The Queensland Government has introduced new pool safety laws that that amend the Building Act 1975 (Qld).
The laws affect both new and existing pools and have significant impact on sellers, buyers, landlords, tenants and real estate agents.
All pools must comply with the new pool safety rules by 30 November 2015 (or earlier if they have been sold or rented before that date). However, should the property be sold or rented, pool owners, property buyers and real estate agents must ensure that a pool safety certificate is obtained before selling or leasing the property.
Information on pool safety certificates
Pool safety certificates are valid for one year for shared pools and two years for non-shared pools. Owners must arrange a new pool safety certificate before the expiry of the existing certificate.
Pool owners seeking a pool safety certificate will need to contact a licenced swimming pool safety inspector to arrange an inspection.
Pool owners now have until 4 November 2011 to register their swimming pools on the State Government’s pool register after a six month amnesty was granted by the State Government due to the devastation of the January floods and Cyclone Yasi.
All pools in Queensland must be registered and penalties of up to $2,000 will apply after the November deadline.
The register was established on 1 December 2010, and provides residents, local governments, pool safety inspectors, and the Pool Safety Council with a central source of information about regulated pools.
If you have any questions about pool safety standards and how it may affect you, please contact a solicitor from Affinity Lawyers to discuss.
