pool demolition

Have you got an unwanted or unused swimming pool? You aren’t alone. Many Wollongong homeowners are choosing to remove their pools.
If you are considering swimming pool removal Wollongong, you need to read this article!

We walk through the reasons for removal, the various methods, and the process, so you will know what is happening at each step.

Why Remove Your Swimming Pool?

Wollongong swimming pool removal is more common than many people realise, and the reasons are often straightforward.

The Cost

  • Annual maintenance costs, including chemicals, water, electricity, servicing the pump and the cost of repairs for ageing or structurally compromised pools
  • Insurance implications of an unused pool
  • The need to maintain fencing and gates to comply with NSW pool safety laws, including the Swimming Pools Act 1992​

Safety, Property and Lifestyle Considerations

  • The drowning risk, especially for young children, elderly relatives and pets
  • You want to reclaim valuable outdoor living space for entertaining areas, gardens, lawns or even a new building, like a granny flat
  • Make the property appeal to a broader buyer market
  • A pool isn’t always a selling point, so consider the impact on property value
  • Lifestyle changes: ageing homeowners, downsizing, or a change in priorities

Types of Pools and How They Are Removed

The removal method depends largely on the type of pool and its construction. The two most common residential pool types in Wollongong are concrete (sometimes called gunite or shotcrete) and fibreglass.

Concrete Pool Removal

  • Concrete pools are more labour-intensive to remove
  • Specialist equipment, such as excavators, hydraulic breakers and concrete saws,​ can help speed up the process
  • The reinforcing steel (rebar) is cut and removed
  • Concrete debris is assessed for recycling. It can often be crushed and used as ‘fill’ material
  • Site conditions, like access issues, plus the size and depth of the pool, can make removal more difficult
  • Proper backfilling and compaction are critical after concrete removal​, especially to ensure the large space doesn’t subside in the future

Fibreglass Pool Removal

  • Fibreglass pools are normally simpler and faster pool removal projects than concrete pools
  • The fibreglass shell is cut into sections and lifted out​
  • There are often restrictions on the disposal of fibreglass material, so it must be taken to a licensed waste disposal site
  • Again, the site is left level, compacted and ready for whatever you have planned next

The Pool Removal Process: Step by Step

Whether concrete or fibreglass, a professional Wollongong pool removal team follows a clear, structured process.

Site Assessment and Permits

  • A site inspection is always needed. The pool type, condition and size all help to determine the approach for your property
  • Any site access problems, for excavators and trucks, are noted
  • Underground utilities (pipes, cables, drainage) are identified, mapped and marked
  • A licenced, local demolition contractor will guide you through the approvals process
    • Generally, you need to obtain approval before work can begin. Either a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or a Development Application (DA) in NSW
    • Make sure to check whether Wollongong City Council have any relevant requirements

Draining the Pool

  • The pool must be fully drained before any structural work begins
  • You must comply with any NSW environmental guidelines when draining the pool to avoid the risk of local contamination
  • Again, your Wollongong swimming pool removal contractor will know where pool water can legally be discharged

Disconnecting Services

  • Before beginning pool removal, you must ensure all electrical, plumbing, and gas connections​ are disconnected
  • Remove pool equipment, like the pool pump and filtration system
  • Only properly licensed tradespeople should carry out electrical and plumbing disconnection
  • The utility lines should also be capped and sealed

Demolition and Debris Removal

  • Concrete is broken down, and fibreglass is cut into removable sections​
  • Heavy equipment is typically used on residential sites, including mini excavators or jackhammers
  • All debris is loaded and transported to licensed disposal or recycling facilities
  • Your removalists will deal with any hazardous materials (e.g., old pool paint, asbestos in older structures) safely and in adherence with relevant regulations

Backfilling, Compaction, and Site Restoration

  • Layers of clean fill material are used to fill the void​
  • Compaction of the fill, at regular intervals, prevents future subsidence​
  • The site is left levelled and graded

Get a Quote for Swimming Pool Removal Wollongong

Wollongong City Demolition offers full pool removal services throughout Wollongong, Shellharbour, Unanderra, Albion Park, and the general Illawarra district. See our full pool removal information.

We are licenced, experienced and local. We have a reputation for safe, efficient work, all of which is compliant with NSW regulations. Contact us today with any questions and to arrange a site visit.