How do I remove an old pool using a hired excavator?

## Pool Removal Using a Hired Excavator in NSW Removing an unwanted pool is a common project in Sydney — particularly for homeowners selling their property, subdividing, or simply reclaiming backyard space. A mini excavator makes pool removal significantly faster and cheaper than manual demolition. ### Types of Pools and Removal Methods **Concrete pools (gunite or shotcrete):** Concrete pool removal requires a hydraulic breaker attachment to break up the shell, followed by a bucket to remove the broken concrete. The 3.5T excavator with a hydraulic breaker is the standard setup. Contact BuildHire about hydraulic breaker hire. **Fibreglass pools:** Fibreglass pools are easier to remove than concrete. The shell can often be cut into sections with an angle grinder and removed with a 1.7T or 3.5T excavator. No hydraulic breaker is required. **Vinyl liner pools:** Vinyl liner pools have a steel or polymer frame that can be dismantled manually, with the excavator used to remove the frame and backfill the excavation. ### The Pool Removal Process 1. **Drain the pool:** Pump out all water. Check with your local council about where pool water can be discharged — chlorinated water cannot be discharged into stormwater drains in most NSW councils. 2. **Disconnect services:** Have a licensed plumber disconnect the pool pump, filter, and any gas or electrical connections before demolition begins. 3. **Punch drainage holes (partial removal option):** For a partial pool removal (filling in rather than full removal), punch holes in the pool base to allow drainage, then backfill. This is cheaper but may affect future development potential. 4. **Break up the shell (concrete pools):** Use the hydraulic breaker to break the concrete shell into manageable pieces. Work from the top down. 5. **Remove debris:** Use the excavator bucket to load broken concrete and fibreglass into a tipper truck for disposal. Concrete is heavy — a standard residential pool generates 15–30 tonnes of concrete rubble. 6. **Backfill:** Fill the excavation with clean fill in 300mm compacted layers. Ensure adequate compaction to prevent future settlement. 7. **Topsoil and turf:** Apply topsoil and turf or paving as required. ### Permits for Pool Removal in NSW Pool removal requires a development application (DA) or complying development certificate (CDC) in most NSW councils. Check with your local council before starting work. The council will also require the pool fence and gate to be removed and the pool to be deregistered from the NSW Swimming Pool Register. ### Cost of Pool Removal in Sydney A full concrete pool removal in Sydney typically costs $8,000–$20,000 depending on pool size, access, and disposal costs. Hiring the equipment yourself (3.5T excavator + hydraulic breaker + tipper) from BuildHire and managing the project yourself can significantly reduce this cost. Call 1300 157 882 for a combined hire quote.