Vinyl LinerIf you are in the market for a new home and have always dreamed of having an inground pool, there are certain factors you need to consider about the new property so you can properly install an inground pool. These factors include a level site, accessibility, your property lines, potential setbacks, as well as any bi-laws, restrictions and permit requirements. Such factors are crucial in planning a cost-effective installation. Let’s take a look at what you need to ask yourself to ensure you are buying a home that’s perfect for your inground pool.

Is your property level?

This may seem like an obvious question. You could be fixated on all the perks of your new home, including the big backyard that’s perfect for an inground swimming pool; but in order for a cost-effective installation, the backyard needs to be level. If your backyard is sloped, uneven, and so forth, you will have to invest in retaining walls. This is often an unforeseen cost my some pool owners, and can end up being quite expensive. Save yourself the expense by making sure your new property has a level yard.

Could large equipment access the backyard?

When it comes to installing an inground pool there is large equipment needed to access the pool area. Depending on the type of swimming pool and your installer’s equipment, the path could need to be up to 10-18 feet wide.  Fiberglass pools can often be lowered into the yard via a crane as well, so look for access points for large machinery around your property.   Fiberglass pools require a width in the upwards range of 14-18 feet. Remember to consider this when surveying the perimeter of your potential new home.

Are your property lines actually correct?

Believe it or not, many homeowners don’t realize the importance of double checking the survey to ensure their property lines are correct before proceeding with a project, such as installing a swimming pool. For many reasons it is important to make sure that your property lines are in fact the property lines as discussed by your real estate agent. Sometimes neighbouring properties can give off a misleading appearance of where the rear line ends. Double checking this will save you a headache later. Inspect the land survey, and make sure that you don’t install a pool on your neighbour’s property.

Does your city have certain requirements, restrictions, or bi-laws surrounding inground pool installation?

Whether you’re simply moving to upgrade features of your home, or moving to a new city, it is important to check your city’s regulations in regards to installing a swimming pool. Depending on where you are moving to, adhering to these regulations may be costly. You can find out more about this by contacting your local building and zoning department. Explain that your intent is to install an inground swimming pool on your property and inquire about the regulations surrounding the project.

Have you identified set property conditions?

Fiberglass pool in Toronto backyradThe best way to ensure success to purchasing a home where you can install the pool of your dreams, and do it cost-effectively, is by planning for potential setbacks and identifying any easements associated with the property. Before you go out and apply for a mortgage, Identify property conditions on your survey or plat of property, such as drainage pathways and utility lines. Now think about where you want to place your pool, would it obstruct or damage these pre-set property conditions? What about setbacks associated with this, like zoning?  An example could be that your pool needs to XX meters away from your rear property line.

It is important to investigate these regulations. The best way to plan for this is to do your research and set a separate budget to help ease any expenses that a setback could hinder. Talk to your building contractor and installer, or contact your zoning department.

 

Elitepools.ca is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today with any questions you may have about installing your new swimming pool.