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mySwimming Pool Installation Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost of building a swimming pool is around £75,000.
- The job will usually take between 3 and 8 weeks to complete.
- Swimming pool installation costs and the styles available.
- How long the job will take and what's typically involved.
- How to find a swimming pool installer near you using MyJobQuote.
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£75,000
Table of Contents
- How Much Does a Swimming Pool Cost to Build?
- Swimming Pool Installation Prices
- How Much Does an Indoor Swimming Pool Cost?
- Labour Cost to Build a Swimming Pool & Timescales
- Supply Cost to Build a Swimming Pool
- Factors That Impact Swimming Pool Installation Costs
- Building Regulations & Planning Permission for Swimming Pool Installations
- Additional Swimming Pool Installation Costs
- Swimming Pool Maintenance Cost
- Types of Swimming Pools
- What's Involved in Building a Swimming Pool?
- Swimming Pool Removal Cost
- Checklist: Hiring Swimming Pool Installers in the UK
- FAQs
How Much Does a Swimming Pool Cost to Build?
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 swimming pool.
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Is it worth repairing a neglected outdoor swimming pool or is it more cost effective to rip it out and start again?
"It will always be cheaper to repair a couple of tiles or mosaic swimming pool sheets, but if you're tired of the old run-down look and fancied an upgrade, it might be worth the rip-out work.
Ultimately it depends on how many tiles need repairing."
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.
| Size Category | Approximate Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (e.g. 7m x 3.5m) | £30,000–£50,000 |
| Medium (e.g. 10m x 5m) | £50,000–£85,000 |
| Large (e.g. 15m x 6m) | £75,000–£150,000+ |
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A 10m swimming pool is one of the most searched-for sizes in the UK. A 10m x 5m outdoor pool with an in-ground 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 Installation Cost
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.
| Type of Swimming Pool | Average Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Above-ground pool 12ft x 24ft | £5,000–£10,000 | 1 to 2 weeks |
| Small pool with liner | £30,000–£40,000 | 2 to 4 weeks |
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Mid-Range Swimming Pool Installation Cost
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.
| Type of Swimming Pool | Average Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Medium fibreglass pool | £50,000–£70,000 | 3 to 5 weeks |
| Large fibreglass pool | £60,000–£85,000 | 4 to 6 weeks |
| Medium concrete pool with mosaic tiles | £60,000–£90,000 | 4 to 7 weeks |
| Large concrete pool with mosaic tiles | £75,000–£110,000 | 6 to 8 weeks |
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Bespoke / Premium Swimming Pool Installation Cost
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.
| Type of Swimming Pool | Average Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Medium overflow pool | £90,000–£150,000+ | 6 to 10 weeks |
| Large overflow pool | £120,000–£250,000+ | 8 to 12+ weeks |
| Medium stainless-steel pool | £90,000–£140,000+ | 6 to 10 weeks |
| Large stainless-steel pool | £120,000–£200,000+ | 8 to 12+ weeks |
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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, indoor pools need 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 £155,000, though prices can range from £85,000 to well over £220,000 for larger or more bespoke-designed indoor pools.
| Type of Indoor Pool | Average Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Small indoor fibreglass pool | £85,000–£120,000 | 8 to 14 weeks |
| Medium indoor concrete pool (10m x 5m) | £120,000–£175,000 | 12 to 20 weeks |
| Large bespoke indoor pool | £175,000–£220,000+ | 16 to 26+ weeks |
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The extra costs for an indoor swimming pool typically include a structural survey and planning approval, specialist pool room construction, 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 to Build 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.
Swimming Pool Labour Costs by Pool Type
| Project Type | Labour Cost (UK) | Labour Cost (London) |
|---|---|---|
| Above-ground pool | £3,500 | £4,200 |
| Small in-ground liner pool | £9,000 | £11,000 |
| Medium fibreglass or concrete pool | £22,500 | £27,000 |
| Large or bespoke swimming pool | £45,000 | £54,000 |
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Pool Installation Team Sizes & Timescales
| Project Type | Team Size | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Above-ground pool | 2 installers | 1 to 2 weeks |
| Small in-ground liner pool | 2 to 3 installers | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Medium fibreglass or concrete pool | 3 to 4 installers | 3 to 7 weeks |
| Large or bespoke swimming pool | 4 installers | 6 to 12 weeks |
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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
6 votes - 24%24% of votes
Vinyl liner
5 votes - 20%20% of votes
Fibreglass
4 votes - 16%16% of votes
Concrete or tiled
10 votes - 40%40% of votes
25 votes
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Pool kit prices are noticeably cheaper, but this is because the costs 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:
| Type of Swimming Pool Kit | Average cost |
|---|---|
| 24ft x 12ft swimming pool kit | £6,000–£7,500 |
| 28ft x 14ft swimming pool kit | £7,500–£9,500 |
| 30ft x 14 ft swimming pool kit | £8,500–£10,500 |
| 32ft x 16ft swimming pool kit | £9,000–£11,000 |
| 36ft x 18ft swimming pool kit | £9,500–£11,500 |
| 40ft x 20ft swimming pool kit | £10,000–£12,500 |
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Factors That Impact Swimming Pool Installation Costs
Several things can affect the overall swimming pool cost. Below is a list of the main factors affecting the cost of installing a garden swimming pool 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 swimming pool cost. For example, a small above-ground pool will cost considerably less than a fully tiled below-ground pool.
- What size is the pool? Pool size will also have a large effect on the overall swimming pool 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 swimming 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 total swimming pool cost. 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 have poor natural drainage, excavation costs can increase as soil conditions may require additional work.
- Is garden clearance included? Waste removal from the swimming 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.
What sort of costs are involved in the design stage of creating an infinity pool?
"Infinity pool design can vary depending on where the pool is going, what features you want (including surround and area around pool), as well as water features themselves."
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 other restrictions.
Building Regulations
For an unenclosed outdoor swimming pool, building regulations approval is not usually necessary. However, depending on the type of outdoor pool and installation, there may be separate requirements for the electrical and heating work. 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.
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.
Delivery & Site Access
Pool shells and other heavy and large equipment needed for your swimming pool all need to get to where they're being installed. Specialist delivery and any required heavy-lifting equipment can add £500 to £3,000 to your installation 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, excavating soil, and preparing the base can cost £5,000 to £15,000, depending on ground conditions, access, and the size of the swimming pool.
Soil & Waste Removal
If you're installing a below-ground pool, the excavation is likely to produce a significant amount of soil and waste that needs disposing of. Where this isn't specifically included in the groundworks cost, removal and disposal costs could be £1,000 to £5,000.
Plumbing and Water Supply
Connecting your outdoor 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 swimming 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 may also need to notify 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.
Heating
To make use of your swimming 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.
Advanced Pool Filtration System
Keeping your pool clean and clear is essential to maximising your enjoyment of it. Upgrading to more advanced water treatment systems that use UV or provide automatic chemical dosing can add £1,000 to £5,000 to your costs, with the sophisticated automatic options at the top of this range.
Saltwater System
You might decide you want your new pool to use saltwater chlorination rather than conventional chlorine, which some swimmers find more enjoyable. Installing a saltwater chlorinator and the associated equipment to achieve this could cost £1,000 to £4,000 more.
Pool Cover
A pool cover is a worthwhile investment for any outdoor swimming 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 option for an outdoor pool at £200 to £600 and can meaningfully reduce heating costs.
LED Pool Lighting
Adding bright, colour-changing LED lighting to your swimming pool can further enhance your enjoyment of it, especially at night. Depending on the type and number of lights you require, this might be expected to add £500 to £2,000.
Water Features
If you want to give your new swimming pool an even greater wow-factor, adding integrated water features like fountains and waterfalls could be the way to go. Depending on the type and scale of the features you want, these may cost £500 to £5,000 more.
Robotic / Automatic Pool Cleaner
Regular pool cleaning is essential and if you want to make this easier, automatic or robotic pool cleaners can help. With options that clean the floor, sides, and waterline of your swimming pool, expect to pay £500 to £2,000 extra.
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.
Swimming Pool Maintenance Cost
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 indoor or outdoor pools.
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.
Are chlorine granules or tablets easier to use in a swimming pool?
"I recommend tablets, as they should require less frequent checking and help with longer term stability of pool chemistry. The delivery system is critical (how you add your chlorine?) to ensure safe, accurate levels that do the job whilst not causing any long term damage."
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 Cost
- Typical Installed Costs — £5,000 to £10,000.
- Best For — Homeowners on a budget looking for a quicker and easier installation.
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 outdoor 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
- ✔ No major excavation required
- ✔ Cheap
Cons
- ✖ Considered not as aesthetically pleasing.
- ✖ Only available in limited sizes.
- ✖ Not ideal for swimming full lengths.
Resin and Fibreglass Swimming Pools Cost
- Typical Installed Costs — £50,000 to £85,000.
- Best For — Those looking for standard, low-maintenance in-ground options.
These swimming 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
- ✖ Limited choice of sizes and shapes available.
Overflow Swimming Pool Cost
- Typical Installed Costs — £90,000 to £250,000+.
- Best For — Bigger budgets wanting luxury, visually stunning pool options.
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.
- ✔ High-end, aesthetically appealing design.
- ✔ Luxury, water-level appearance.
Cons
- ✖ Can be more expensive and complex to install.
Are swim spa pools suitable for outdoor installation in the UK?
"Swim spa pools are suitable to install outside, most swimming pools we install are built outside then the walls are built around them. Only a few swimming centres and spas we have tiled have been inside the building."
Poured or Sprayed Concrete Pool Cost
- Typical Installed Costs — £60,000 to £110,000+.
- Best For — Those wanting design flexibility and bespoke designs with custom finishes.
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 flat wall designs are often used to keep swimming pool costs down.
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 Cost
- Typical Installed Costs — £90,000 to £200,000+.
- Best For — Contemporary homeowners looking for durable, low-maintenance premium pools.
A stainless steel pool is made up of highly corrosion-resistant 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 very durable and resistant to damage. However, these pools can take longer to install and may also cost more than other types of pools.
Pros
- ✔ Durable
- ✔ Easy to maintain
- ✔ More resistant to damage
- ✔ Safe against weather and UV damage
Cons
- ✖ Difficult to install
- ✖ Very expensive
We've got a big garden and love the idea of a natural pond style pool with plants instead of chlorine. How do they compare on price to a normal pool?
"A natural swimming pool (also called a swimming pond) is usually more expensive to build than a standard chlorine pool, mainly because it needs both a swimming area and a separate regeneration zone filled with aquatic plants and filtration media."
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 work should be carried out by a competent, suitably-qualified electrician.
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.
FAQs
How Do You Build a Cheap Swimming Pool?
The cheapest pools are above-ground swimming pools, and these are a great option if you're on a tight budget. These pools generally consist of a metal frame and a waterproof membrane that can be filled with water.
What Are the Health Benefits of a Swimming Pool?
The act of swimming can provide a full-body, low-impact workout, one that can improve cardiovascular health, muscle tone and weight management. It can also help reduce stress, improving both physical and mental wellbeing while promoting relaxation and supporting a better sleep.
What Temperature for the Water in an Outdoor Pool?
A comfortable temperature for an outdoor pool in the UK is usually somewhere between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius, depending on the preferred usage, with Swim England suggesting an average pool temperature of 29 degrees.
How Long Does a Swimming Pool Last?
The lifespan of a swimming pool depends on the design and materials used. With proper maintenance, pool liners can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, compared to 30 or more when using concrete, although any additional repairs and upgrades can help any pool last much longer.
Do I Need To Add the Pool to My House Insurance?
Yes, advising your home insurance company that you've installed a garden swimming pool is a sensible idea as it may affect your liability cover. Some policies also include optional add-ons against accidental pool damage.
Will a Swimming Pool Drastically Increase My Water Rates?
After the initial filling up of the swimming pool, it won't actually require much water for general maintenance, but whether your water bill increases will depend on whether you are a metered or unmetered household, with those on a water meter likely to see some increase.
