New swimming pool laws

All properties with a swimming pool or spa pool being sold or leased on or after 29 April 2016 now need a valid certificate of compliance, certificate of non-compliance or a relevant occupation certificate.

A ‘certificate of non-compliance’ will enable the seller to transfer the responsibility to obtain a certificate of compliance to the buyer. This transfer will take effect once a certificate of non-compliance is attached to the contract of sale.

Buyers will have the chance to rectify defects listed in the certificate of non-compliance and obtain a

certificate of compliance.

To find out how the changes for properties sold or leased with swimming pools will affect you, visit https://www.olg.nsw.gov.au/news/116-05-changes-properties-sold-or-leased-swimming-pools for more information.

Research shows that inadequate pool barriers and lack of supervision are the most common contributors to drowning in backyard pools.

The Mayor of Hawkesbury, Councillor Kim Ford said this can include people leaving the gate open, or “pool barriers not being kept in good condition”.

“If you choose to have a pool, then you are responsible for ensuring that your pool barrier is safe and that it complies with current legislation,” Councillor Ford said.

People also need Council approval and a compliant pool barrier for an inflatable, demountable or portable pools that can hold a 300mm depth or higher of water.

Any pool that can be filled with water to a depth of 30cm or more needs a child-resistant barrier. If the capacity of the pool or spa exceeds 2,000 litres then you need approval before you install, fill or use it.

All pool owners are required to register their backyard swimming pools. Visit www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au for more information.