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Autumn is the right time to switch from project mode to actually building your pool! It's a project that needs to be carefully thought through to avoid unpleasant surprises: a feasibility study, choice of professionals, submission and approval of the building permit, choice of materials and equipment, and project management all take several months to get a pool that lives up to your dreams! What's more, good builders have full order books, because all customers are like you : they're dreaming of enjoying their pool for the next season! Here's some advice on how to make your project a reality.
Building an in-ground swimming pool is an ambitious project that generally involves three distinct phases.
The first phase, lasting from 1 to 4 months, consists of preparing the project. This includes the precise definition of your needs and the pool design, the choice of qualified service providers, and the launch of the necessary administrative procedures, such as obtaining building permits.
Then comes the construction phase, which lasts between 2 and 6 months. This stage involves the start of structural work, the assembly of the pool structure, the installation of the filtration system, and the installation of the power supply.
Finally, the last phase, which takes 1 to 2 months, concerns the finishing touches. This includes laying the pool's inner lining, installing the coping around the pool, and putting the finishing touches and water in the pool.
If you have a small garden in the city, an above-ground pool may be just what you need. Read our article dedicated to the advantages of an above-ground pool.
The construction of a swimming pool is based on a number of criteria that influence not only the initial budget, but also the long-term costs associated with energy and water consumption. It's also crucial to comply with regulatory standards, which can vary from country to country.
In addition, since January 2023 there has been a European environmental standard for private swimming pools, which requires manufacturers to categorize their pools according to an energy performance rating ranging from A (the most virtuous) to F (the most energy-intensive). This new standard can also help you choose a pool based on ecological and economic criteria.
The type of pool is a determining factor : you'll need to choose from different sizes, shapes and construction techniques (concrete, shell or ki pools). As for the water, it's essential to select an efficient filtration system and appropriate water treatment. Last but not least, you'll be offered different options for lighting, staircases and coping.
The pool house, plays a central role in the upkeep and maintenance of your pool, housing the pump, filtration system and heating equipment. If you plan to use this space as a storage area, note that for a surface area of up to 20 m², a simple declaration of works is all that's needed, while for larger areas, planning permission is required.
The choice of equipment is also crucial : depending on your budget, you can opt for manual solutions or intelligent devices integrated with home automation, such as connected water analyzers. Consider pool covers and shutters, which offer a variety of options for safety and protection, as well as additional equipment such as cleaning robots, alarms and safety barriers. Depending on your budget, you can choose manual or smart equipment, such as an ICO connected water analyzer that integrates into your home's home automation control system.
The cost of earthworks and landscaping for a swimming pool depends on its size, the type of pool, access to the site, the nature of the soil and the landscaping elements required. For example, if the soil is rocky or difficult to dig into, this will require more time and effort, while clay soil may require the creation of specific drainage solutions. A feasibility study and comparison of several quotes is strongly advised.
Le budget de construction d’une piscine comprend plusieurs volets :
Finally, if you're building your pool on your own or using the services of a professional, it's very important to make sure you comply with the regulations and standards in force in your country:
Pools over 100 m² : Planning permission is required for any pool whose surface area exceeds 100 m². This also includes pools covered by a fixed or mobile structure over 1.80 m high.
Pools between 10 m² and 100 m² : a preliminary building permit is generally required, unless they are covered by a structure over 1.80 m high, in which case a building permit is required.
Building a swimming pool can have tax implications, considered as an improvement to your property. In France, here are some key points to consider:
When a swimming pool is built, a development tax is generally payable. The amount depends on the surface area of the pool and a rate set by the commune and département (1 m² is generally valued at €200).
It's important to declare the construction of your pool to the local tax authorities to avoid penalties. This declaration must be made within 90 days of completion. This will enable you to adjust your taxation correctly. By taking these tax aspects into account, you can better anticipate the costs associated with building your pool and avoid financial surprises.
Calling in a professional is recommended if you want an in-ground or semi-in-ground pool, as it requires a great deal of skill and guarantees compliance with standards and regulations. To carry out your project, you need to pay close attention to a number of criteria and seek out as much information as possible before committing yourself to the contractor of your choice.
To make the most of your pool next summer, don't hesitate to contact professionals in late summer or early autumn! Don't hesitate to rely on a network of approved professionals and consult customer reviews. Finally, to choose your equipment and get inspiration, there's nothing better than visiting showrooms and trade fairs and reading the trade press.
