At Chordline Barrier Inspections, we aim to guide you through the compliance process with the least amount of fuss and in the most cost effective way. Being prepared for an inspection is most definitely one way the pool owner can assist in making the process smooth.
Data collected from the preceding 12 months indicates the vast majority of pool and spa barriers inspected do not pass on their first inspection (around >95%). Why is this the case? There are a number of reasons this is happening, firstly the age of the pool has a significant part to play as some haven’t been inspected for 40+ years, as does the level of maintenance to the structure over that time. Another is the fact that these pool standards have not been a common feature for Victorian pool owners to deal with before and the content of the Australian Standards are not yet common knowledge. The last time an inspection was previously required on the majority of these pools was at the end of initial construction!
The Right Advice is Essential!
The importance of getting the right advice is essential. Victoria has 5 different standards that a pool can be assessed against, each one slightly different. This means something that may be compliant on your neighbour’s pool barrier, may not be permitted on your pool barrier and vice versa. Common examples where these difference arise are around boundary fences, clear space requirements, and pool access via doors from a building just to name a few. Don’t rely on uneducated advice to confirm your compliance.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your inspection.
- 1. The Council Letter
The council letter is an important part of the inspection process as it will define the starting point of the standard your barrier is assessed against. To provide the correct advice the assessor or Inspector will require a copy to confirm what the applicable standard is. Each council will display this information slightly different.
- 2. Relocate items close to the fence
Furniture and objects such as pot plants, bench seats, pool equipment are common items we see too close to or contained within the required clear space. Ensuring they are able to be relocated prior to the inspection will avoid any non compliance.
- 3. Garden Maintenance
Over time, gardens grow. What was once a compliant tree or shrub has now become a significant climbing hazard located within the required clear space. Before you pull out the chainsaw, talk to us about what needs to be done as not all trees and shrubs need to be removed, only parts that provide for foot or hand holds.
- 4. Gate Maintenance
The gate is effectively the ‘moving parts’ of a barrier fence, and are a very common non compliant item. It is also the number one way children have been able to gain unsupervised access to the pool area. Gates have a very specific check to achieve compliance. They must close from any position, from a standing start and latch. Bouncing and then latching is not permitted. Over time footings move and gates hinges wear, call us for advice and direction if your gate is needs some attention.
5. Self Assessment
There are a number of resources available on our website and we continue to add and update to these. A simple checklist review will assist with the general compliance and help educate the owner with what is contained in the Australian Standards. They are by no means exhaustive but will provide some general guidance on compliance. Click here to see the VBA checklists.
For the right advice, service and guidance, without obligation, contact us on 0409254681 or info@chordline.com.au
