Regulations
Before the inspection
Many pool inspections fail due to items non compliant with the government’s standards. To make sure you pass your inspection, view the pre-inspection checklist according to the Victoria Building Authority’s standards for your pool:
Checklist for pools installed before 8 April 1991
Checklist for pools installed between 8 April 1991 and 30 April 2010
Checklist for pools installed from 1 May 2010
Under the Victorian law, the due date for lodging your certificate of compliance depends on the age of your pool/spa safety barrier.
| Date of construction | Due date |
| Before 30 June 1994 | 1 June 2021 |
| July 1994 – 1 May 2010 | 1 June 2022 |
| 1 May 2010 – 31 May 2020 | 1 June 2023 |
| After 1 June 2020 | Within 30 days of occupancy permit/ certificate of final inspection |
Fines of up to $1652.20 may apply to owners who fail to provide a certificate of compliance by the due date.
New Pool Safety Laws
As of 1 December 2019, it will be mandatory to have your swimming pool or spa registered and compliant with the new laws.
It is recommended that you have your pool and spa safety barriers inspected by a registered building surveyor or registered Building Inspector every three years to ensure that the barriers comply with the regulations and do not pose a safety risk to young children.
Residential Pools
All swimming pools and spas with a depth greater than 300 mm (30 cm) must have a compliant safety barrier.
Renting
A Property With A Pool
It is the home-owner’s responsibility to install the safety barrier. Contact the owner or their agent to request that a safety barrier be installed as a matter of urgency.
As the occupier of the house, you are responsible for ensuring that the barrier is operating effectively at all times.
Buying
A Property With A Pool
As the new owner, you are responsible for ensuring that a compliant safety barrier is in place. You will need to obtain a building permit and either engage a registered builder to install a barrier that meets the current barrier regulations and standards or become an owner-builder.
Make sure your pool is compliant
Book an inspection & certification
Questions? 03 8743 1871
