Pool Barrier Inspections for Buyers and Sellers

No surprises for buyers

Before you buy, it pays to know whether the pool or spa is registered, when the next certificate is due and whether the barrier is likely to pass. Contact the relevant council to check registration. Our inspection then tells you exactly how the barrier measures up against its applicable standard, so you can plan ahead.

Here is what you will find out before you sign.

• Whether the pool or spa is registered with council
• When the next certificate of barrier compliance is due to be lodged with council
• Which barrier standard applies, based on the date of construction council has recorded for the pool
• Any issues to fix, with practical advice on fixing them

If the barrier needs work, you will know before you sign, giving you time to get quotes and factor costs in. Once you own the property, the obligations are yours, and a failed barrier may need fixing within 60 days.

Confidence for sellers

If you are selling, a barrier inspection before you list helps you find and fix problems on your own terms, rather than under pressure from a buyer during negotiations.

Small issues such as a sagging gate, a low latch or a pot plant next to the fence are cheap and quick to fix before marketing begins. If your barrier complies, we can issue a certificate of barrier compliance (Form 23) for you to lodge with council within 30 days. That gives buyers confidence and shows the property has been well looked after.

If the barrier doesn’t comply, we explain exactly what to fix. Once the work is done, we can re-inspect and issue your certificate, so you can list with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises.

Your conveyancer can advise on how barrier compliance fits into your contract of sale and your obligations as a vendor. We focus on the barrier itself, so you have the facts you need.

What the inspection covers

A pre-purchase or pre-sale inspection follows the same methodical process as a compliance inspection. Every item is checked against the right standard.

• Fence height from the approach side
• Gaps under the fence and between vertical palings, balusters or other members, measured along the whole barrier
• Gates that swing away, self-close and self-latch
• Latch heights and shielding on every gate in the barrier
• Climbable objects, garden beds, retaining walls and trees nearby
• Doors and windows opening into the pool area

We talk you through what we find on site and explain which issues are simple to fix and which may need a trade or a building permit, so you can ask the right questions before you commit.

If there is also a spa, hot tub or relocatable pool on the property, we check that barrier on the same visit, so you get a complete picture.

Timing, access and fees

Sales move quickly, and we understand that. Bookings are often available the next day, including Saturdays, and we arrive at the agreed time.

If you are buying, you will need the owner’s or agent’s permission to access the property. We are happy to coordinate with the selling agent to arrange a suitable time, and to work around open homes and auction dates.

Call as early as you can, especially if an auction date, cooling-off period or settlement is approaching. The more notice we have, the easier it is to fit you in.

Our pricing is competitive, and most prices are matched or beaten. Discounts are available for emergency services and healthcare workers, and for group bookings.