Swimming Pool Installation Cost

How Much Does it Cost to Build a Swimming Pool?

An above-ground pool in the UK is often the more affordable option, with professionally installed semi-permanent or permanent pools costing around £5,000 to £10,000.

Whereas in-ground swimming pools can range anywhere from £30,000 to £100,000+ depending on the size, materials and design. The upper end of the scale reflects more luxurious or custom-built installations.

However, whichever option you choose, the cost of installing a garden swimming pool is generally quite reasonable by comparison to that of an indoor pool.

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Swimming Pool Installation Prices

So, how much does outdoor swimming pool installation cost?

To give you some idea, the typical cost for an outdoor swimming pool in the UK is around £30,000 to £100,000+.

But when it comes to having a garden swimming pool installed, how much this is going to cost will come down to the type of pool, size, materials, and finish.

We've broken down the typical price ranges for different pool projects, so you know what to expect.

What Size Swimming Pool Do I Need?

When installers refer to small, medium, and large pools, the dimensions can vary. To help you get a clearer picture, here are the typical sizes that fall into each category — along with a rough guide to cost.

A 10m swimming pool is one of the most searched-for sizes in the UK. A 10m x 5m outdoor in-ground pool with a fibreglass shell typically costs between £55,000 and £80,000 fully installed, while a concrete version with mosaic tiling could reach £80,000 to £100,000 depending on finish and ground conditions.

Budget / Entry-Level Swimming Pool Costs

Entry-level options for those looking for cheap swimming pool installations will typically involve above-ground pools or smaller in-ground liner pools.

The simpler installation process makes these a good choice for those looking for a garden swimming pool on a budget, with typical costs outlined in the table below.

Mid-Range Swimming Pool Installation Costs

Mid-range pool options are a typical choice for many UK homeowners, as they offer the perfect balance between quality, design flexibility, and cost.

These will typically be in-ground installations using fibreglass or concrete materials, and the table below shows the average pool installation costs for these popular options.

Bespoke / Premium Swimming Pool Prices

For those looking for the ultimate in custom design and premium finish, larger, high-end, bespoke swimming pools are the perfect choice.

With higher spec materials, customisation, and larger installation projects, these luxury swimming pools naturally come with higher costs, as you can see in the table below.

How Much Does an Indoor Swimming Pool Cost?

Indoor pools cost considerably more than outdoor ones, largely due to the additional building work required. As well as the pool itself, you'll need to factor in room construction or conversion, specialist ventilation, and dehumidification systems to manage moisture.

The average cost to build an indoor swimming pool in the UK is around £152,500, though prices can range from £85,000 to well over £220,000 for larger or more bespoke designs.

The extra costs for an indoor pool typically include a structural survey and planning approval, specialist pool room construction (averaging around £105,000 per square metre of room), air handling and dehumidification systems (£5,000 to £15,000), and enhanced electrical and plumbing work. Running costs are also higher, as heating an enclosed pool requires more energy year-round.

If you're considering an indoor pool, it's worth getting multiple quotes from contractors with specific indoor pool experience, as the work involved is significantly more complex than a standard garden installation.

Swimming Pool Installation Cost Calculator

Labour Cost of Building a Swimming Pool & Timescales

The average day rate for a pool installer in the UK is around £150 to £300, though most contractors will quote a fixed project price. You'll typically need a team of 2 to 4 specialists, and London and South East rates are usually around 20% higher than the national average.

Key things to know about pool installation labour:

• Above-ground pool installations usually take 1 to 2 weeks.
• Below-ground pools typically take 4 to 5 weeks, though larger or more complex projects can take longer.
• Obstacles such as trees, poor access, or difficult ground conditions can extend timescales and increase costs.
• Labour costs below cover the installation team only — materials, pool kits, and additional features are charged separately.

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Supply Cost to Build a Swimming Pool

If you are planning to install a DIY swimming pool, you will most likely need a swimming pool kit, which will include the basic pool structure, liner, and filtration setup.

What type of garden swimming pool are you having installed?

Above ground

2 votes - 25%25% of votes

Vinyl liner

2 votes - 25%25% of votes

Fibreglass

1 votes - 13%13% of votes

Concrete or tiled

3 votes - 38%38% of votes

8 votes See results Hide results

Pool kit prices are noticeably cheaper, but this is because the cost of installation, groundworks, and additional features are not included, which make up a big part of a fully-installed pool project.

Below is a list of the costs of a DIY swimming pool kit:

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Factors That Impact Swimming Pool Installation Costs

Several things can affect the overall cost of installing a garden swimming pool. Below is a list of the main cost-affecting factors for you to consider:

• What type of pool is it? There are several different types of garden swimming pools for you to choose from, and the type of pool that you choose can affect the cost of the job. For example, a small above-ground pool will cost considerably less than a fully tiled below-ground pool.
• What size is the pool? The size of the pool will also have a large effect on the overall cost. The larger the pool, the more materials you will need to complete the work. You also need to consider the additional labour hours that will be required for a larger pool. The extra days and weeks that it takes to install a larger pool can really add up when it comes to labour costs.
• Where is your property located? The location of your property can affect the overall cost of the job. Those based in and around the London area can expect to pay considerably more for the labour parts of the job than those based in the North or other parts of the UK.
• Do you need any additional groundwork? If the ground conditions are rocky, clay-based, or has poor natural drainage excavation costs can increase as soil conditions may require additional work.
• Is garden clearance included? Waste removal from the pool installation should be included within the quote, however it's likely you could have other garden rubbish that needs clearing at the same time.
• Are you having any additional heating? Due to the climate in the UK, most homeowners opt for extra heating such as gas, electric, or solar-powered systems. Along with installation, ongoing heating costs need to be taken into consideration.

Building Regulations & Planning Permission for Swimming Pool Installations

Planning Permission

In most cases, outdoor swimming pools don’t require planning permission, as they’re usually classed as permitted development. However, this may not apply if your property is in a conservation area, is a listed building, or is affected by restrictive covenants.

Building Regulations

Even if planning permission isn’t needed, your pool must still meet building regulations. These cover things like insulation, energy efficiency, and safe fuel use, especially for heated pools. There are also rules for electrical work, drainage, and plumbing. A professional installer should be familiar with these requirements and ensure everything is fully compliant. Always confirm this before the work begins.

Additional Swimming Pool Installation Costs

While some installers include groundworks and utility connections in their overall quote, many price these separately. It's worth clarifying exactly what's covered before signing any contract. Below are the additional costs most commonly charged on top of the base pool price.

Design and Planning Fees

For more complex or bespoke installations, you may need to budget for architectural or design fees, along with any planning application costs. Design consultations typically cost £500 to £2,000, while a full planning application (if required) can add a further £200 to £500.

Pool Cover

A pool cover is a worthwhile investment for any outdoor pool, helping to retain heat, reduce evaporation, and keep debris out. Manual covers start from around £500 to £1,500, while automatic or motorised systems (which sit flush with the pool surround) can cost £5,000 to £15,000. Solar covers are an affordable middle ground at £200 to £600 and can meaningfully reduce heating costs.

Groundworks / Excavation

Excavation and groundworks aren't always included in an all-in-one installation quote, so it's important to confirm this upfront. Digging out the area, removing soil, and preparing the base can cost £5,000 to £15,000, depending on ground conditions, access, and the size of the pool.

Plumbing and Water Supply

Connecting your pool to the mains water supply isn't always included in the base installation quote, so it's worth clarifying this upfront. Whether you need a water supply pipe replacement or a plumber to redirect water to your new pool, a plumber typically charges £25 to £60 per hour (more in London and the South East). If your pool holds over 10,000 litres, you'll also need to contact your water company separately.

Electrical Installation

As well as the plumbing for your new swimming pool, you will most likely need a variety of electrical systems installed to power the pumps, filtration system, and any lighting. To ensure a safe and compliant installation you'll need to hire a qualified electrician, which could cost £800 to £3,000.

Structural Engineer Cost

Another build cost is that of a structural engineer, a crucial part of the design process to ensure there is structural integrity whether filled or empty. The average cost of between £300 and £500 per day can vary, depending on the extent of the project and if they're needed to attend for more than one visit, as well as your location.

Landscaping

If you're spending money on a nice new swimming pool, you probably want to improve the area around your new pool, as well. Finishing the surrounding area with decking, a patio, fencing, and additional landscaping could add between £2,000 and £10,000+ to the cost.

Heating

To make use of your pool all year round it will need to be heated, and pool heating is typically priced as an optional upgrade. Heating systems vary and include electric, gas, and solar options, but expect to budget from £2,000 to £10,000 for winter swimming.

Swimming Pool Maintenance Costs

Whether it's clearing out fallen leaves, preventing a build-up of bacteria and algae, or replacing the water, maintenance costs are an important part of looking after your swimming pool.

Purchasing the chemicals required to keep the water clean, along with testing kits can amount to around £650 a year. As for monthly costs, cleaning the filters and general maintenance costs around £80 to £250 a month.

Types of Swimming Pools

There are several different types of swimming pools for you to choose from. Below is a list of the different types of swimming pools and the pros and cons of each type:

Above Ground Swimming Pool

An above-ground swimming pool is very simple and easy to install. It usually features a steel frame covered with a waterproof membrane to hold the water in.

These pools are quite cheap, but they are often unsightly and not very big. They're more suitable for a quick dip in the summer rather than for actual swimming.

Pros

• ✔ Quick and easy to install
• ✔ It can be packed away when not in use
• ✔ Cheap

Cons

• ✖ Considered not as aesthetically pleasing
• ✖ Only available in limited sizes
• ✖ Not ideal for swimming full lengths

Resin and Fibreglass Swimming Pools

These pools are easy to install as they are pre-moulded to the correct shape, and you simply drop the pool into the excavated hole and then work around it.

These pools are completely watertight and slightly flexible, so resistant to cracking. However, they are only made to standard sizes, which causes limitations if you're looking for something specific or more bespoke.

Pros

• ✔ Easy to install
• ✔ Fast installation time
• ✔ Completely watertight
• ✔ Resistant to cracking

Cons

• ✖ Only standard sizes are available

Overflow Swimming Pool

This type of pool features an overflow channel all around it, so the water level is the same height as the pool's edge, and the overflowed water flows freely into the outlet and through the filtration system.

These pools are a high-end option and typically cost more and take longer to install.

Pros

• ✔ Popular pool choice
• ✔ Relatively fast installation times
• ✔ Not too expensive

Cons

• ✖ Not as aesthetically pleasing as some other pool types

Poured or Sprayed Concrete Pool

This type of pool involves pouring or spraying concrete to form the base and then layering the base with tiles. It is possible to form curved pools with this method, but they tend to be very expensive, so most are restricted to flat walls.

An advantage of these pools is that they aren't limited by sizing and can be in any shape you desire. They do, however, take a very long time to build and are quite expensive.

Pros

• ✔ Many tiling options are available
• ✔ Not limited on sizing
• ✔ The shape can be customised

Cons

• ✖ Difficult to install
• ✖ Quite expensive

Stainless Steel Swimming Pool

A stainless steel pool is made up of rust-proof stainless steel, and the parts are welded together. These pools are strong, watertight and leakproof.

They don't need a lot of maintenance and are safe against vandalism, weather conditions, UV damage and water damage. However, these pools take the longest to install and also cost more than other types of pools.

Pros

• ✔ Rust-proof
• ✔ Watertight
• ✔ Leakproof
• ✔ Easy to maintain
• ✔ Vandalism-proof
• ✔ Safe against weather and UV damage

Cons

• ✖ Very long installation time
• ✖ Difficult to install
• ✖ Very expensive

What's Involved in Building a Swimming Pool?

Installing a garden swimming pool involves two main stages; planning and installation. Both should be handled by experienced professionals. Mistakes in groundworks, plumbing, or electrics can lead to costly structural issues, leaks, or drainage failures that are far more expensive to fix after the fact.

With this in mind, below is a brief (top-level) overview of both stages. However, what's physically involved is much more complicated - hence why it should always be left to the professionals:

Before the Job

• Permissions – If you need to get planning permission for your garden pool, this should be the first thing on your to-do list.
• Decide on the Design – Choose the shape, size, and location of the garden swimming pool you want. Make sure it fits your budget and suits your garden layout (e.g. level ground, away from tree roots).

During the Job

• Preparation – The garden pool area will need to be marked out and the site completely cleared.
• Excavation – The space for the pool will be dug out according to the plans. At this point, there will be soil waste to dispose of.
• Laying Base or Shell – This step will vary depending on what type of swimming pool installation you're undertaking. Essentially, this is the stage where the excavated site begins to look like a garden pool.
• Utility Installation – Any plumbing and electrics will be installed, depending on your specifications. Remember that any electrical works must be completed by a qualified electrician – this is not something you can DIY.

After the Job

• Final Touches – This may include filling in any gaps around the pool if needed or laying extra decking around the outside.
• Waste Removal – Any remaining waste or debris will be removed from the site, although check this is already included in the price.

These are guidelines on the process for installing garden swimming pools and the exact steps your tradesman will take depend on your pool type and what kind of finishing touches you'd like. It is therefore recommended to request quotes from more than one supplier, MyJobQuote can help find swimming pool installers near you.

Swimming Pool Removal Cost

If you have a pool in your garden that you no longer use, you may want to have it removed. Although this may seem like a simple job, it is actually quite a lot of work and can take a few weeks to complete.

The average cost of removing a swimming pool in the UK is around £4,000 to £10,000. The price will depend on the type of pool, the size of the pool, the difficulty of the job, and your location within the UK.

There are multiple stages to removing a swimming pool:

• Drain the pool.
• Remove all the external parts.
• Remove or destroy internal parts including the tiles and base.
• Ensure every piece of the pool has been removed.
• Fill the old swimming pool area with soil.
• Complete any landscaping over the top.

Removing a pool is difficult and very labour-intensive work, so it's a job that should be left to the professionals.

You may be able to reduce some of the costs of removing a pool by removing the external parts such as steps and diving boards and by draining the water. The rest of the work should be completed by professionals.

Checklist: Hiring Swimming Pool Installers in the UK

You will need to consider a few things before hiring contractors to install a garden swimming pool for you. Below is a list of some of the main things that you should consider when looking for the right contractors for the job:

• Check their experience with your pool type. Not all installers work with every pool type — confirm they have specific experience with the type you've chosen (e.g. fibreglass, concrete, or above-ground).
• Ask for a detailed cost breakdown. A reputable installer should be able to itemise labour, materials, groundworks, and any extras so you can compare quotes like for like.
• Confirm what's included in the quote. Clarify whether groundworks, waste removal, plumbing, and electrical work are included — or whether these are additional.
• Ask about guarantees and warranties. Find out what the installer guarantees on their workmanship and whether the pool shell or materials carry a separate manufacturer's warranty.
• Check they'll handle compliance. Your installer should be familiar with the relevant building regulations and confirm all electrical work will be carried out by a qualified electrician.
• Find out who will be on site. Confirm the team size and whether the installer uses their own employees or subcontractors, as this can affect accountability.
• Get at least 3 quotes. Costs can vary significantly between installers, so comparing multiple quotes is the best way to ensure you're getting fair value for the work involved.

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