Free Checklists to Check Your Own Pool Barrier

Each checklist walks you through the barrier one part at a time, with simple yes or no questions and helpful diagrams. Set aside half an hour, grab a tape measure and work through it in order from start to finish.

• Start by identifying your barrier type, such as fence, wall or pool wall
• Check the fencing for height, gaps, mesh and any climbable rails along its full length
• Check every gate for swing direction, self-closing and self-latching operation
• Check any doors and windows that form part of your barrier, where they apply to your pool
• Finish with the strength and rigidity push test described in the checklist

Measure from finished ground level on the approach side, which is the outside of the barrier, and check the full length of the fence rather than one spot.

Some items fail far more often than others, so give these extra attention when you work through your checklist at home.

• Gates must swing away from the pool, close by themselves from any open position and latch automatically every time without a push
• Latch releases are generally at least 1500mm above ground, or shielded from outside
• Fences are generally at least 1200mm high, measured from finished ground level on the approach side of the barrier
• Gaps under the fence and between vertical members are generally no more than 100mm
• No furniture, pot plants, barbecues or other climbable objects near the barrier
• Doors and windows in the barrier can’t give a child a path into the pool area

Follow the exact figures in your checklist for your pool’s age.

If you answer no to any question, the BPC recommends repairing the issue as soon as possible, or getting advice from a building surveyor if you are unsure. If you answer yes but want more certainty, professional advice is still worthwhile. The BPC is clear that its checklists are not exhaustive and do not amount to legal compliance.

Many problems are simple to fix. Adjust or replace a gate closer, raise a latch, move furniture or trim plants. Others, such as a fence that is too low or a door that opens into the pool area, may need more substantial work and possibly a building permit.

That’s where we can help. A consultation or inspection gives you a clear answer on what needs to change and the most cost-effective way to do it.

We help you achieve compliance, not just tell you whether your barrier passes or fails.

The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) now trades as the Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC). You may still see VBA branding on older copies of the checklists, including those on our previous website and on many council pages.

The checklists remain the BPC’s current self-assessment guides, and the BPC website is always the best place to find and download the latest versions.

The checklists also cover spas, hot tubs and relocatable pools that can hold more than 30cm of water. For a relocatable pool or spa, the date of construction is the day it was most recently set up on your property.

Our inspectors are licensed by the BPC as Registered Building Inspectors and are certified and experienced in pool and spa barrier compliance.