In Victoria, ensuring your pool or spa complies with safety regulations is legally required to prevent barrier-related issues. Under the Building Regulations 2018 and the Building Act 1993, all private pool and spa owners must register their barriers and have them inspected every four years.
These inspections focus on critical safety aspects such as fence height, gate operation, and the surrounding area’s compliance. Failing to meet the standards can result in non-compliance notices and safety issues.
This article outlines the pool inspection checklist used by inspectors and offers practical tips to help you pass your next inspection with ease.
Why Pool Inspections Matter?
Drowning is a leading cause among children under five in Victoria. Most of these issues occur in private backyard pools, often due to inadequate or faulty barriers.
To prevent such incidents, state regulations mandate that homeowners register their pool or spa and obtain a Certificate of Compliance (Form 23) once the pool or spa barrier passes inspection. This process involves regular pool compliance inspections in Melbourne, conducted by licensed professionals or authorised inspectors.
When Does Your Pool Need An Inspection?
Barrier inspections are required periodically, depending on when your pool or spa was constructed:
- Pre-1994 Pools: Subject to older barrier regulations
- 1994–2010 Pools: Must meet intermediate safety standards
- Post-2010 Pools: Must comply with current Victorian laws
Homeowners must lodge a certificate of pool barrier compliance with their local council every four years. If you’re selling your property, a valid certificate may also be needed during the settlement process.
Pool Inspector Checklist For Barrier Inspection
A certified pool inspector will assess whether your pool or spa area complies with Victorian Building Authority (VBA) safety standards. Here’s what’s typically reviewed during swimming pool inspections:
1. Pool Barrier Height
- Fencing must be at least 1.2 metres high from the ground level.
- Nearby objects (e.g. pot plants, garden beds, outdoor furniture) must not reduce the effective height of the barrier.
2. Pool Gate Operation
- Gates must self-close and self-latch from any position.
- The gate must open outward, away from the pool.
- Latches must be positioned at least 1.5 metres above ground level.
3. Gaps in the Barrier
- Vertical gaps between bars must be less than 100mm.
- Gaps under the fence must also be under 100mm to prevent children from crawling underneath.
4. Climbable Zones
- Inspectors check for climbable objects within 900mm of the pool barrier, including:
- Furniture
- BBQs
- Planters
- Tree branches or retaining walls
5. Boundary Fences Used as Barriers
- If a boundary fence forms part of the barrier, it must be at least 1.8 metres high.
- There must be no footholds, ledges, or other climbable elements on either side of the fence.
Common Reasons for Pool Barrier Inspection Failure
Even minor issues can result in non-compliance. Common failures include:
- The pool gates are not self-latching or closing slowly
- Climbable items placed too close to the fence
- Gates are propped open with cords, rocks, or wedges
- Rusted or damaged fence components
- Incorrect gap measurements or poorly installed fencing
Being aware of these pitfalls can help you avoid costly re-inspections.
How to Prepare for a Successful Pool Inspection?
To improve your chances of passing the inspection on the first visit:
- Maintain Your Barrier: Check latches, hinges, and fence integrity regularly
- Remove Climbable Objects: Clear anything within 900mm of the barrier
- Measure Accurately: Use a measuring tape to confirm heights and gaps
- Repair Damages: Replace rusted, broken, or unstable sections
Stay Up to Date: Keep informed about changes to Victorian pool safety standards
What Happens If Your Pool Fails the Inspection?
If your pool barrier is found non-compliant, the inspector will issue a detailed report outlining the issues. You will be given time to make the necessary repairs before arranging a re-inspection.
Failure to comply within the given timeframe can lead to fines or enforcement action from your local council.
Why Trust Bayside Peninsula Pool Compliance for Pool Inspection?
At Bayside Peninsula Pool Compliance, you can rely on our inspector Leigh, a fully licensed and experienced pool safety inspector with comprehensive knowledge of Victoria’s pool safety regulations. Leigh conducts detailed on-site assessments, helping homeowners identify and resolve compliance issues with clarity and confidence.
Clients benefit from a range of value-added services, including fast digital reports—compliance certificates delivered within 24 hours, ensuring you stay on schedule. If your pool doesn’t meet the standards during the first visit, Leigh offers a free re-inspection once the necessary adjustments are made. His expert advice is clear, honest, and easy to follow, making it simpler for you to understand what needs fixing and how to do it. For those unsure about local regulations or dealing with expired compliance certificates, Leigh also provides personalised guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Whether you’re preparing for your first inspection or your certificate is about to expire, Bayside Peninsula Pool Compliance offers the professional support needed to achieve compliance efficiently.
Book your swimming pool barrier inspection for just $250 (including GST) — valid until 31st May 2025!