Free Queensland checklist · Updated November 2026
Pool Safety Inspection Checklist for Queensland Owners
Will your pool pass? Work through the same items a licensed inspector checks — fence height, gaps, gates, latches, climbable objects, windows and the CPR sign. Tick them off on your phone or download the printable version, fix the easy things, then book with confidence.
Reviewed by a Licensed Queensland Pool Safety Inspector (QBCC PS1258802)
Interactive pool safety checklist
Tap each item once you've checked it. Your progress saves on this device so you can come back later.
0 of 23 checked
Pool fence & barrier
Non-climbable zone
Pool gates
Doors, windows & balconies
CPR sign
Spas & general
Ticked what you can? Book with confidence.
Anything you're unsure about, we'll check on the day and explain exactly what to do. $195 includes the government certificate fee and one free re-inspection.
Common Pool Inspection Failures
These are the issues we see most often across the Sunshine Coast.
FailFail: gate not self-closing or self-latching
The failure we see most often. Let go of the gate from fully open and from almost closed — if it doesn't swing shut and latch on its own every time, the hinges or latch need adjusting or replacing. Salt air near the beach wears them out faster.
FailFail: no CPR sign, or a faded one
A CPR sign must be in plain view from the pool area, at least 300mm square and legible. Sun-faded, peeling or missing signs all count as a failure. You can install a new CPR sign yourself, or we can usually supply and install for you.
FailFail: climbable objects against the fence
A BBQ, chairs or plant pot etc beside the fence give a child a step up. Keep the 900mm zone outside (and 300mm inside) clear.
FailFail: ground washed away under the fence
Erosion has opened a gap over 100mm under the bottom rail. Top up with firm material or concrete so it can't wash out again.
Quick fixes before we arrive
For a closer look at each problem and practical solutions, read 10 Common Reasons Pool Safety Inspections Fail in Queensland (and How to Fix Them).
- Move chairs, BBQs, pot plants, bins and toys at least 900mm away from the outside of the fence.
- Open the gate a little, a lot, and halfway — let go each time and make sure it closes and latches.
- Spray and adjust stiff hinges and latches; salt air near the beach corrodes them quickly.
- Top up soil, mulch or sand under the fence with something firm so the gap stays under 100mm.
- Replace a faded or cracked CPR sign — they're cheap from most pool shops.
- Trim back hedges, palms and overhanging branches near the fence.
Reviewed by a Licensed Queensland Pool Safety Inspector
This checklist has been written and reviewed by Wayne, the owner operator of Sunshine Pool Safety and a licensed Queensland Pool Safety Inspector, QBCC licence number PS1258802. It reflects the Queensland pool safety standard as published by the QBCC and the Queensland Government, and the issues we find most often on real Sunshine Coast inspections.
Last reviewed: November 2026. The checklist is a guide only — your inspector makes the final assessment against the standard.
Pool inspection questions, answered
How long does a pool safety inspection take?
Most inspections take 20–45 minutes, depending on the size of the pool area and how many gates, doors and windows open into it.
Do I need to be home for the inspection?
No, as long as we can safely get into the pool area and see every side of the barrier. Many sellers and landlords leave the house side gate unlocked or arrange access through their agent.
What happens if my pool fails?
We issue a nonconformity notice (Form 26) listing exactly what needs fixing. You have three months to make the repairs, and one re-inspection is included in our $195 fee.
What are the most common reasons pools fail on the Sunshine Coast?
Gates that don't self-close from every position, climbable items near the fence, garden mulch or erosion opening a gap under the fence, faded CPR signs, and overgrown plants. Salt air also corrodes latches and hinges faster near the coast.
Can I fix small issues myself before the inspection?
Yes. Moving furniture and pot plants, trimming plants, adjusting gate hinges and replacing a faded CPR sign are all owner-friendly fixes. Replacing a whole section of fence must meet the current standard.
How long is a pool safety certificate valid?
Two years for a non-shared pool (a house) and one year for a shared pool such as a unit complex or resort.
When do I need a pool safety certificate?
When you sell or lease a Queensland property with a pool or spa. For a sale, a Form 36 notice can be given instead, with the buyer then having 90 days to obtain the pool safety certificate.
Does this checklist guarantee my pool will pass?
No checklist can guarantee your pool will pass — every pool area is different. It covers the items we check most often, so you can fix the obvious issues before we arrive and save time on the day.
Pool inspections across the Sunshine Coast
We inspect pools from Noosa and Pomona to Caloundra and Pelican Waters to Maleny and Cooroy. See local advice for your area, or view the full service area.
Official sources
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