What is an NCZ ?

In Victoria, the Building Regulations 2018 outline specific requirements for the NCZ as part of pool barrier standards. The NCZ is a designated area around the pool barrier where no objects or structures that could facilitate climbing are permitted. This is to ensure the effectiveness of the pool barrier in preventing unauthorized access to the pool area.

The following are the general NCZ requirements for pool barriers in Victoria:

1. The NCZ extends 900mm horizontally from the top of the barrier, both internally (towards the pool) and externally (away from the pool).

2. No objects, furniture, trees, shrubs, or any other structures that could be climbed upon should be located within the NCZ. This includes things like chairs, tables, pot plants, barbecue grills, or any other potential climbing aids.

3. The NCZ should be maintained and kept clear at all times to prevent the creation of footholds or opportunities for climbing.

These NCZ requirements are in addition to other pool barrier standards such as fence height, gate requirements, and overall barrier construction specifications.

Please note that pool barrier standards and regulations may change over time, and it is always advisable to consult the most current regulations provided by your local council or the relevant regulatory authority responsible for building and pool safety in Victoria (VBA) to ensure compliance with the latest requirements. You can also go to our Checklist page to download the checklist that is correct for the age and standard of your pool/spa. Alternatively you can give us a call at Vic Pool Inspectors on 0422076550 / 0407817714 and we can answer all your questions.

I need to replace my current barrier. Do I need a building permit?

In Victoria, you generally need a building permit to replace an existing pool barrier, regardless of the type of barrier you have.

The Building Regulations 2018 (Victorian Building Authority) require all swimming pool and spa safety barriers to comply with the current safety standards set out in the regulations. Therefore, if you plan to replace your current pool barrier, you must ensure that the new barrier meets the current safety standards and complies with the Building Regulations.

To obtain a building permit for your new pool barrier, you will need to engage a registered building surveyor or a building inspector who can assess the proposed works and issue the necessary permits. They will inspect the site, ensure that the new barrier meets all relevant safety requirements, and issue a building permit if everything is in order.

It is important to note that failing to obtain a building permit for your pool barrier replacement can result in significant fines and penalties, and in severe cases, the forced removal of the non-compliant barrier. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that you obtain the necessary permits before proceeding with any work on your pool or spa barrier.

Our VPI team is ready to help you schedule an appointment at your convenience, so please don't hesitate to contact us. 0422076550 / 0407817714

Can I have a door leading from my house into the pool?

Pool safety barriers installed from 1 May 2010 must not provide direct access from any building, such as a house or garage, into an outdoor pool area. 

For all swimming pools and spas constructed before 1 May 2010, or for which a building approval or building permit was issued before that date, a door that forms part of the safety barrier must be child-resistant, self-latching and self-closing. The device must be located at a minimum height of 1500mm above the floor level.

In the case of screen doors, it is recommended that these be of solid construction with a securely fitted mesh screen. The door must be kept closed and latched at all times, except when a person is using the door to enter or leave the pool area.

Our VPI team is ready to help you schedule an appointment at your convenience, so please don't hesitate to contact us. 0422076550 / 0407817714

Your Quick Guide on Selling a Home With a Pool

If you own a house with a pool in Australia and are planning to sell, it’s only normal to start wondering what the process entails, especially since regulations have changed in the last few years. Does the pool need pool barrier safety compliance before selling? Will the pool increase your property's value? What are the government requirements when it comes to selling properties with pools? 

We will discuss the answers to these questions in this blog post. We will also go over some of the factors that determine whether a pool increases the value of a house, what to expect when dealing with buyers, and provide tips for selling a house with a pool.

Does Having a Property With a Pool Add Value?

Firstly, it is important to note that having a pool can be a great selling point for your property, especially in Melbourne's warm climate. Pools have so much to offer a household when it comes to relaxation, recreation and exercise. They can also make your property stand out in the real estate market, giving you an edge over other properties without a pool.

However, having a pool doesn’t always guarantee an increase in your property's value. If your property is located in an area where most homes have a pool, having one will probably not add much value to your home. Additionally, the size, style, and quality of the pool also play a crucial role in determining its value. A modern and well-maintained pool that complements your property's overall aesthetic can add significant value to your property. On the other hand, an outdated-looking or poorly-maintained pool can decrease the home’s value.

Selling Your Home & Pool Barrier Safety Compliance

If you’re considering selling your home and it has a pool, you should be prepared to receive several questions from potential buyers regarding the safety compliance status of your pool area. Therefore, getting your pool inspected and obtaining a certificate of compliance before showing off your property is the best thing to do. 

According to the Victorian Building Authority, every pool or spa owner needs to do the following:

• Register the pool with their local council.

• Obtain an inspection of the pool barrier by a registered swimming pool inspector.

• Correct any safety hazards identified during the inspection.

• Submit a certificate of compliance to the local council by the due date.

A pool inspection can help identify any issues that need to be addressed before listing the property. Fixing any problems in advance can help the property sell faster and potentially at a higher price. Moreover, providing a certificate of compliance can give buyers peace of mind in knowing that the pool is in good condition. This will make the sale process run more smoothly.

To sum up, property owners with pools or spas should get in touch with their local council for more insights on the registration and certification process in their area. 

Tips on Selling a Home With a Pool

There are several things you can do to maximize a house’s value if it has a pool, such as: 

Keep the pool in top condition

A properly-maintained pool can significantly increase a home’s value. Things like ensuring the pool is clean and properly balanced are a must. Fix any leaks, cracks, gaps in the pool fence and gate, or other issues before putting your property on the market. Also, make sure that the pool equipment, such as pumps, filters and heaters, are in working order.

Make improvements to the pool area

Aside from being functional and safe, a pool area should also be visually appealing. You can enhance the area by adding extra features such as outdoor lighting, landscaping, shade structures, seating areas, a bar, and even a grill. Additionally, make sure that the pool area is safe, especially for families with children, by installing pool barriers, fencing, and safety gates.

Showcase the pool in your property's marketing materials

When advertising your property, make sure to use your pool as a selling point. Use high-quality photos and videos of the pool area in your online listings and social media posts, and be sure to highlight safety compliance. You could also take it a step further and stage the pool area to show how it can be used for relaxation and entertainment.

Price your property appropriately

Consider the value that your pool adds when determining your property’s price overall. You can get a good idea of how much your pool is worth by doing thorough research on the market and finding similar properties with a pool in your area. Consulting with a real estate agent with experience in selling properties with a pool is also a good move to help you price your property appropriately.

Final Thoughts

To sum things up, having a pool on your property can be a valuable asset when selling your home in Australia. However, its value depends on various factors, such as its condition, size, style and quality, safety compliance, as well as the location of your property. By following the tips we share above, you can maximize the value of your pool and attract potential buyers.

If you’re getting ready to sell your home with a pool and are looking for a pool barrier inspection, be sure to check us out! At VIC POOL INSPECTORS, we have the expertise and are backed by the Victorian Building Authority and the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria. We will work with our clients till their pools are 100% in compliance with their local regulations. Click here to set up an inspection today!

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Safeguard Your Family: Debunking 8 Myths of Pool Barrier Safety

Pools are a fantastic addition to any property, but there are pool barrier safety myths out there that keep property owners from doing the right thing and getting their pools inspected for safety compliance. 

A pool in your backyard offers endless hours of enjoyment, exercise, and relaxation. Using a pool responsibly, however, requires strict pool barrier safety. It’s every property owner’s responsibility to ensure that their pool is safe for all those who use it, especially children. That’s why government-enforced regulations are in place to guarantee pool barrier safety compliance.

Unfortunately, there are several misconceptions about pool barrier safety that influence homeowners to skip out on inspections, which can put people of all ages at risk. Below, we will explore and debunk some of the most common pool barrier myths.

Myth #1: Only children need protection from pool hazards.

While children are the ones most likely to run recklessly towards a pool, it is important to remember that anyone can be a victim of a pool-related accident. As a matter of fact, adults and pets are just as likely to drown in a pool as children are. And when it comes to adults, we also have to consider the fact that many social gatherings and parties will take place in backyards with pool areas. This means that it’s highly likely for someone with one too many drinks might try to jump in the pool!

This is why pool barrier safety is essential. A safe and compliant pool barrier that functions properly will help protect everyone who uses the pool, keeping accidents and injuries from happening. 

Myth #2: As long as the pool is supervised, there is no need for barriers.

Relying solely on supervision to prevent pool accidents is definitely not a good idea. Parents and pet owners know all too well that it only takes a few seconds for anyone to get into trouble, especially in a pool. Accidents can happen even when someone is watching. Proper pool barriers, such as fences, gates, and covers, are essential to ensuring the safety of everyone who lives on the property and uses the pool.

Myth #3: Just a pool cover is enough to keep children safe.

Pool covers can help prevent accidental drowning but they are not a foolproof fix when it comes to pool safety. This is one of the big pool barrier safety myths.

Pool covers can become damaged or dislodged, leaving gaps big enough for children or pets to fall through without a clear way to get out. Additionally, pool covers are ineffective at preventing other pool-related accidents, such as falls. This also depends on the material used for the pool cover. Rigid ones tend to be on the safer side, while the vinyl or mesh kinds pose greater risks.

Myth #4: Pool barriers are ugly and detract from the pool's beauty.

While it’s true that some pool barriers can be unattractive eyesores, there are several options available now that can be both effective and aesthetically pleasing. For example, glass fences or fences with decorative elements can enhance the look of the pool while still providing essential safety.

Myth #5: Installing a pool barrier is expensive and not worth it.

The cost of installing a pool barrier may seem elevated, but it’s a small price when it comes to safety compared to the cost of a pool-related accident. Additionally, a pool barrier provides peace of mind to homeowners in knowing that everyone who uses the pool is safe.

Myth #6: If a pool is located in a gated community, there is no need for additional barriers.

Gated communities can provide an additional level of security, but that isn’t an excuse to skip out on a pool barrier installation. In gated communities, there are instances where visitors or guests gain access to the pool area, therefore, safety is paramount. If there were to be an accident, there could be legal problems. Additionally, there may be times when the gate is left open or malfunctions, creating a safety hazard. The bottom line is, a proper pool barrier is necessary, no matter where the pool is located.

Myth #7: There is no need for a pool barrier if a child can swim.

A person’s swimming ability is not a substitute for a properly installed pool barrier. Even the strongest swimmer can become exhausted or disoriented, leading to an accident. Furthermore, children who can swim may become overconfident and take risks that could lead to injury or drowning. Imagine someone miscalculating a jump or accidentally slipping too close to the pool. A proper pool barrier would prevent further damage.

Myth #8: A shallow pool doesn’t need a barrier. 

A shallow pool can be a safety hazard whether you believe it or not, especially for young children who may not be able to stand up or swim to safety. The laws require that any swimming pools or spas capable of holding more than 30 cm of water need pool barriers. This includes permanent pools, above-ground pools, indoor pools, hot tubs, bathing or wading pools and some relocatable pools.

To wrap things up, it’s important to recognise and address the common myths and misunderstandings surrounding pool barrier safety. By doing so, we can guarantee that everyone who uses a pool is safe from accidents. 

If you’re planning on installing a pool on your property or have one already built, then a proper pool barrier safety inspection is the next step. At VIC POOL INSPECTORS, we have the expertise and are backed by the Victorian Building Authority and the Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria. We will work with our clients till their pools are 100% in compliance with their local regulations. Click here to set up an inspection today!

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I have recently installed a cover over my swimming pool or spa. Does it comply with the legislation as a safety barrier?

In Victoria, a pool or spa cover does not comply with the legal requirements for a safety barrier. According to the Building Regulations 2018 (Victorian Building Authority), a safety barrier must be a physical structure or fence that restricts access to the pool or spa area.

While a cover may prevent access to the water, it is not considered a suitable alternative to a safety barrier, as it can be removed or opened, and a child could potentially fall into the pool or spa area.

Therefore, if you have installed a cover over your swimming pool or spa, you are still required to have a physical safety barrier that complies with the building regulations in place.

Our VPI team is ready to help you schedule an appointment at your convenience, so please don't hesitate to contact us. 0422076550 / 0407817714

If I have an above-ground swimming pool or spa, do I need a safety barrier?

If you have an above-ground swimming pool or spa in Victoria, Australia, it is mandatory to have a safety barrier in place as per the Building Regulations 2018 (Victorian Building Authority). The walls of the pool or spa can act as a barrier only if they are at least 1.2 metres high from the ground level, and their surface does not provide a foothold for a child to climb into the pool or spa area.

If the walls of the pool or spa are not at least 1.2 metres in height then the safety barrier must comply with the standards set out in the regulations and include a self-closing and self-latching gate with a minimum height of 1200mm. The primary goal of these safety regulations is to prevent unsupervised access to the pool or spa area, especially by children, as drowning is a leading cause of accidental deaths among young children in Australia.

Non-compliance with these safety requirements can result in significant fines and penalties and, in severe cases, the forced closure of the pool or spa. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that your pool or spa is fully compliant with all relevant safety regulations.

Our VPI team is ready to help you schedule an appointment at your convenience, so please don't hesitate to contact us. 0422076550 / 0407817714

What Standard Do I Use For My Pool/Spa Barrier?

Applicable Barrier Standards

FOR POOLS AND SPAS INSTALLED BEFORE 8 APRIL 1991

RELEVANT STANDARD: PART 9A BUILDING REGULATIONS 2018 AND AS 1926.1-1993

FOR POOLS AND SPAS INSTALLED BETWEEN 8 APRIL 1991 AND 30 APRIL 2010

RELEVANT STANDARDS: AS 1926.1 – 1986 (FOR BARRIERS APPROVED FROM 8 APRIL 1991 TO 31 OCTOBER 1994) OR

AS 1926.1 – 1993 (FOR BARRIERS APPROVED FROM 1 NOVEMBER 1994 TO 30 APRIL 2010)

FOR POOLS AND SPAS INSTALLED FROM 1 MAY 2010

RELEVANT STANDARDS: AS 1926.1 - 2007 (FOR BARRIER BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED FROM 1 MAY 2010 TO 30 APRIL 2013) OR

AS 1926.1 - 2012 (FOR BARRIER BUILDING PERMITS ISSUED FROM 1 MAY 2013 OR BARRIER NOT REQUIRING A BUILDING PERMIT FROM DEC 2019)

To make your life easier we have 3 self assessment checklists for all these standards set out by the VBA. Follow the link below to access the checklist right for you.

Points to take away!!

The due date for your 'Certificate of Compliance' is related to your pool/spa construction.

The relevant date is:

• Built Prior to 1 July 1994 - Due date is 1 June 2022

• Built From 1 July 1994 to 30 April 2010 - Due date is 1 June 2023

• Built From 1 May 2010 until 31 October 2020 - Due date is 1 June 2024

• Built On or After the 1 November 2020 - Due date is the same date as the Registration

• No later than 30 days after the pool/spa was registered (Relocatable pools/spas only)

Give VIC POOL INSPECTORS a call today to arrange your Pool or Spa Barrier Inspection
Call Us on 0422 076 550 or 0407 817 714

What Type of Pool Fences are There?

1. Glass pool fences

Glass pool fences are a popular choice in Australia as they are compliant with Australian safety standards. Glass pool fences are made from tempered glass, which is a type of glass that is designed to shatter into small pieces if it breaks. This helps to prevent serious injuries if someone were to fall into the fence.

2. Aluminium pool fences

Aluminium pool fences are another popular choice in Australia as they are also compliant with Australian safety standards. Aluminium pool fences are strong and durable, making them ideal for use around pools. They are also available in a variety of designs and colours to suit any home and are cost effective.

3. Perforated material/mesh pool fences

Perforated material/mesh pool fences are a less popular choice in Australia as they are not as compliant with Australian safety standards as they wear quicker than glass or aluminium pool fences. Perforated material/mesh pool fences are made from a rigid mesh-wire, the apertures must not be larger than 12mm.

4. Wooden pool fences

Wooden pool fences are made from pressure-treated wood that is placed around the perimeter of the pool. Wood fences can be stained or painted to match the look of your home. Wood fences are also available in a variety of heights to meet your needs.

Points to take away!!

- All barrier heights should be at least 1200mm high around your pool.

- The gaps between the vertical members should be less than 10cm.

- The gap beneath the barrier and ground should not exceed 100mm

- Any climbable horizontal surface such as hinges, rails, posts, or wires must be 900mm or more            

  apart from each other.

Drowning Prevention Steps

To help keep children safe in and around water, there are four important steps you can follow – to ensure maximum safety, it’s important that all of these steps are used together.

1. Supervise

Active adult supervision of children is essential to reduce the risk of drowning. For toddlers, this means having an adult within arm’s reach at all times when they are in or around water, while for older children it is important there is an adult within the water area who is ready to enter the water in an emergency.

When there are a lot of adults around (e.g. at a BBQ or pool party) it can be easy to assume that someone else is watching the kids, when in fact, nobody is. That’s why it’s a good idea to have designated adult supervisors whose role it is to actively supervise the kids in and around water – this role can be shared throughout the day so that everyone gets a chance to relax and enjoy themselves.

2. Restrict access

Restricting children’s access to water can include placing a barrier around the body of water (e.g. a pool or spa barrier) or placing the barrier around a child’s environment (e.g. creating a fenced safe play area on a farm that is away from water hazards like dams and animal drinking troughs).

Children are crafty and will try their best to find a way to get over, under or through barriers, so it’s important to never rely on barriers on their own to keep children away from water.

3. Water Awareness

Water awareness and learn to swim classes can assist in helping children to become familiar with water, teaching them about water safety and learning how to swim.

4. CPR/First Aid Knowledge

Having the skills to respond in an emergency situation can mean the difference between life and death. Kidsafe Victoria encourages all parents and carers to enrol in a CPR/first aid course and to update their skills regularly. Hopefully they are skills that you will never have to use, however undertaking a course will assist in ensuring you are equipped to respond if an emergency does arise. It is also a good idea to place a CPR chart in your pool or spa area for easy reference.

Get A 10% Discount On Your Pool Barrier Inspection Today!

Pool and spa barriers are an essential part of having your own pool or spa. Not only do they protect the safety of your family, but they also help you adhere to any local regulations for barrier installation and maintenance. With the new year just started, now is the perfect time to get your pool or spa barrier inspected - and Vic Pool Inspectors is offering a special -

10% discount in the month of January! 

What Does an Inspection Involve? 

A pool barrier inspection involves one of our experienced inspectors providing a thorough evaluation of your pool fence. This includes examining the entire area surrounding the pool, examining all gates and latches, assessing all required measurements for your Australian standard and more. The inspector will then provide you with a full report that details any areas of concern or non-compliance with local regulations. 

Why Is It Important To Have An Inspection? 

Having a professional inspect your pool fence can save you time and money in the long run by ensuring everything about it is up to code. This includes not just ensuring that it remains compliant with local regulations but also making sure that it’s properly installed so it can remain secure for years to come. In addition to this, regular inspections every 4 years can ensure that any potential hazards are identified before they become major problems - saving you from costly repairs in the future.  

It’s important to remember that even if you’ve had your pool fence inspected in previous years, it’s still important to have one done every 4 years. Things such as weathering and wear-and-tear can cause degradation over time which could impact its security and compliance with local laws. With Vic Pool Inspectors' 10% discount in January, there's never been a better time to make sure your family's safety is taken care of! Make sure to book now before this offer ends!

Call now on -0422076550  or 0407817714

How to Keep Your Little Ones Safe Around Water

As Australians, we are lucky to have so much access to the water. Whether it’s at the beach, in our backyards, or on the farm – water plays a big part in our lives. While it can be incredibly fun and enjoyable for adults and children alike, it is also important to understand just how quickly drowning can happen. Drowning is one of the most common causes of unintentional death for children under 5 years old in Australia – and toddlers can drown in as little as a few centimetres of water. 

Understanding Dangers Around Water 

It is important to understand that even seemingly harmless objects such as buckets, inflatable/toddler wading pools, backyard ponds and pet drinking bowls can all pose a potential drowning hazard. Additionally, drowning can occur without splashing or screaming – so you may not realise your child has been submerged until it’s too late. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions when around water with young children. 

Tips for Keeping Kids Safe Around Water 

When it comes to keeping kids safe around water there are some simple steps everyone should take: 

1) Never leave children unsupervised near any body of water – even if they know how to swim; 

2) Learn CPR and make sure someone who is around your kids frequently knows CPR as well;  

3) Install appropriate barriers such as pool fences with self-closing gates that are at least 1.2 metres high;  

4) Make sure all toys are put away after use;  

5) Educate your kids about what they should do if they find themselves in danger around water;  

6) Make sure you are familiar with local laws regarding swimming pool safety; and  

7) Make sure you educate your children on how to swim or find a swimming instructor in your area to teach them.

Being able to enjoy being around the water is an amazing part of life here in Australia - but it’s also very important to remember that drowning can occur very quickly if proper precautions aren’t taken. To ensure your little ones remain safe and sound when playing around any body of water, remember the tips listed above! With these simple steps you can feel more confident that your family will enjoy their time by the pool safely!

How to Register Your Pool or Spa with the Council

For those who are lucky enough to own land on which a pool or spa is located, registration with the relevant council is mandatory. In this article, we will take a look at what you need to do in order to register your pool or spa and why it is important. 

What Does Registration Involve? 

Pool and spa registration involves completing a registration form and paying the associated fees. The fee payable may differ according to your local council, so it is important to check their website for more information or contact them directly if you have any queries. Pools and spas constructed before 1 November 2020 also require an additional information search fee. 

Why Register Your Pool or Spa? 

Registration of your pool or spa serves an important purpose - namely, keeping people safe! The relevant council keeps track of all registered pools in the area and regularly inspects them for compliance against state regulations for safety. This includes checking that the fence around the pool meets safety standards. Regular inspections every 4 years mean that family and friends can rest assured that any swimming pools they visit meet minimum safety standards and are safe for use. 

Overall, registering your pool or spa with the relevant council is essential in order ensure its safety as well as adhere to state regulations. This process involves completing a registration form and paying any applicable fees. For customers who own land on which a pool or spa is located, taking these steps can help provide peace of mind that their swimming pool or spa meets minimum standards of safety while also avoiding hefty fines from failing to comply with legal requirements. If you need more information about how to register your pool or spa with your local council, contact them directly or consult their website for further details.

Why You Need a Pool Safety Inspection

If you own a pool in Victoria, Australia, then you need to get it inspected by a certified Vic Pool Inspector. Pool safety is no joke, and failure to comply with the Australian standards can result in some hefty fines. But beyond avoiding a fine, getting a pool safety inspection is important for the safety of you and your family. Here's everything you need to know about why you need a pool safety inspection.

What is a Pool Safety Inspection?

A pool safety inspection is when a certified inspector comes to your property to ensure that your pool is compliant with the Australian Pool Safety Standards. This includes making sure that your pool has the proper barriers in place to prevent young children from gaining access. 

Why Do I Need One?

There are two main reasons why you need a pool safety inspection. The first is to avoid any fines that may be incurred for not being properly registered or inspected. The second reason, and more importantly, is to help keep you and your family safe. 

Drowning is one of the leading causes of death for children under five, so it's important to do everything you can to make sure your pool is safe. A certified inspector will be able to identify any potential hazards and make recommendations for how to fix them.

What Happens if My Pool Fails the Inspection?

If your pool fails the inspection, don't panic! There are usually only a few minor things that need to be fixed in order for it to pass. The inspector will provide you with a report detailing what needs to be fixed in order for your pool to be compliant. Once those items have been addressed, you can schedule a free of charge re-inspection. 

Getting in Touch:

Getting a pool safety inspection is an important part of owning a pool in Victoria, Australia. Not only will it help you avoid any potential fines, but more importantly, it will help keep you and your family safe. If your pool does happen to fail the inspection, don't worry! There are usually only a few minor things that need to be fixed in order for it to pass

Call Us Now ☎︎ at (+61) 0407 817 714 or (+61) 0422 076 550