What should Markham homeowners know before filling in an inground pool?There are two main approaches: a partial removal, where the top of the pool is removed, the floor is broken for drainage and the hole is filled, or a full removal, where the whole shell is taken out. Full removal costs more but leaves fewer questions at resale. Ask the City whether your project needs a permit, especially near a ravine or if you plan to build over it, and keep records to share with future buyers.
Many 1980s and 1990s homes in Raymerville, German Mills, Unionville and Markham Village came with pools. Some buyers would rather have a lawn, a garden or room for the kids to play.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, helps buyers think through the cost and the paperwork before they plan a removal.
Partial vs. full removal
| Approach | What happens | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Partial removal | Top removed, floor broken for drainage, filled and compacted | Lower cost; shell remains underground |
| Full removal | Entire shell removed, filled and compacted | Higher cost; fewer limits on future use |
Doing it properly
- Drain the pool safely and disconnect electrical and gas lines.
- Remove the pump, heater and equipment.
- Break the floor if leaving any shell, so water can drain.
- Fill in layers with suitable material and compact each layer.
- Restore grading so water flows away from the home and neighbours.
Permits to ask about
Markham requires a permit to build a pool enclosure, but its pool and fence page does not address removal. Ask the City about any permit for the work, especially if the lot is near a ravine or in a Toronto and Region Conservation Authority regulated area, or if you plan to build a deck, patio or shed on the former pool area.
Love the house, not the pool?
Michael John Lau can help you weigh removal costs as part of your offer.
Book a buyer consultationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Disclosure when you sell
A buried pool shell can affect future building and drainage. Keep contractor invoices, photos and any engineering letters. Tell future buyers whether the pool was partly or fully removed; your lawyer can advise on disclosure.
Is it worth it?
Removing a pool ends opening, closing and repair costs, and can widen the buyer pool for some homes. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you decide.
The right backyard is the one that fits your family. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fill in my inground pool in Markham?
Yes, many owners do. Ask the City whether your project needs a permit.
What is the difference between partial and full removal?
Partial leaves part of the shell underground; full removal takes it all out.
Why break the pool floor?
So water can drain and does not collect under the fill.
Can I build on a filled-in pool?
Ask the City first, and expect stricter requirements if any shell remains.
Should I disclose a removed pool when selling?
Keep records and speak with your lawyer about disclosure.
Does removing a pool help resale?
It can for some buyers, while others prefer a pool.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Pool enclosure permit rules are from the City of Markham Fences and Swimming Pools page, which does not cover removal. Removal steps are general guidance; confirm requirements with the City of Markham. This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
