Top 8 Questions to Ask Your Pool Builders on the Sunshine Coast
Planning a new pool is an exciting step for any property owner on the Sunshine Coast. Whether you’re investing in a designer showpiece, adding value to a rental property, or enhancing family leisure time, selecting the right pool builder can make all the difference. But with so many options out there, how do you separate polished sales pitches from true professionalism?
Asking the right questions early in the process helps you gauge a builder’s capability, understand their processes, and protect your investment. From verifying credentials to understanding filtration choices and timelines, here are eight essential questions every homeowner should ask their prospective pool builder.
1. Are You Licensed & Insured to Build Pools in This Area?
Before discussing design preferences or costs, confirm your pool builder is legally licensed and adequately insured. Queensland laws require pool builders to hold QBCC (Queensland Building and Construction Commission) licences and public liability insurance.
A licensed builder demonstrates credibility and is more likely to adhere to strict construction and safety codes. Insurance coverage, however, protects you from liability should damage or injury occur during the build.
Key things to confirm:
- The builder holds a current QBCC licence for pool construction
- They carry public liability and contractor insurance
- Their licence covers all associated works, including plumbing and electrical components
2. What Experience Do You Have with Building Designer Pools?
Not all pool builders on the Sunshine Coast are equipped to handle unique or high-end designs. If you’re after a bespoke pool that complements your landscape or has luxury finishes, experience matters. Builders with a strong portfolio of designer pools are more likely to manage site complexities and deliver stylish, functional results.
Experience also reflects a builder's familiarity with Sunshine Coast-specific factors such as soil types, climate considerations, and local design trends.
Ask about:
- The number of custom pool projects they’ve completed
- Specific experience with features like infinity edges, glass fencing or swim jets
- Photographs or site visits from recent designer builds
3. Can You Provide a Detailed Quote & Scope of Works?
A reputable pool builder should offer a comprehensive quote that clearly outlines what’s included, what’s not, and what additional charges may arise. This should go beyond a total dollar figure and include a breakdown of work stages, materials, system components and any extras.
Vague estimates often lead to unexpected costs later in the project. A detailed quote helps you compare builders accurately and sets expectations from the outset.
Check that the quote includes:
- Excavation, plumbing and concreting
- Pool equipment (filters, pumps, chlorinators)
- Fencing, paving, decking or landscaping (if offered)
- Council approval and inspection fees
- Clear warranty information for both labour and parts
4. How Do You Ensure the Pool Design Complies with Council Regulations?
Sunshine Coast Council has specific requirements regarding pool safety barriers, proximity to property boundaries, and water runoff management. These requirements vary depending on your suburb, land zoning, and site features.
Experienced builders should be well-versed in these local laws and ideally manage the council application process on your behalf. This minimises delays and ensures your pool passes final inspection without costly alterations.
Clarify:
- Whether the builder handles council approvals and final certification
- If they understand Sunshine Coast safety fencing and filtration laws
- How do they ensure the design complies with boundary setback rules
5. What Type of Pool Filtration & Pump System Do You Recommend?
Pool performance and maintenance depend on choosing the right pump and filtration system. From standard chlorinated setups to mineral or fresh water options, each has pros and cons in terms of running costs, water feel, and maintenance.
Your builder should offer guidance based on your pool’s size, usage habits, and preferred maintenance level, not just selling what’s easiest to install.
Discuss:
- Chlorine, saltwater, mineral or ozone-based filtration systems
- Energy efficiency ratings for pumps and heating systems
- Automated cleaning or dosing options for low-maintenance upkeep
6. How Will You Address Drainage & Site Conditions?
Sunshine Coast properties vary widely in elevation, soil structure and access. Poor site drainage can cause long-term issues like pool shifting, erosion, or flooding. A skilled builder will assess your block thoroughly before construction and factor in retaining walls, waterproofing, and stormwater management as needed.
Be wary of contractors who skip soil tests or provide one-size-fits-all designs without addressing site specifics.
Ask them to explain:
- How they assess and manage slope or water run-off
- What drainage solutions will be built into the project
- How unexpected issues (like rock or high water tables) are handled
7. What is the Project Timeline from Start to Finish?
Understanding your builder’s process and how long it typically takes to complete a pool helps set realistic expectations. While delays can happen, particularly due to weather or permits, a professional team will provide a structured timeline with key milestones.
They should also explain what parts of the project are most time-sensitive and whether they subcontract aspects like fencing or tiling.
Request:
- A step-by-step timeline from design to handover
- Estimated timeframes for each stage (e.g. excavation, plumbing, curing)
- Communication protocols for progress updates and changes
8. What Kind of Maintenance Support or Aftercare Do You Offer?
A well-constructed pool should offer years of enjoyment—but all pools require maintenance. Good builders help you understand how to care for your pool and may offer initial servicing or handover support.
Look for those who provide manuals, training sessions or post-build check-ins. Aftercare reflects the builder’s ongoing commitment to customer satisfaction and can reduce the likelihood of early issues.
Find out if they:
- Include a post-construction service or warranty inspection
- Provide guidance on cleaning, water testing and equipment operation
- Offer servicing packages or connections to local maintenance providers
Find Trusted Pool Builders Near You – Start Your Project Today
A swimming pool is a long-term investment that should reflect your lifestyle, enhance your property, and provide safe, enjoyable use for years. Asking the right questions ensures your chosen builder is competent and invested in achieving your vision within the scope of your budget and Sunshine Coast’s local regulations.
By discussing licensing, experience, detailed costs, council approval, drainage, systems and support, you’ll better understand who you’re working with and what results you can expect. With careful planning and clear communication, your pool project can move from dream to reality with minimal stress and maximum satisfaction.
Ready to take the plunge? Contact our team at Pools By Design.
