Question 1

Is PoolChoice free for homeowners?

Accepted Answer

Yes. PoolChoice is completely free to use. We're funded by builders who pay to receive leads — not by homeowners.

Question 2

How many quotes will I receive?

Accepted Answer

We match you with up to 3 builders based on your location, pool type, and what you're looking for. You may receive fewer if there aren't enough matching builders in your area.

Question 3

How quickly will builders get in touch?

Accepted Answer

Most matched builders contact homeowners within 1–2 business days.

Question 4

Can I request a quote from a specific builder?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Visit any builder's profile page and click 'Get a Quote' to send them a direct enquiry, or use the Get Quotes form which lets you pre-select a builder.

Question 5

Are pool builders on PoolChoice licensed?

Accepted Answer

Pool builders in Australia are generally required to hold a licence or registration, but requirements vary by state. Where a builder has provided or publicly listed their licence details, we display this on their profile. However, PoolChoice does not independently verify licence information. Always confirm credentials directly with the builder and your relevant state authority (e.g. NSW Fair Trading, QBCC, VBA) before signing any contract.

Question 6

How are builders vetted?

Accepted Answer

All builders in our directory have verified contact details. Builders who claim their profile go through additional verification. We check for SPASA membership and valid business registration. We publish all reviews — including negative ones — without interference.

Question 7

What does 'Verified Profile' mean?

Accepted Answer

A Verified Profile means the builder has claimed their listing and confirmed their business details. It's not a quality endorsement — that's what reviews are for.

Question 8

Can I read reviews before choosing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every profile shows ratings and reviews. We never remove reviews because a builder doesn't like them. Only spam or abuse gets removed.

Question 9

Do you take any payment from builders to influence which ones appear first?

Accepted Answer

No. Builder placement in search results is based on claimed status, ratings, and location — not on how much they pay us. We don't take advertising from builders.

Question 10

How long does it take to build a pool?

Accepted Answer

A fibreglass pool typically takes 6–12 weeks once council approval is granted. Concrete pools take 3–6 months. Council approval (DA) alone can take 4–12 weeks depending on your state and local council. Budget 4–6 months from signing a contract to swimming.

Question 11

Do I need council approval?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. In-ground pools almost always require a Development Application (DA). Some above-ground pools are exempt — check with your local council. Pool fencing is mandatory in all Australian states, regardless of pool type.

Question 12

What should be in a pool building contract?

Accepted Answer

At minimum: a full inclusions and exclusions list, a payment schedule tied to build stages (not dates — you should pay when milestones are reached), timeline with key dates, warranty terms, and a clear variation process for unexpected costs like rock excavation.

Question 13

What is SPASA?

Accepted Answer

SPASA (Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Australia) is the industry's peak body. Members agree to a code of conduct and have access to dispute resolution. It's worth choosing a SPASA member, but membership alone isn't a guarantee of quality.

Pool Building FAQs — Answered Honestly

Getting Quotes

About Pool Builders

The Build Process