process run smoothly:
- Clear access to your backyard for machinery
- Decide on fencing early so it can be coordinated with the installation
- Let your neighbours know there will be some construction activity
- Be available for key decisions and sign-offs along the way
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re thinking about a pool for your backyard, the best first step is a conversation. Get in touch for a free site assessment and we’ll walk you through exactly what’s involved for your property.
We’ve helped thousands of families through this process, and we’re here to make it as straightforward and enjoyable as possible.
