A Pool Safety Certificate is a mandatory requirement for properties in Brisbane, Ipswich, Sunshine Coast, and Gold Coast in Queensland. Only authorised pool inspectors or building inspectors are eligible to issue this certificate. Whether you are renting, leasing, selling, or managing a shared pool, obtaining a pool certificate is essential. The inspection process is conducted by inspectors licensed by the Queensland (QLD) government.
Validity Duration of Pool Safety Certificates in QLD
Commonly referred to as Form 23, a Pool Safety Certificate holds significant importance during property transactions involving pools. According to regulations, certificates for shared pools remain valid for one year, while those for non-shared pools have a validity period of two years. The certification remains in force, unaffected by the property’s re-leasing or re-sale within this period. Elite Pool Inspections can assist in obtaining a Pool Safety Certificate in QLD.
Renewal and Non-Compliance
Upon expiration, property owners need not immediately seek another certificate unless they intend to lease or sell the property. A Non-Compliance Certificate is issued if the pool fails inspections, and compliance must be achieved before a new certificate is issued.
Responsibility for Shared Pools
For shared pools, the body corporate or the designated owner is responsible for obtaining the Pool Safety Certificate, which may also be referred to as Pool Certification. One certificate covers all unit owners, eliminating the need for separate certificates for the same pool facility in Queensland (QLD).
Cancellation and Importance of Certificates
If a certified pool is found to violate safety standards, the local government can cancel the Pool Safety Certificate. In such cases, a new certificate is required when leasing or selling the property.
Certificates of Classification and Building Certificates
Major pool alterations or new pool constructions necessitate a Form 17 issued by a building certifier, serving as a final inspection certificate. This can substitute for a pool fence certificate during property transactions.
Validity and Compliance of Certificates
Certificates of classification and building certificates are valid for one or two years, depending on whether they comply with the current pool safety standard. Non-compliant certificates against older standards require a separate fence certificate.
Notice of No Pool Safety Certificate
In the absence of a Pool Safety Certificate, a fully filled Form 36, Notice of No Pool Safety Certificate, must be provided to the buyer before a sales contract. Compliance with pool safety standards is still mandatory, even with the notice.
Submission of Pool Safety Certificates
Certifiers have up to five business days to submit Pool Safety Certificate details to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission after a successful inspection.
Pool Safety Laws in Queensland (QLD)
A Pool Certificate is a legal requirement in Queensland (QLD), ensuring pool compliance. The inspector cannot refuse a certificate based on a lack of development approval, non-compliance, or fee disputes.
Non-Compliance and Appeals
If non-compliance is identified, a separate Form 26 (non-compliance certificate) is issued, specifying areas of non-compliance. Owners can appeal within 20 business days.
Regular Inspection and Certification
For convenience and business interests, property owners are advised to have their pool inspected and obtain a Pool Certificate every two years. The pool register provides information on certificates and registrations.
