The Buying Process
We break down the process involved with installing your own pool into easy steps.
At DIY Pools, we are committed to walking you through the process of installing your own swimming pool with comprehensive and easy-to-understand instructions, so you can feel safe and empowered in taking on your new DIY project.
1. Understanding your obligations
Once you’ve chosen your pool, it’s important to understand what permits you’re legally required to obtain and the approvals you need from your local council to install a swimming pool. Every pool requires a building permit! We can provide you with the engineering drawings and a Certificate of Compliance needed to lodge your permit, but you will need to obtain your permit as the Owner-Builder. In order to be able to freely build your pool, you’ll need to have your white card and submit a Owner-Builder Application via the VBA.
2. Setting up
Decide where you will be installing your pool, and check out the Dial Before You Dig (DBYD) website to ensure there will be no assets in the proposed installation area. This could include power lines, phone lines, sewerage, drainage and more. Some councils may also require you to obtain an Asset Protection Permit, so enquire with your local council to avoid possibly getting fined. This permit ensures permission to use council assets (footpaths, driveways) in order to gain access to your property for building purposes.
3. Pool safety and compliance
Fencing is a hugely important aspect of pool safety and regulation in Australia, so it’s important to read up on what your legal obligations are for fencing and spacing when installing a pool. It’s legally required that your pool is fenced both during construction and after, with at least a temporary barrier until your permanent safety barrier has been installed and inspected. You will need to obtain a certificate of final inspection provided to you by your Surveyor or Council. We recommend Victorian Temporary Fencing (9484 4000) or 1300Tempfence (1300 836 733) for your temporary barrier hire. If you choose to install your pool fence over an easement, you may require ‘Build over Easement’ approvals. Please discuss this with your Building Surveyor.
4. Become a subject matter expert
Ensure you, and any tradespeople you bring on board to assist with your DIY project, are familiar with the engineering and installation requirements of your new pool. We suggest only using tradespeople who have already accrued experience specifically in pool installations. We’re able to provide a list of recommendations, but it’s your responsibility to ensure that all works are carried out in accordance with the Australian Standards and the manufacturer’s regulations and installation requirements.
5. Final checks
As the builder behind the pool, it will be up to you to perform final inspections and sign off on the delivery and driver paperwork. When organising a DIY pool install through us, you will have the option to select the ‘Pre-Plumb’ option - if you have opted for this, you will be required to check all fittings prior to installation. With pre-plumbing or self-plumbing, we always recommend to have your pool pressure tested prior to backfilling. When it’s time to install, please ensure you follow all manufacturers’ installation and operation instructions for your pool equipment.
6. Maintenance
After your pool has been installed, remember to maintain correct chemical balance at all times. Balancing your water is essential to your pool shell and equipment warranty, so remember to contact Rainwise Pools Melbourne for any post-installation information you might need. There are a few golden rules to keep in mind – for instance, never empty your pool without consulting Rainwise Pools Melbourne first. Make sure you have a good understanding of the function of the Standpipe at the end of the pool, and how important it is to keep it free of water. Be conscious of drainage and any legal and installation requirements you may have down the track.
If you are unsure of any of the above points or if you wish to discuss any of the above, please contact us any time on 93549666.