Does the owner need to be home for the inspection?

No. The owner does not need to be present during the inspection.

However, if a window or door forms part of the pool or spa barrier, we will need access inside the building to inspect those areas for compliance.

How long does a pool or spa barrier inspection take?

Most inspections take approximately 15–30 minutes. The time required can vary depending on the size, layout and complexity of the pool or spa barrier.

What happens if my pool barrier doesn’t comply?

If we identify non-compliant items, we will provide you with an itemised list of the issues, along with practical suggestions to help you bring the barrier into compliance.

How long do I have to fix non-compliant items?

Generally, you will be given up to 60 days to rectify the identified non-compliant items and have the barrier reinspected.

If compliance cannot be achieved within the required timeframe, a Certificate of Barrier Non-Compliance (Form 24) may need to be issued. This is then lodged with council, which may take further action, including notices, orders or penalties.

Who submits the Certificate of Barrier Compliance to Council?

The property owner is responsible for submitting the Certificate of Barrier Compliance to the relevant council.

How long do I have to submit my Certificate of Barrier Compliance?

The Certificate of Barrier Compliance must be lodged with council within 30 days of the date it is issued.

What Australian Standard applies to my pool or spa?

The applicable barrier requirements depend on when your pool or spa was constructed and the building approval or permit that applied at the time.

Your council registration letter will identify the applicable standard or requirements for your pool or spa. We inspect the barrier against the requirements specified by council.

Can I make changes to my pool barrier before the inspection?

You can carry out maintenance to ensure your barrier is operating correctly. In particular, make sure your pool gate self-closes and self-latches from all positions, including when the gate is resting against the latch or is opened slightly.

For any major alterations or changes to the barrier, we recommend contacting us before commencing work. Changes can have implications for compliance and may require a building permit.

Can you tell me if my barrier is likely to comply before the inspection?

We can provide some guidance before your formal inspection.

You can send us photos of areas you're concerned about, or you can book our 15–20 minute pre-inspection video consultation for $70.00.

Please remember that advice provided from photos or by video is general guidance only and is not a formal inspection.

Can I send you photos of my pool barrier?

Yes, if you have a particular area you're concerned about, send us a photo and let us know what you're unsure about.

Photos can help us provide some preliminary guidance and identify areas that may need closer attention during the formal inspection.

What is the $70.00 video consultation?

Our $70.00 pre-inspection video consultation is a 15–20 minute video call where you can show us your pool or spa barrier and discuss any concerns you may have.

It can be a useful way to get some guidance before making changes or booking your formal inspection.

Please note: A video consultation is not a formal inspection and we cannot guarantee that all non-compliant items will be identified during the consultation.

Can I do a self-assessment before booking an inspection?

Yes. The Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) provides three self-assessment checklists for pool and spa safety barriers.

The appropriate checklist depends on when your pool or spa was constructed.

We encourage you to use the relevant checklist as a useful pre-inspection guide. However, a self-assessment does not replace a formal inspection or guarantee that your barrier will comply.

What if I’m unsure whether my pool or spa is registered?

You can contact your local council to confirm whether your pool or spa is registered and to obtain information about your registration details and inspection due date.

What happens if I’ve missed my council inspection due date?

If you have missed your due date, we recommend contacting your local Council in writing as soon as possible to explain your circumstances.

Depending on your circumstances, council may be able to consider an extension or other appropriate action. You should not assume that an extension has been granted until council confirms this to you.

You may also be subject to an infringement notice or other enforcement action if you fail to meet your obligations.

Do you inspect pool equipment?

No. Our pool and spa barrier inspection does not include pool equipment such as pumps, filters, heaters or other equipment.

Our focus is on the safety barrier and applicable climb zones.

How often does my pool barrier need to be inspected?

Pool and spa safety barriers generally need to be inspected and certified every four years.

Council will notify you of the date by which your next Certificate of Barrier Compliance needs to be lodged.

What happens after my barrier passes?

Once your barrier has been confirmed as compliant, we will issue a Form 23 – Certificate of Barrier Compliance.

The owner must then lodge the certificate with Council within 30 days.

Your council will confirm when your next certificate is due, which is generally another four years later.

Still Have Questions?

If you're unsure about your pool or spa barrier, get in touch with Grampians Pool and Spa Inspections.

We're happy to discuss your concerns, look at photos or explain how our pre-inspection video consultation can help you prepare for your formal inspection.