If you own a pool or spa in Stirling, your pool fence must be compliant with the Swimming Pool Regulations. These are enforceable under the entry power contained within the Building Act. This means that pool inspectors are legally able to enter your property and inspect the safety of your barrier at least once every year.
Pool fencing must be completely around your pool melbourne pool fence inspections and there can’t be any gaps greater than 100mm. There also needs to be no potential footholds or hand holds within the 900mm ‘non-climbable zone’ on your barrier (this includes BBQs, trees, shrubs, chairs, ladders and other garden items). Your gate must swing away from the pool area, open freely and shut and latch on its own without any momentum being used. And, if your house forms part of the pool barrier, you must have an appropriate warning sign with details of CPR procedures nearby that’s clearly visible from a distance.
Your pool fence will be checked for any cracks that are bigger than a hairline, sagging or discolouration and the height of the slats and bars (depending on the type of barrier you have). They must be 900mm high or less to prevent children from climbing over them. And if your gate has a peephole or a window which opens, it must have a locking device that can be accessed with a key.
Other things the inspector will look at are the pool decking, which is the hard surface surrounding your pool. It must be a non-slip material that doesn’t have any structural issues or cracking. Drainage will be looked at too – to make sure it’s effective and the water is directed away from your pool, rather than back into the pool or towards the house. The coping is the edge of your pool, which can be made from brick, pre-made stone or concrete pavers. The inspector will check that it’s not eroding or cracked and that the gutters are positioned properly so rainwater doesn’t drip into your pool often.
Finally, if you’re having any work done on your pool or its barriers, like a repainting job or new gates, it’s a good idea to have it finished before the day of your inspection. This will save you time and money, plus it’ll ensure your pool is safe and compliant for when it’s used.
While pool inspections aren’t mandatory, they can save you a lot of money in the long run by highlighting any problems that need to be addressed. It’s a great way to make sure that you and your family have a safe and enjoyable summer! So, if you’re due for an inspection this season, contact us at The BrickKicker to book one in now.