You may have a number of questions about the pool safety regulations or our service. Hopefully this will provide a few answers. If it doesn’t answer your question let us know by email or phone and we will add it to the list.
Q. Prices for Pool Safety Inspections seem to vary a lot. How can I tell what is value?
In a world of ‘you get what you pay for’ be mindful that the outcome should be a safe pool, not just the cheapest deal. We believe that we are moderately priced for the exceptional service that we endeavour to deliver from the moment you speak to us on the phone to the after sale service stage. Have a chat with us and decide for yourself.
Q. If minor things need doing will you let me do them while you are there so that I pass?
Yes. Our goal is for you to pass on the first inspection, so if there are any small jobs that need doing to allow you to pass, wherever possible, we are happy for you to attend to them while we are there so that you comply with the pool safety regulations. Common things are pot plants, chairs, tables, BBQ’s that need moving further away or a few branches may need trimming.
Q. Why should I use the Checklist – isn’t that your job?
Our job is to ascertain whether your pool is compliant with the pool safety regulations or not and report the outcome accordingly. We want to assist you in being compliant on the first inspection to minimize the associated costs to you. We strongly believe that using the Checklist prior to an inspection greatly increases your chances of passing the first time. Now that has to be a good thing!
Q. When will I get my certificate?
When we complete a Pool Safety Inspection it is a requirement for us to provide you with either a Pool Safety Certificate or a Nonconformity Notice within 2 business days depending on the inspection outcome.
Q. If a Nonconformity Notice is issued how long do I have to fix it?
You have 90 days from the date of the Nonconformity Notice. You need to be aware that if you do not call us back within 90 days to re-inspect, we are then obligated to forward a copy of the Nonconformity Notice to the local authorities. And we don’t want to do that.
Q. How will I know what to fix?
We detail on the Nonconformity Notice, in easy to understand language, what the problem is and how to fix it. In addition to that we provide a map identifying the problem areas so you know where to look. We also attach a report with photos and point to the problem spots and again draw your attention to the problem and suggestions on how to remedy it. And don’t forget, if you have any problems understanding what we mean we are only a phone call away.
Q. Why should I pay a re-inspection fee if my pool doesn’t pass on the first inspection?
We could raise our fees to include the associated costs of returning to your property but we don’t want to as it would mean that if you pass on the first inspection you would be paying more than you need to. And we don’t think that’s right. Not only that, if we do all of the repairs we do not charge a re-inspection fee.
Q. I think my pool is going to fail – what should I do?
Phone us. We are here to help. We may not be able to solve all things over the phone but we will certainly try. We are also happy to look at photos of problem spots beforehand to see if we can find a solution. Like we said, we want to do what we can to assist you in being compliant on the first inspection.
Q. I have a self closing door from my house, is this still OK?
If it is an outdoor pool it will not comply with current pool safety regulations. Child resistant doorsets are only allowable for indoor pools. For outdoor pools a barrier must be in place between the building and the pool.
Q. Does a spa pool need to be fenced?
Under the pool safety regulations, to comply with current standards, spa pools and above ground pools need to be fenced if they are less than 1200mm high, and/or have horizontal members and/or foot holds that a child could climb. Fencing must comply with the pool safety standards. If the spa pool or above ground pool is 1200mm or more in height and does not have horizontal members or foot holds, it is likely that only the step area needs to be fenced and gated. Regardless whether the steps are removable or not, there must be a designated area for entry compliant with the pool safety regulations.
Q. Do I have to have a pool safety certificate by 30 November 2015 if I am not selling or leasing?
No but you do need to ensure that your pool is compliant with today’s pool safety regulations. From now on council may inspect your pool to determine whether it is compliant or not. Our recommendation is to have a pool safety certificate in place so that you can show that your pool is compliant but it is not a government requirement.