Pool Fencing Inspection
The New Pool Safety Laws
Queensland’s new pool safety laws were introduced in 2009 and aim to reduce the incidences of drowning and serious immersion injuries of young children in swimming pools. Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in Queensland for children under the age of 5 years old. There is now 1 pool safety standard, which has replaced 11 different standards.
All exemptions (apart from disability exemptions) were also abolished
Pool safety register
All pools in Queensland need to be registered on the Queensland Government’s pool safety register. Failing to register your pool can result in an on the spot fine of $220 or a maximum penalty of up to $2200 if a complaint is made to your local government or the Pool Safety Council. You can still register your property’s pool online, or by contacting the Pool Safety Council on 1800 340 634 or PSC@qld.gov.au.
The laws affect new and existing pools.
Since 1 December 2010, pool safety certificates have been required when selling or leasing a property with a pool. Pool safety certificates must be obtained from a licensed pool safety inspector. All Pool owners In Queensland have until 30 November 2015 to obtain a Pool Fence Safety certificate for there pools or earlier if they sell or lease their property before this time.
For buyers, sellers, lessors and agents
Pool safety laws apply to pools associated with houses, townhouses, units, hotels, motels, backpacker hostels, homestay accommodation and caravan parks (building classes 1-4 as defined under the Building Code of Australia).
- Renting – When leasing a property there must be a valid pool fence safety certificate in place before you can rent a property
- Buying – If the vendor does not obtain a Pool safety certificate for the pool fence and they have signed a Form 36 then the new owner has 90 days from settlement to obtain one- failure to do so will result in fines from the local council
Hotels, motels and resorts and other class 3 buildings
As part of the new pool safety laws hotels, motels, resorts and other buildings providing short term accommodation were required to comply with new pool safety standard by 1 June 2011 following a 6-month phase-in period. Pool Safety certificate for this class of building are valid for 12 months only and must be renewed every 12 months. Under the new legislation, hotels, motels, resorts and other class 3 buildings have an option to adopt a pool safety management plan as an alternative to constructing a compliant pool barrier. Pool safety management plans must be approved by the Department Local Government & Planning .