Some people prefer to own a new swimming pool by building one. By constructing your own pool, you can have full control of it compared to using public pools. However, when it comes to pool compliance, first-time pool owners may be confused.
The Swimming Pool Regulations/Laws In New South Wales now require pool certification. Swimming pool and spa owners should register their swimming pools online.
Having a certificate of compliance indicates that your pool meets relevant regulations. Engaging an accredited certifier ensures that your pool meets the compliance requirements. You can book a pool inspection by asking your local council or a private certifier in category A1, A2, A3 or E1, accredited by the Building Professionals Board.
Different kinds of pool certifiers
You must first consider what type of certifier you need. There are various kinds of pool inspectors based on different categories. Category A1 certifier can certify all buildings while Category A2 certifier can certify all class 1 and 10. They can also certify class 2-9 but with some restrictions.
Moreover, Category A3 certifier can certify 1 and 10 buildings that meet the requirement of Building Code of Australia. Lastly, Category E1 Certifier can perform inspections. They can also issue a certificate of compliance for your pool.
Some accredited certifiers only issue certificates based on the category which they have been accredited. Accredited certifiers must at all times follow the legal requirements in Australia.
Pool certifier’s responsibilities
Certifiers from categories A1-A3 can check barriers of pools and spas for compliance with the Swimming Pools Act 1992. Here are some of their responsibilities:
1. Inspectors are required to issue a notice and certificate of non-compliance if the pool is non-compliant upon inspection.
2. Category E1 certifiers cannot issue an occupation certificate for a swimming pool.
3. Category A4 certifiers who want to certify swimming pools must also hold E1 accreditation.
Basically, E1 accredited certifiers have different roles compared to other certifiers.
E1 Private Certifier’s Roles
One of the primary roles of private certifiers (Category E1) is to carry out pool safety inspections to ensure that the pool is in accordance with the legislative requirements. Some private certifiers can also perform necessary repair services in order get a compliance certificate for your pool.
To make sure that you chose the best pool inspector in town, there are some qualities of a good pool certifier that you must take into consideration.
What is considered as best pool certifier?
Before choosing a pool inspector, these characteristics of a pool certifier are what pool owners are recomendeded to look for.
Targeted and consistent
A pool certifier must aim to give you an in-depth inspection report for your pool/spa. Moreover, compliance evaluation should be explained clearly to make it clear and concise to the pool owners.
Aside from that, pool inspectors must ensure consistent application of safety barrier rules throughout NSW. They should always follow relevant compliance rules during inspections.
Transparent
If your pool is found to be non-compliant, private certifiers must explain the details and recommend the most efficient and effective methods to fix the compliance issue.
Being transparent in the process, your compliance certificate that can be issued by the private certifier after the repair a lot quicker.
Collaborative
Pool inspectors must collaborate with the pool owners especially when working and sharing compliance information with the house owners. Additionally, a good private certifier should work together with the public to promote awareness of fencing requirements and minimise safety accidents regarding swimming pool because pool safety rather than compliance is the ultimate goal for the inspections and repairs. (Our blog mypoolsafety.com.au/blog is striving to achieve this goal - we are also featuring our educational blog post on other websites to educate the public)
Licenced
Private certifiers who operate in NSW must be accredited by the NSW Building Professionals Board (BPB). Licenced pool certifiers are skilled and experts in their field. They are also knowledgeable enough to give appropriate advices and solutions to your pool problems.
Conclusion
There are many pool certifiers ready to help you with your pool compliance. However, it is important to find the best one, so you can get the value for the money you pay for their services.
Remember that a certified and experienced pool safety inspection company can not only a comprehensive pool inspection but also pool repair services, so you can gain the certificate of compliance and make sure that your swimming pool are safe for your whole family to enjoy!