Many homeowners with a swimming pool are faced with a dilemma when the pools start aging and require repairs or even replacement. Zoning codes in different local jurisdictions vary, but typically homeowners are given just two choices if they decide to remove a swimming pool. Read on to learn more about how to get rid of a swimming pool and how much it costs to remove a pool.
Partial demolition or removal –
For a small to medium-sized pool, the cost of a partial demolition or removal of a pool that is small to medium in size could be $3,000 to $6,000, including 8” to 10” of topsoil. But this inground swimming pool removal cost would only be the case if there were easy access for the type of heavy equipment required for the task.
However, the swimming pool removal costs can increase to $6,000 to $15,000 for larger pools or in areas with difficult access, large decks, other structures, or more plumbing to deal with.
Full demolition and removal –
Absolutely everything is demolished and pulled out before the area is filled in. If the property owner were planning on building a structure on or near the site where the pool was, fully removing a swimming pool would be mandatory.
The cost to remove an inground pool that is small or standard with easy access can be as low as $6,000 but go as high as $25,000. The average removing swimming pool cost ranges from $10,000 to $15,000.
In many cases, the property owner will do as much of the work as possible, but the required permits must be obtained and all local codes must be followed.
Whether it’s a partial removal or a full removal there is quite a bit of work involved. When hiring a contractor to handle the job you should be informed of all the details ahead of time when you get a quote on the work to be done:
These should be included in a partial demolition and removal:
- Multiple holes would be punched in the bottom and sides of the pool for drainage.
- Removal of tops of the walls on the sides of the pool to a depth of about 18 inches to 2 feet.
- The remaining pool is filled with fill dirt or gravel, with chunks of concrete possibly being used at the bottom.
- The material used to fill the pool is compacted to minimize settling and this is done layer by layer.
- When the pool is entirely filled it is covered with topsoil.
When a pool is partially removed the property owner must let any future buyers know about the former pool site and its exact location.
Whether you are having a partial or full removal done, the contractor is obligated to inform you ahead of time exactly what type and size of equipment he will be using and how they will gain access with this equipment. You must know exactly where any septic tanks are, sewer connections, drain fields, and any other underground plumbing services so that the heavy equipment avoids damaging anything.
Consult first with your local planning department regarding code requirements for pool demolition and any permits for construction or demolition that may be needed, along with inspections as the work progresses.
As with any demolition or construction project there can be additional costs. In this case the permits required to demolish a pool may be mandatory but cost nothing, but they might cost several hundred dollars or even more, depending on local requirements. If the heavy equipment needed to get the job done damages your driveway, other surfaces or landscaping you will incur those repair and replacement costs.
Repair Don’t Replace The Sani-Tred Alternative
Most people don’t realize that even the most damaged aging pools can be repaired and waterproofed with the Sani-Tred system. We have helped thousands of do-it-yourselfers transform old eyesores pools into a background oasis in a weekend.
Don’t backfill or demolish your pool restoration is way cheaper than demolition. SANI-TRED is the permanent waterproofing and repair product for almost any size or type of pool.
I need to have my pool removed. I was going to do it myself, but I don’t think I have the necessary tools or knowledge. It’s good to know that you can hire professionals to do it! Thankfully I have a small pool, so it shouldn’t cost too much.