Selling a house with a pool this spring

Selling a house with a pool in spring puts your backyard at its peak. The garden is green and buyers are picturing summer. The smartest move is to list with a valid pool safety certificate already in hand. It shows buyers the pool is compliant, and it keeps the pool off the negotiating table.

Rob spent 20 years building pool fences before he became a QBCC licensed pool safety inspector. He knows exactly what it takes to pass, and what buyers notice first.

Do I need a pool safety certificate to sell my house in QLD?

No, but it is the stronger way to sell. You can sell with a pool safety certificate (Form 23), or give the buyer a notice of no pool safety certificate (Form 36) before the contract is signed. With a Form 36, the buyer has 90 days after settlement to get a certificate, at their own cost.

Why sell with a pool safety certificate?

A certificate answers the buyer’s question before they ask it. A Form 36 tells them there is work to price. That cost often comes up in the negotiation. A fence that works and looks well kept helps buyers see the value in your asking price. Certify before you list and the pool becomes a selling point.

What does Rob check at a pool safety inspection?

Rob checks your pool against 100+ safety points in the QLD pool safety laws. The main areas are:

• The fence. At least 1200mm high, with no gap over 100mm. Posts and panels must be solid.
• The gate. It must open away from the pool, then self-close and self-latch from any position.
• The non-climbable zone. A 900mm space around the barrier, clear of pots, chairs and branches.
• Windows and doors. Windows opening into the pool area are restricted to open less than 100mm, or security screened.
• The CPR sign. Current, and visible from the pool area.

For the full list, read the guide to QLD pool safety laws.

How do I get my pool ready for spring selling?

Walk the fence line first. Test the gate from every position and make sure it latches on its own. Clear pots, furniture and toys from the fence. Trim plants back from the barrier. Check the ground under the fence after winter rain. Then run through our pool safety checklist before you book.

How long does a pool safety certificate take?

Rob is usually able to inspect within 24 hours of your call. If your pool is compliant, your certificate is delivered the same day. We register your pool with the QBCC at no extra cost. It lasts 2 years for a house or townhouse, which covers your sale and the settlement period.

What if my pool fails before I list?

You get a Form 26 non-conformity notice and a clear report with photos of each fault. The re-inspection must happen within 3 months, and it costs from $79 + GST. Rob can do minor repairs himself, like a hinge, a latch or a short section of fence. Bigger work is quoted upfront, so you know the cost before you list.

Not ready for an inspection? Book a pool safety consultation. Rob shows you where your pool stands, then you book the inspection when you are ready.

What does it cost?

A pool safety inspection is from $100 + GST per pool. The QBCC certificate fee (Form 23) is $47.30, with no GST. See the full pool safety certificate cost before you book.

Book your spring inspection with Rob

List with the certificate in hand and sell with confidence. Call Rob on 0457 445 197 or book your pool safety certificate online. Selling soon? Read how to keep your pool certificate from delaying settlement.