The Overlooked Costs of Pool Installation in Florida That Homeowners Should Plan For

There’s nothing revolutionary about calling a pool an investment, and even though it’s a wise one for many Florida homeowners, it’s important to acknowledge that if you want your dream pool, you’ll have to prepare to handle some major expenses.

That’s part of the problem, though; many homeowners don’t know what they’re actually preparing for. They’ll create a budget they assume is realistic (generous, even), only to find that they’re floundering for more cash mid-construction.

Fortunately, you can avoid that outcome by understanding the ins and outs of pool installation. Knowing which steps might have you pulling out your wallet will also ensure that it’s full enough to cover it when you do.

The Initial Cost of Pool Installation

The initial costs of the build are arguably where most new pool owners think their expenses begin and end. And to some extent, they’re right; most pool builders will provide quotes that include the majority of anticipated costs.

The most common issue, however, lies in the variability between builds. Some homeowners might spend $60,000 on their new swimming pool, while others easily triple that budget.
Your best way to plan for these costs is to shop around for quotes, not just to find out which one is the lowest, but to gauge how much your design will cost. You can even ask for more detailed estimates; any reliable pool installation specialist will be happy to share the specifics with you.

Site Preparation, Excavation, and Construction

The inground pool installation process almost always involves intense excavation, especially if you’re building on a slope or uneven terrain. If there are rocks or existing structures in the way, those will need to be either moved or demolished, which will also impact your bottom line. You can ready yourself for these tasks by discussing how the design will work with your yard. The less excavation, the better (and cheaper).

You should talk with your designer about these even if you aren’t as concerned about preparation expenses; viewing the design from this angle can make pools look like an extension of your landscape rather than stick out like a sore thumb.

Florida Pool Permits and Inspections

Obtaining permits is a vital — albeit potentially expensive — part of a pool installation. The more complex your project is, the higher the chances are that you’ll either pay more or need additional documents. It’s important to note, though, that different municipalities have different requirements; what applies to one area doesn’t necessarily apply to another.

In any case, these are unavoidable expenses, which means the only way to plan for them is to budget for them from the very start. Talk with your pool contractor to get a good idea of what you can expect to pay; there’s a good chance they’ve worked on similar projects and can give you a ballpark range to prepare for.

Plan for Utility Connections

Pools require heat, electricity, and (as redundant as it sounds) water. But that also means that you’ll need to shell out to connect these utilities to the pools. Most homeowners can expect the total to be in the low thousands, but that can vary depending on your existing utility lines and how complicated the setup is.

You’re probably sensing a pattern, but it’s once again wise to talk with your contractor about these expenses before construction begins in your backyard. Ask them if the initial connections are included in what they quoted you for the installation. If they aren’t, budget for these separately, and know that they’re something you’ll need to take care of before you can use your swimming pool.

Accessories and Other Features for an Inground Pool

The fun part is when you get to let your imagination run wild with waterfalls, lighting, and heating systems. But as delightful as it is to incorporate your designs, your overall costs will inevitably increase with every feature you add.

Water features and other elements are also investments, so the answer isn’t to shy away from them; it’s to prioritize them. What can you absolutely not live without in your swimming pool? It doesn’t matter what the answer is. Just make room for it in your budget. That way, if you run into unexpected costs at any point during basic construction, you can either pair features back or scrap them altogether based on how vital they are to the final product.

Landscaping and Decking

While it’s not a cost directly associated with pool installations, most homeowners spend a good amount of cash on upgrading the landscaping in their backyard or patio. Some elements, like fencing, are crucial for safety, while others are purely decorative, such as a spot for a fire pit. Either way, they can add up in ways most don’t always see coming.

If you’re concerned about these costs, rein in your spending and opt for cheaper materials. The materials should still provide good value, but even choosing some that are lower maintenance will help cushion your bottom line.

Common Insurance Costs

The easiest expense to forget is a higher home insurance premium. How high yours will get will vary based on the company and your location, but building a new pool will likely impact your coverage and rates. You may need to switch providers, policies, or both to get coverage with your new pool.

Take a similar approach to your insurance as you did with your pool installation: Shop around for quotes. The easiest thing to do is simply stick with your existing provider, but if you’re willing to do your research, you might find that switching to another plan could save you enough money to justify that water slide you had your eye on.

Get a Professional, Affordable Home Pool Installation With Tampa Bay Pools

Whether the sky’s the limit or you’re budget-conscious, you deserve to work with a pool builder that respects your vision. Tampa Bay Pools is the company you can trust to provide you with custom pool installation services that cater to your needs. We’ll work with you through budget bottlenecks to ensure that you’re getting the pool you’ve always wanted. Reach out to us today to learn more about our financing options and schedule an appointment with a professional.