What hot tub removal costs
| Item | Typical range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Hot tub removal, typical range | $150–$800 (about $400 on average) | Angi |
| Inflatable hot tub | $120–$300 | Angi |
| Above-ground hot tub | $250–$500 | Angi |
| In-ground hot tub | $400–$1,100 | Angi |
According to Angi, the price depends on the type, size, access and whether the tub has to be cut apart. In-ground tubs cost the most because they have to be broken out of the ground or deck.
What pool removal costs
| Item | Typical range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Pool removal, national average | about $6,000 | Angi |
| Above-ground pool | from about $300 | Angi |
| In-ground pool, full removal | $4,000–$16,000 | Angi |
| In-ground pool, partial removal | $2,500–$10,000 | Angi |
Angi puts the high end for in-ground pools at up to about $15,000 or more, depending on size, material, access and fill.
Full vs. partial pool removal
- Partial removal (“fill-in”): holes are punched in the bottom for drainage, the top section of the walls is broken off, and the pool is filled with the rubble and soil. It costs less but can limit what you build on that spot later, and some buyers or lenders ask about it.
- Full removal: the whole shell comes out, and the hole is filled with compacted soil. It costs more but leaves buildable ground.
Many cities require a permit for pool demolition, and some require an engineer’s report or compaction testing. The contractor usually handles this; ask before the work starts.
How hot tubs are removed
- Disconnect power. A hot tub has a dedicated electrical circuit; an electrician should disconnect it safely.
- Drain the water. Check local rules before draining chlorinated or bromine water into a storm drain.
- Move or cut. A tub in good shape may be moved in one piece. Most old tubs are cut into sections so they fit through gates.
- Dispose. The shell, cabinet and cover go into a container; metal parts, the pump and motor can often be recycled.
What goes into the dumpster
- Hot tub: acrylic or fiberglass shell, wood or composite cabinet, foam insulation, cover, pipes. Bulky but relatively light. A 10 yard container is usually enough.
- Above-ground pool: metal or resin walls, liner, frame and deck. A 10 to 20 yard container, depending on the pool and deck size.
- In-ground pool: concrete or gunite is extremely heavy. Removing a full shell often means several containers for clean concrete or a contractor’s own trucks. See concrete and dirt disposal.
- Pool decks: wood or composite decks around above-ground pools add volume. See deck removal.
Items that need special handling
- Pool chemicals: chlorine, acids and other chemicals are hazardous waste. Take them to a household hazardous waste collection; never put them in a dumpster.
- Electrical parts: heaters, pumps and control panels may be accepted by scrap metal recyclers.
- Old decking: pressure-treated wood is usually accepted in construction debris containers, but some areas restrict it – ask the provider.
See also what you can’t put in a dumpster.
DIY or hire a contractor?
A small inflatable or portable hot tub can be taken apart by homeowners with basic tools, once the power is disconnected. Larger hot tubs weigh several hundred pounds empty and need several people. In-ground pool demolition needs heavy equipment, permits and compaction, and is contractor work. If you hire a contractor, ask whether debris disposal is included – many include it, others expect you to provide a container.
Plan the site
- Check the access route: gates, fences and slopes decide whether equipment and containers can reach the backyard.
- Place the container as close as possible, on hard ground or a protected driveway. See how to protect your driveway.
- Call 811 before digging to have utility lines marked.
- Plan the fill: soil for a pool fill-in is delivered by the truckload, which competes for the same driveway space.
Timeline for a typical removal
- Hot tub: usually a single day once the power is disconnected and the water is drained – a few hours for cutting and loading.
- Above-ground pool: one to two days including the deck, plus time to regrade and seed the lawn.
- In-ground pool: several days to a few weeks, depending on permits, inspections, demolition, hauling and compaction of the fill.
Questions to ask a contractor
- Is the permit included, and who schedules inspections?
- Full or partial removal – and what documentation will I get for a future sale?
- Is debris removal included, or do I need my own container?
- How will the fill be compacted, and will it be tested?
- How will equipment reach the backyard, and who repairs lawn or fence damage?
What to do with the space
Many homeowners replace a pool with lawn, a patio or a garden. If you plan to build on the spot later, a full removal with compacted, tested fill gives more options. Ask your local building department what it requires before you choose.
How our service fits in
Local Dumpster Network is a free referral service. When you call, you are connected with an independent, local provider serving your ZIP code, who can advise on the right container for the job. See residential dumpster rental.