PRE-BUILD CHECKLIST

Plan Your Pool Project with

Confidence

Your Backyard Pool Checklist

Before starting a pool project, use this checklist to ensure your property, budget, and expectations are aligned. Proper preparation helps avoid delays, unexpected costs, and design issues later in the process.

Enter your information here and we'll email you our pool owners PDF manual.

  1. Budget & Project Scope

Before contacting a contractor, understand the true cost of building and owning a pool.

Typical Cost Ranges

  • Professional installation: $60,000 – $125,000

  • Estimated build cost: $175 – $300 per sq. ft

  • Annual maintenance: $1,000 – $2,500

2. Permits & Regulations

Pool construction must follow municipal and safety regulations.

Common setback guideline:

Pools often must be installed at least 5 feet from structures or property lines, depending on local regulations.

3. Property & Site Conditions

Every backyard is different. Site conditions can significantly affect installation.

Important considerations

  • High water tables may require specialized excavation or sump pumps

  • Equipment must have clear access to the site

  • Trees nearby may increase debris in the pool

  1. Pool Type & Materials

Choose the right pool type for your property and long-term needs.

Material Considerations

  • Vinyl liner pools require liner replacement approximately every 7–10 years

  • Fiberglass pools are lower maintenance but come in fixed shapes

  • Concrete pools offer full customization but require more upkeep

  1. Long-Term Ownership

Owning a pool includes regular maintenance and seasonal preparation.

Typical annual tasks

  • Water balancing and chemical treatment

  • Pump and filtration maintenance

  • Equipment inspection and repairs

  1. Project Timeline

Pool projects require planning well in advance.

Typical annual tasks

  • Water balancing and chemical treatment

  • Pump and filtration maintenance

  • Coordinate landscaping or outdoor living plans