Pool ownership is both a privilege and a major responsibility. Apart from the regular cleaning and maintenance, homeowners and spa owners must ensure swimming compliance in ACT.

A Canberra pool inspection can help you stay on track regarding safety and compliance. With this documentation in order, you not only meet strict standards set by the ACT government, but can enjoy endless pool usage with all the benefits and peace of mind.

Here is a straightforward guide to help you navigate the process.

Swimming Pool Compliance in ACT: What Does it Entail?

In 2024, the ACT government rolled out new compliance requirements that must be met in full by all pool owners by the year 2028. This means any homes and spas with pools have this time to review their pool safety, make any relevant changes or upgrades and get the necessary ACT pool safety certification.

The new standards for spa and residential pool compliance require pools to meet certain obligations regarding fencing, secure boundaries and obstructions around the pool area. In ACT, a pool compliance certificate is a legal requirement when selling, leasing or purchasing a property with a pool, or when conducting renovations on an existing pool.

3 Steps to ACT Pool Safety Certification

1. Understand the Requirements

Before you call a professional, review the pool barrier safety guidelines in Canberra. Below are some of the key requirements:

• a fence height of at least 1.2 metres
• a self-closing and self-latching gate that opens outwards
• a non-climbable zone of 900mm around the fence
• low-lying windows around the pool area should not open more than 10cm

2. Book a Canberra Pool Inspection with a Qualified Company

In the ACT, a pool compliance certificate must be issued by a private government-authorised certifier. Always choose a reputable certifier who has experience with local regulations.

3. Inspection & Certification

The certifier will schedule a visit to your property to conduct a thorough inspection of your pool barriers and surroundings. They will meticulously check your pool’s safety to ensure everything meets the required standards. Your certificate may be issued on the same day or after a few days and will be valid for four years.

If your pool barriers do not meet the regulations, your inspector will issue a detailed report outlining the specific defects that need to be rectified. You will then have a set period, typically a few weeks, to make the necessary repairs or adjustments before the official certificate is issued.

Make sure your building meets legal and safety obligations, with a professional pool inspection in Canberra.  Contact Arcsite, an authorised ACT swimming pool compliance inspection company under the ACT pool fence regulations.

Before the purchase of an apartment or townhouse in Canberra, a strata building inspection will be a critical part of the pre-purchase due diligence. Unlike a standard building inspection for a detached house, a strata inspection requires a closer look into the health and history of the entire building, not just the individual unit. It’s a key tool for any buyer who wants to meet building compliance standards in Canberra.

Deep Dive into Strata Inspection

FAQ: What is a strata inspection?

A strata inspection is essentially a comprehensive review of the Body Corporate’s records prior to the purchase of a strata unit. Despite its name, there are no physical building inspections. A qualified inspector or a solicitor will visit the strata manager’s office to review available documentation, like financial records, meeting minutes, building reports and insurance policies.

The goal is to uncover any potential issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye. This includes things like pending legal disputes, planned repairs, or inadequate funds to cover future maintenance. It’s a way to get a full picture of the complex’s financial and structural health before ownership documents are signed.

Importance of a Strata Report in the ACT Property Market

Canberra’s property market has many apartment complexes and townhouses, and strata inspections will inevitably play a role in maintaining the integrity of the market. Here’s how:

• Identifying Building Defects: In keeping with building compliance in Canberra, a strata building inspection will be followed by a report that highlights any defects affecting the entire building. This includes waterproofing issues or structural cracks that could lead to costly repairs for all owners. As a building manager, your ACT strata report can be used to formulate a strata maintenance plan.
• Uncovering Hidden Costs: A building inspection in Canberra can identify potential special levies that owners must make to cover unexpected or poorly planned expenses. If major repairs (like a new roof or facade work) are planned, it could leave a new owner with a massive bill after they’ve moved in and a headache for building managers.
• Assessing Financial Health: The inspection provides a clear look at the Body Corporate’s financial management, indicating the available funds, as well as the history of income and expenditure. A financially well-managed strata scheme is a sign of a well-maintained building and a harmonious community.

A Note for Managers

Strata building managers need to be prepared for these inspections at any time, and reliable software can help. With all the relevant documentation in one place and accurate maintenance and financial history records, every inspection will be smooth sailing.

Need to prepare for a strata building inspection in Canberra? Keep all your data safely in one place using Arcsite and enjoy a smooth, compliant inspection with accurate records and on-point reports.