Building a new pool is an exciting opportunity to transform your backyard into a relaxing escape. But without the right planning and communication, that dream can easily become a drawn-out, stressful process. For homeowners in Coffs Harbour, understanding the steps involved and what to expect during pool construction can make a big difference. With experienced pool builders guiding you through each phase, from planning to handover, the journey can be smooth, efficient and enjoyable.



In this blog post, we’ll outline the most important considerations when building a pool, helping you avoid common pitfalls and manage expectations at every stage of the project.

Every pool build takes time, and knowing what to expect helps keep things in perspective. Pool builders in Coffs Harbour follow a structured process, often shaped by site conditions, weather, approvals, and custom design features. Understanding that even a straightforward pool can take several weeks to complete is essential.

Typical stages in a pool project:

• Design consultation & quotation
• Council approvals & engineering sign-off
• Site preparation & excavation
• Formwork, plumbing & steel fixing
• Concrete spraying or fibreglass shell installation
• Tiling, coping & fencing
• Final electrical & plumbing connections
• Landscaping & handover



While your builder should offer a general timeline, flexibility is key. Having realistic expectations from the outset prevents unnecessary stress.

Getting the green light from your local council is a vital early step. Pool construction in Coffs Harbour typically requires building approval, which ensures the design meets safety standards and complies with zoning regulations. Engaging a professional pool builder means they’ll usually handle your application process.



What’s commonly involved in the approval process:

• Site inspection & documentation
• Submission of engineering & design plans
• Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or Development Application (DA)
• Fencing & drainage compliance checks

Delays can occur if documents are incomplete or conditions are not met, so relying on an experienced pool builder can help streamline the paperwork.

Not all properties are created equal. The layout, slope, soil type and access to your site can significantly influence the type of pool that can be installed. Rather than choosing a design purely for aesthetics, work with a builder who will tailor the shape, depth and materials to the unique conditions of your backyard.

Important design considerations include:

• How close the pool will be to the boundary of the house
• Whether your yard has level ground or sloping areas
• The suitability of fibreglass vs concrete based on soil and access
• Sun exposure and prevailing winds

A pool that complements your site layout won’t just look better—it’ll be easier to build and maintain.

Before signing anything, it’s crucial to understand exactly what’s included in your construction contract. This means knowing what the builder is responsible for—and just as importantly, what they aren’t. Surprises often arise when something assumed to be included turns out to be an optional extra.

Common items to clarify in your pool contract:

• Excavation & soil disposal
• Pool heating & lighting systems
• Fencing, tiling & coping
• Electrical & plumbing connections
• Permit & approval fees
• Landscaping, decking & surrounds

Having everything itemised helps ensure transparency and avoids disputes once construction begins.

Construction is a disruptive process; preparing your property in advance can help minimise damage and reduce downtime. Pool builders will need clear access for excavation machinery and delivery vehicles, which may require temporary removal of fencing, landscaping or even parts of driveways.

Ways to prepare your site include:

• Clearing access paths of furniture, bins and low-hanging branches
• Informing neighbours about the timeline and potential noise
• Discussing where materials and machinery will be stored
• Protecting garden beds or paved areas that may be affected

Having a conversation with your builder early on helps anticipate these needs and plan accordingly.

Clear, consistent communication between you and your pool builder keeps your project on track. Good builders will provide updates at key milestones, advise of any delays, and inform you of changes or decisions requiring your input.

Look for these signs of strong communication:

• A single point of contact you can easily reach
• Progress updates via phone, email or in-person meetings
• Quick responses to questions and concerns
• Documentation of changes or variations in writing

Frequent communication helps manage expectations, avoid missteps and reduce confusion as the build progresses.

Even with the best planning, the weather in Coffs Harbour can significantly impact construction schedules. Heavy rain, storms, or prolonged wet conditions can halt excavation and delay concrete curing, particularly for in-ground concrete pools.

How builders deal with weather disruptions:

• Rescheduling excavation or spraying for clear weather
• Covering unfinished areas to reduce damage
• Monitoring conditions to keep materials protected
• Maintaining flexibility in the timeline

Understanding these potential delays and remaining flexible helps avoid disappointment when construction doesn’t follow the exact schedule.

While the pool is the main feature, your outdoor space will only truly come together when the finishing touches—such as landscaping, fencing and paving—are complete. Planning these elements early and coordinating them with your builder helps avoid a half-finished look and ensures a seamless transition from pool shell to backyard oasis.

Key elements to plan alongside your pool:

• Retaining walls, garden beds & turf
• Timber decking or paved surrounds
• Outdoor lighting & seating areas
• Pool fencing & safety gates

Discussing these items during the design phase allows your builder to prepare the site accordingly, saving time and extra costs later.

At Solitary Island Pools, we understand the importance of feeling confident and informed throughout your pool-building journey. From the first design consultation to final handover, our team of pool builders in Coffs Harbour are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you need advice on approvals, help choosing the right design or support coordinating the entire project, we’re here to make the process smooth, professional and stress-free. Get in touch via our contact page to discuss your new pool build or request a consultation.