Minister for Local Government Paul Toole announced today that new regulations applying to the sale and lease of properties with swimming pools will take effect from this Friday.
Under the changes, homebuyers of properties with swimming pools will have 90 days from settlement to rectify non-compliant pool barriers.
Mr Toole said the new regulations are aimed at creating an effective pool barrier framework that protects the safety of children around backyard swimming pools.
“From April 29, vendors will need to attach to the contract of sale a Certificate of Compliance or a Certificate of Non-Compliance that outlines what needs to be fixed.
“While there is no substitute for responsible adult supervision around a swimming pool, a compliant pool barrier helps minimise the risk of drowning or near drowning.
“In addition to a public information campaign run in partnership with Royal Life Saving NSW, there has been engagement with the legal and real estate sectors to ensure understanding of the change,” Mr Toole said.
Michael Ilinsky from Royal Life Saving NSW said compliance checks at time of property sale is a positive outcome as it empowers homebuyers and ensures that future pool owners are provided with a compliant swimming pool.
“These regulations will ensure that swimming pool safety is heightened at the critical time a family takes possession of a new home and pool.
“Royal Life Saving strongly suggests those intending to sell a home with a swimming pool should organise a compliance inspection of their swimming pool immediately. This can be completed by council or a private certifier,” Mr Ilinsky said.
More information is available here: www.olg.nsw.gov.au/public/my-home/swimming-pools
