My pool fence is new, does it still need to be inspected?
Yes, under the new legislation all pools and spas must be inspected. You will need to register with your local council and they can advise the date by which you must lodge a compliance certificate.
Does my spa require a safety barrier?
In Victoria, all swimming pools and spas capable of containing water greater than 300 mm (30 cm) must have a compliant safety barrier to restrict access to the pool area by young children (under the age of five). The Victorian Building Authority states barriers are required for:
- For a swimming pool or spa construction on or before 30 June 1994, a compliance certificate must be lodged by 1 June 2021.
- For a swimming pool or spa constructed between 1 July 1994 and 1 May 2012, a compliance certificate must be lodged by 1 June 2022.
- For a swimming pool or spa constructed between 1 May 2012 and 31 May 2020, a compliance certificate must be lodged by 1 June 2023.
How long does an inspection take?
The inspection generally takes less than an hour.
Do I need to be home while the inspection is carried out?
Not unless we need you to provide access to the pool area, or doors and windows form part of the safety barrier which need checking. We’ll discuss this with you when you arrange your inspection.
How long does it take to get my compliance certificate?
If your pool is compliant, you’ll receive your certificate within a day or two.
What if my barrier does pass the inspection?
If your pool is compliant, you’ll receive your certificate within a day or two.
What if my barrier doesn’t pass the inspection?
If your pool doesn’t comply, we’ll provide you with a report letting you know what needs to be done. You’ll then have 60 days to complete the work and have the pool re-inspected. If the barrier is still not compliant, we are required to notify your local council.
Should I contact POOLSAFE POOL & SPA INSPECTIONS FIRST?
No. The first thing you need to do as part of the pool inspections process is contact your local council to register your pool or spa. You’ll receive a letter from them, and based on the age of your pool, you’ll be given information about when your inspection needs to be completed.
Once you have that information, you can get in contact with us and we’ll arrange your inspection – usually within a couple of days.
When do inspectors need to issue a Certificate of Pool and Spa Barrier Non-compliance (Form 24)?
Pool safety barrier inspectors must issue a Form 24 immediately following an inspection if the barrier does not comply with the applicable barrier standard in any of the following ways:
- A door or gate forming part of the barrier, when in the closed position, is able to be opened by a person who is unable to reach the opening mechanism for that door or gate
- A door or gate forming part of the barrier is unable to be completely closed
- Any part of the barrier is less than 1 metre in height measured above ground level from the approach side
Poolsafe Pool & Spa Inspections strongly recommends all pool owners check their safety barrier to ensure the above areas of non-compliance are resolved immediately and prior to inspection.Where can I get more information about safety barrier requirements?
You can access more information about safety barrier standards and the new regulations from the Victorian Building Authority website.
