The last thing you want after shelling out thousands of dollars for a new pool is a surprise bill for work you never anticipated.
At Aloha Pools & Spas, we believe in leaving hidden fees and unexpected bills to the medical professionals. For more than 57 years, we’ve helped homeowners understand not only the cost of a pool, but also the additional expenses that can arise during installation.
Most pool projects go as planned. However, every backyard is different, and certain conditions can lead to additional costs that aren’t always obvious at the beginning of the project.
In this article, we’ll cover the most common hidden or unexpected costs associated with building a pool so you can plan your budget with confidence.
8 Potential Hidden Costs
We all know that you’re going to be paying for labor and materials, but what else drives the price of a pool? Here are 8 potential hidden costs of building your pool:
1. Dirt Removal and Hauling
One of the most common additional expenses involves moving dirt.
When an inground pool is excavated, the removed soil cannot stay on the premises (unless we’re comfortable having really unhappy customers). In some cases, it can be spread around the property, and in others, it must be hauled away. On the other side of the spectrum, severely sloped yards may require additional fill dirt to create a level installation area.
Typical cost: $200–$2,000 added to the cost of labor
Most homeowners spend around $1,000 or less, though unusually challenging sites can increase costs.
2. Retaining Walls
Retainer wallers are sturdy walls built between a swimming pool and a sloped yard to hold back dirt, sand, and rock. It gives the team a safe and flat area to build the pool.
If your yard has a significant slope- around 4ft- a retaining wall may be required to safely support the pool area.
Retaining walls help stabilize the surrounding soil and ensure the long-term integrity of both the pool and the yard.
Typical cost: $40-$125 per square foot
Pricing varies based on wall height, materials, engineering requirements, and local labor costs.
3. Unmarked Underground Utilities
Before construction begins, utility locations are identified through 811 services whenever possible. However, some rural areas may not have all of their lines marked.
If excavation damages an unmarked utility line, repairs may create additional costs. If you’d like to hear more about the pool construction process, click here.
Typical cost: $200-$3,000
While uncommon, the cost depends entirely on the type and extent of the damage.
4. Yard Restoration
Many homeowners focus on the pool itself and forget to budget for restoring the surrounding yard afterward.
Construction equipment, excavation, and material deliveries can leave areas that need new grass, landscaping, grading, or other improvements.
Typical cost: Varies
For basic sod installation, many homeowners spend roughly $800–$1,500 in materials, though larger landscaping projects can cost significantly more.
5. Sidewalk or Concrete Damage
Sometimes the safest or only access point for construction equipment is across an existing driveway, sidewalk, or concrete surface.
While crews take every precaution to avoid damage, heavy equipment occasionally cracking concrete is inevitable.
At Aloha Pools & Spas, we remove and replace damaged sections as a courtesy. Homeowners are typically responsible only for the replacement concrete costs, which is added to the pool concrete cost.
Typical cost: $500-$800
6. Fence Removal and Reinstallation
If construction equipment needs access through an existing fence, sections may need to be temporarily removed and reinstalled once the project is complete.
Many homeowners choose to have the original fencing company handle this work.
Typical cost: Varies
In most cases, expect to pay for approximately half a day of labor for a two-person crew.
7. Pool Fencing Requirements
Many municipalities require a fence around a pool to meet local safety codes.
Even in areas where fencing isn’t required, homeowners should discuss safety and liability considerations with their insurance provider before deciding against one.
Typical cost: Varies
Pricing depends on fence material, style, height, and local installation rates.
8. Property Taxes
Depending on where you live, adding a pool may increase your property’s assessed value and, in turn, your property taxes.
Requirements vary widely by state and municipality. Of the states Aloha Pools & Spas serves, Illinois generally has some of the most detailed regulations regarding pool-related property assessments.
Before purchasing a pool, check with your local tax authority or speak with your sales representative to understand any potential tax implications.
Are Hidden Pool Costs Common?
The good news is that most pool projects don’t encounter all of these expenses.
Many homeowners will never need a retaining wall, utility repair, or significant dirt hauling. However, understanding these possibilities in advance can help you avoid surprises and create a more realistic budget.
The best way to understand which costs may apply to your project is to have your property evaluated by an experienced pool contractor before construction begins.
Have Questions About Pool Installation Costs?
At Aloha Pools & Spas, we work hard to identify potential expenses early so you know exactly what to expect before construction starts.
If you’d like to discuss your project, get a site evaluation, or learn more about pool installation costs, contact our team today. We’re excited to help you create the backyard you’ve been dreaming about.
