Hey, have you ever looked at that old concrete pool in your backyard and thought, “What on earth am I gonna do with this thing?” Maybe it’s just taking up space, or maybe it’s become more of a hassle than a splash-worthy oasis. Either way, getting rid of it isn’t as simple as just draining the water and calling it a day.
If you’re thinking about removing your pool, you probably want to know: How much is concrete pool removal going to cost? What’s involved? And what’s the difference between just partially demolishing it or ripping it out completely?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Let’s break down what you need to know about concrete pool removal in Sydney, how prices can change, and some tips to keep your wallet happy while making room for your next backyard project.
What’s the Average Cost to Remove a Concrete Pool in Sydney?
Concrete inground pool removal costs vary widely depending on size, location, and the extent of pool demolition required. On average, Sydney homeowners can expect to pay between $3,500 and $15,000 or more.
| Type of Removal |
Typical Price Range in Sydney |
| Partial Removal |
$3,500 – $5,000 |
| Full Removal |
$5,000 – $15,000+ |
Why such a range?
The complexity of breaking up reinforced concrete, hauling heavy debris, council requirements, and restoring your backyard all contribute to costs. A larger pool with difficult access can easily push your budget toward the higher end. To understand where your project may fall in that range, check out our swimming pool removal cost in Sydney breakdown.
What Impacts the Cost of Concrete Pool Removal?
Understanding what affects the price helps you control your budget and avoid unexpected fees. Here are the biggest cost drivers:
1. Pool Size, Shape, and Depth
Larger pools require more demolition work, longer machine time, and greater debris removal. Deep pools add complexity because the base is reinforced and requires careful breaking to avoid damaging surrounding structures.
2. Site Access and Location
Tight or narrow access means machinery must be smaller or work more slowly, increasing labour costs. Poor access is a common cost driver for in-ground pool removal services in built-up Sydney suburbs.
3. Demolition Type: Partial vs Full Removal
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Partial removal involves breaking holes in the bottom for drainage, collapsing the walls, and burying the debris. It’s a cost-effective way to fill or demolish the pool, but it limits future building on the site.
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Full removal means hauling all concrete and rebar off-site and preparing the ground for future building. It’s more expensive to remove the pool fully, but it offers more options later.
Ready to remove your old pool? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote and expert advice on partial or full pool demolition tailored to your backyard needs.
4. Reinforced Concrete and Steel Rebar
Concrete pools are reinforced with steel bars (rebar), making them extremely tough to break apart. Removing and disposing of this material safely takes extra effort and specialised machinery.
5. Disposal and Tipping Fees
Sydney waste disposal sites charge by weight and material type. Concrete is heavy, and dumping fees add up quickly. Some contractors offer discounts for pool filling using recycled materials.
6. Backfilling and Soil Compaction
Once the pool is removed, the hole must be filled with clean soil or compactable fill. This is crucial for structural integrity, especially if you plan to build or landscape later. Improper compaction could lead to expensive repairs.
Learn more about the imaginable soil removal costs if you’re removing large quantities of dirt or rubble during the process.
7. Council Permits and Regulations
Most Sydney councils require permits for pool removal, especially full removals. Compliance with engineering and safety standards may involve additional inspections or paperwork, adding to costs.
How Is Concrete Pool Removal Done?
If you’re curious about the process, here’s what a typical inground pool removal looks like:
- Draining the pool: First, the pool water is completely drained, often requiring council notification or approval.
- Breaking Up the Concrete: Contractors use jackhammers, concrete saws, or excavators fitted with breakers to crack the pool floor and walls into manageable pieces.
- Rebar Removal: The steel reinforcement bars are cut out and separated for recycling or disposal.
- Debris Removal: All broken concrete and steel are loaded onto trucks and taken to approved waste facilities.
- Backfilling: The hole is filled with clean soil or engineered fill material.
- Compaction: The fill material is compacted to prevent future sinking or ground movement.
- Site Restoration: Finally, your yard is restored with landscaping, turfing, or paving to match your plans.
Because concrete pools are heavy and reinforced, this process requires licensed demolition contractors with insurance and experience. For a more detailed explanation, check out our step-by-step pool removal guide.
What Happens to Pool Equipment Like Pumps and Filters?
Before demolition starts, all pool equipment such as pumps, filters, heaters, and plumbing components are removed. You can choose to sell this equipment if it’s still in good condition, repurpose it for other uses, or dispose of it separately.
Ready to transform your backyard? Contact our pool removal specialists today to get expert advice, accurate pricing, and a plan that fits your timeline and goals.
Partial vs Full Concrete Pool Removal: What’s the Best Option?
Many homeowners wonder: Is it better to partially fill or fully remove a pool? Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:
| Aspect |
Partial Removal |
Full Removal |
| Cost |
Lower ($3,500 – $5,000) |
Higher ($5,000 – $15,000+) |
| Time Required |
Faster |
Slower due to more debris removal |
| Future Land Use |
Limited (no new structures) |
Built-ready for extensions or a new pool |
| Council Approval |
Sometimes not required |
Often required with inspections |
| Long-Term Value |
Lower resale value |
Higher property value potential |
Partial removal involves breaking holes in the pool floor for drainage, collapsing the walls inward, and burying the debris onsite. It’s quicker and more affordable, but it restricts how you can use the space later.
Full removal, on the other hand, means hauling away all the concrete and steel, then properly preparing the site for future building or landscaping. While pricier and more time-consuming, full removal adds more value to your property and gives you more options.
Not sure which is right for your home? Our team can walk you through the options and help you make an informed decision based on your goals.
Can You Reuse the Concrete from Your Pool?
Some contractors recycle the broken concrete as base material for backfill or other construction projects. This can reduce disposal costs and is better for the environment. However, reusing concrete depends on the pool’s condition and your contractor’s capabilities.
How to Reduce Your Concrete Pool Removal Costs?
While pool removal is a significant expense, these tips can help manage your budget:
- Get multiple quotes from licensed pool removal specialists, not just general demolition contractors.
- Ensure good site access by clearing fences or gates ahead of time to allow machinery to work efficiently.
- Combine services like demolition and landscaping with the same contractor for better pricing.
- Ask about concrete recycling options, some companies pass savings onto clients if they can reuse the debris.
Conclusion: Is Concrete Pool Removal Worth It?
At the end of the day, removing a concrete pool is a significant investment, but for many Sydney homeowners, it’s worth it. The benefits of reclaiming space, eliminating costly maintenance, and preparing your property for future improvements often outweigh the cost.
Whether you opt for partial or full removal, working with experienced, licensed contractors will ensure the job is done safely and efficiently. Plus, you’ll avoid surprises by knowing the full cost to remove a pool and the timeline upfront.
Ready to take the plunge? Reach out to local Sydney pool removal specialists to get detailed free quotes and expert advice tailored to your backyard and budget. Your new outdoor space awaits!
