Leasing a property with a pool in Queensland
In Queensland, you must not enter into a lease of a house or townhouse with a non-shared pool unless a pool safety certificate is in effect. For shared pools, the pool owner (usually the body corporate) is responsible, and a Form 36 is lodged if there's no current certificate.
Non-shared pools: before every lease
A certificate for a non-shared pool lasts 2 years. Before each new lease, check it hasn't expired. If it has, the property needs a new inspection and certificate before the lease starts.
Build the expiry date into your lease calendar. If the certificate will expire close to a lease date, book the inspection early so a failed inspection doesn't delay the tenancy.
Shared pools
If you lease a unit or townhouse with a shared pool and there is a current certificate, give a copy to the new tenant and to the pool owner. The certificate must be displayed near the entrance to the premises or the access to the pool.
If there's no current certificate, lodge a Form 36. The pool owner, usually the body corporate, then has 90 days to get one. More on shared pools.
Between certificates
A certificate only shows the pool met the standard on the day it was inspected. Owners must keep the barrier meeting the standard at all times. Gate closers wear out, tenants move furniture next to fences and plants grow. A quick barrier check at each routine inspection catches these before they become a fine or a failed certificate.
QBCC publishes a pool safety checklist for property managers, and the PoolPreCert app follows the same areas of the standard.
Check a rental pool in minutes
Run the barrier checks at each routine inspection, keep the report on file, and book an inspector before the certificate expires.
Common questions
Do I need a pool safety certificate to rent out my house in Queensland?
Yes, for a non-shared pool. You must not enter into a lease unless a pool safety certificate is in effect.
Does a lease renewal need a new certificate?
QBCC says you must not enter into a lease of a house with a non-shared pool unless a pool safety certificate is in effect. A certificate lasts two years for a non-shared pool, so check its expiry date before each new lease or renewal.
Who gets the certificate for a pool in a unit complex?
The pool owner, usually the body corporate. If there is no current certificate when a unit is leased, a Form 36 must be lodged and the body corporate then has 90 days to get one.