There have been recent changes to the Swimming Pools Act 1992 that not only affect owners of swimming pools but also owners of spas and portable and inflatable swimming pools that hold water any deeper than 300mm.
On 1st May 2013, the swimming pools register was launched. The swimming pools register can be found at www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au.
One important change made to the Swimming Pools Act is that all swimming pool owners are required to register their pool by 29th October, 2013.
From 29th October, 2013, local Councils will begin to carry out routine inspections of pools.
From 29th April 2014, pool owners will have to have a valid Swimming Pool Compliance Certificate before selling or leasing a property with a swimming pool. This will involve having an inspection carried out by a Council Inspector who will then issue a Compliance Certificate if everything is in order. The Certificate will have a validity of 3 years from the date of issue and will incur a fee of $150.00. Should subsequent inspections be required, each subsequent inspection will incur a fee of $100.00.
From 29 October 2013, authorised officers may fine pool owners if their pool is not registered on the NSW Swimming Pool Register. The fine is $220.00. In the event that an inspector refers the matter to court, a fine of up to a maximum of $2,200 may be imposed.
If buying or selling a house you should see your solicitor to make sure the swimming pool for the property complies with the Act.
