The Building Act 2004 requires your pool barrier to be inspected at least once every three years by the council or an independently qualified pool inspector. This page explains the pool safety inspection process and provides videos on legal barrier requirements for in-ground, above-ground and small heated pools.
The Building Act 2004 requires your pool barrier to be inspected at least once every three years by the council or an independently qualified pool inspector.
We automatically schedule safety checks for pool barriers, approximately once every three years.
Around two weeks before the assessment date, we will send a letter letting you know when we will be in your neighbourhood.
Homeowners, tenants, landlords and property managers carry joint responsibility for pool safety. Make sure the pool is always secure and ensure safety through regular maintenance of fences and gates.
If an inspector will have trouble accessing the property because of security restrictions or dogs, or if you want to be home when the inspector comes, you will need to contact us and book a day.
Phone: 09 353 9143
Email: swpinspect@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
Otherwise, our inspector will visit your property according to our schedule and carry out the safety check.
If our inspector comes to your property and cannot gain access to the pool area, you will still be charged for the site visit and you will need to book a return assessment time.
If the pool barrier fails the inspection, we will automatically re-book a re-check in 21 days. Make sure you contact us if you are unable to get the work completed in time.
Sites considered particularly dangerous will be re-checked after 48 hours.
We can issue a 'Notice to fix' under the Building Act 2004 for a non-complying pool or pool barrier.
Check who is responsible for ensuring that a pool barrier complies.
Use our pool area safety checklist to ensure your pool is safe.
Swimming pool owners are charged an annual targeted rate of $66.33. This covers the cost of the inspection to confirm compliance.
After a successful inspection, a pool area is classed as 'pass', 'empty' or 'removed'.
If we cannot gain access, or your pool fails the inspection, there will be an extra charge of $203.
If you use an independent qualified pool inspector, the targeted rate will be reduced to $33.17.
If you have received a certificate of periodic inspection from an independent qualified pool inspector, email swpinspect@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz with your:
The discount will show on your next rates bill.
You can:
To find an independently qualified pool inspector (IQPI), see the pool inspector public register.
If you choose an independently qualified pool inspector, they will issue a certificate of periodic inspection certifying the pool barrier complies.
Let us know if you choose to use an IQPI so that we can update our records.
To do this, contact us on:
Phone: 09 353 9143
Email: pools@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
