Your Holiday Season Troubleshooting Guide
Ray White Goulburn & Crookwell
Tenant Troubleshooting Guide: Your Holiday Season Helper
As we head into the Christmas and New Year period, our office will be operating with reduced hours. To help keep your home running smoothly during this busy time, we’ve created a special Holiday Tenant Troubleshooting Guide designed to support you with tips and solutions for common maintenance issues that may arise while our team is away.
This guide has been put together as a simple, practical “first response” tool for your tenancy It offers clear steps, helpful advice and quick fixes for those everyday challenges that can often be resolved with a little know-how saving you time and avoiding unnecessary delays
Our goal is to give you the confidence to troubleshoot minor maintenance concerns on your own where possible, helping you take care of your home quickly and efficiently over the holiday break
Keep this guide handy over Christmas and New Year We hope it makes things that little bit easier and ensures your tenancy remains comfortable and hassle-free throughout the festive season
Happy holidays, and happy troubleshooting!
.
TROUBLESHOOTING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BEFORE REQUESTING EMERGENCY REPAIRS
Emergency Repairs Under NSW Residential Tenancies Legislation
During the Christmas and New Year period, many trades and suppliers operate with limited availability To help keep things running smoothly at home, we’ve outlined what you should check first and what legally qualifies as an emergency repair under NSW tenancy legislation.
Emergency repairs are issues that create an immediate risk to your safety, the property, or essential services, and cannot reasonably wait until the next business day. These include:
A burst water service or serious water leak
A blocked or broken toilet
A serious roof leak
A gas leak
A dangerous electrical fault
Flooding or serious flood damage
Serious storm or fire damage
A failure or breakdown of gas, electricity, or water supply
A failure or breakdown of essential services for hot water, cooking, heating or cooling
A fault or damage that makes the premises unsafe or insecure (e g broken locks or windows)
A serious fault in a staircase, lift, or common area that makes the property unsafe
If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, please refer to the troubleshooting steps in this guide first They may help you resolve the issue quickly and avoid any unnecessary delays
Troubleshooting Before Requesting Emergency Repairs
Before contacting our emergency trades, please complete the following simple checks. Many common issues can be resolved quickly with a few basic steps, and this will help avoid unnecessary delays especially over the Christmas and New Year period.
These checks will help determine whether the issue can be fixed safely at home or whether it requires urgent attention from a qualified professional
Troubleshooting Checklist
Hot Water Not Working
Electric Hot Water
Check the power switch in the electrical meter box is turned ON.
Check if the system is on off-peak power (it may take time to reheat).
Ensure the circuit breaker has not tripped. Check the hot water tank for leaks (this may be an emergency).
Gas Hot Water
Ensure your gas supply is turned on at the meter.
Check whether other gas appliances are working. If instant hot water, check the display panel for error messages.
No Electricity
Check whether the whole property is affected or only certain areas
Inspect your switchboard to see if a safety switch has tripped
Test appliances one at a time an appliance may be causing the overload
Contact your electricity provider to check for local outages
Emergency? Only if there is sparking, burning smells, water affecting electrics, or a dangerous electrical fault
No Water Supply
Check with neighbours to see if it’s a street or area outage.
Ensure the mains water tap is turned on fully. If on tank water or a pump system, check the pump power supply.
Emergency? Yes, if there is a burst pipe or major leak.
TROUBLESHOOTING BEFORE REQUESTING EMERGENCY REPAIRS
Blocked Toilet
If there is more than one toilet on the property, this is not an emergency
Try using a household plunger
Avoid flushing repeatedly as this may cause overflow
Emergency? Only if there is one toilet only and it is completely blocked.
Gas Leak
Turn off the gas at the meter immediately.
Ventilate the area.
Do not use electrical switches or appliances.
Emergency? Yes. Contact our emergency plumber immediately.
Water Leaks / Burst Pipes
Turn water off at the main supply tap immediately.
Contain water using towels or buckets if safe to do so
Emergency? Yes, if the leak is continuous or causing damage
Roof Leak / Storm Damage
Move belongings away from the affected area
Place a container under any active drips
Emergency? Yes, if the leak is severe or the property is unsafe
Locked Out
Lockouts are not considered emergency repairs
Tenants are responsible for locksmith costs outside office hours.
Air-Conditioning or Heating Not Working
Check the filter for dust build-up. Check the system’s circuit breaker.
Emergency? Not usually, unless required for medical reasons (evidence may be required).
Oven or Cooktop Not Working
Check power or gas supply
Use alternative cooking options where possible
Emergency? Not typically an emergency
Smoke Alarms
Replace the battery if possible. If hardwired and faulty, this may require urgent attention.
Emergency? Yes, if the alarm is not functional and cannot be reset or silenced safely.
Security Issues (Broken Lock or Window)
Take temporary measures where safe (e.g. tape, cardboard).
If break-in related, contact Police first.
Emergency? Yes, if the property is unsafe or not secure.
If You Determine It Is an Emergency
If after troubleshooting you believe the issue qualifies as an emergency under NSW legislation:
1 Please contact our office first
2 If we are unavailable due to Christmas and New Year closing hours, please use our approved emergency trades listed in your tenancy agreement
Please note:
If you engage an unapproved tradesperson and the matter is not an emergency under NSW legislation, you may be responsible for the cost of repairs
Non-Urgent Repairs
If your issue is not classified as an emergency and can safely wait:
Please email our office, or Lodge the request through our online reporting portal.
These repairs will be attended to once our office reopens after the holiday period.
Our office will be closed over the Christmas and New Year period on the following dates:
Closed
24 December
25–28 December (Public Holidays & Weekend)
1 January (Public Holiday)
3 January (Closed)
Limited Hours – Front Counter Only
29 December – 10am to 2pm
30 December – 10am to 2pm
31 December – 10am to 2pm
2 January – 10am to 2pm
Reopening
Monday, 5 January 2026 for normal trading hours
During this period, emails and non-urgent maintenance requests will be monitored intermittently and attended to once the office reopens
Emergency Trades Contact List
If you have confirmed the situation is an emergency under NSW legislation and our office is closed, please contact the following approved trades:
Plumbing:
Clements Plumbing – 0478 082 414
Electrical: Brad Downes – 0400 497 163
Locksmith: Goulburn Locksmithing – 02 4821 3893
Glazier: Guymers Glass – 0417 653 998 &02 4821 0478
Roofing / Storm Damage: SES – 13 25 00
Emergency Services: Police / Fire / Ambulance – 000
Council After Hours: Goulburn Mulwaree Council – 02 4823 4500
Ray White Goulburn & Crookwell Contact Details
Ray White Goulburn – Crookwell: 02 4821 3788
After-Hours Property Management: 0488 030 841 Email: rentals.goulburn@raywhite.com
HOME ESSENTIALS
SMOKE ALARMS
Many of our homes are covered by Smoke Alarms Australia, your Property Manager will advise you if your property is covered.
In this instance please call Smoke Alarms Australia during business hours on 1300 125 276 or after hours on 1300 652 213 to attend to your smoke alarm
Smoke Alarms Australia also carries out an annual check of your smoke alarm.
Press the "test" button on the smoke alarm to check if it is functioning properly Ensure you hear a loud alarm sound.
If the alarm does not sound, replace the battery with a new battery and test again
Clean the smoke alarm using a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris that may be interfering with its operation
If the smoke alarm continues to malfunction, contact your property manager to arrange for assistance
AIR CONDITIONERS
Check that the circuit breaker or fuse box hasn’t tripped
Check that the filters are cleaned.
Check that the correct setting is selected on the control
Check batteries in remote
LIGHT GLOBES
Tenants are generally responsible for changing light bulbs, unless doing so requires specialist knowledge or equipment.
Tenant to change light bulb, if changing light bulb does not work report to your property manager
TV RECEPTION
Check the TV cables and connections for any loose or damaged parts
Try retuning the TV channels to ensure it's not a signal problem
If the issue persists, the problem may be with the TV antenna or the signal Contact your Property Manager
ELECTRICAL ISSUES
Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if any switches have tripped
If certain areas have no power, reset the safety switch or circuit breaker
If a light bulb is not working, replace it with a new one
For power points not working, check the circuit and reset the breaker if necessary. If the issue persists, contact your Property Manager
If your whole house is out of electricity, call your electricity provider to ensure there is not a power outage in your area or simply check on:
https://www essentialenergy com au/outages-andfaults/power-outages
HEATERS
Check the power supply and ensure the heater is properly plugged in
Clean or replace air filters regularly to maintain efficiency
If the heater is not working, contact your Property Manager for inspection and repair
Check that the gas supply is connected.
If you have a gas leak turn the gas off at the main
TELEPHONE AND INTERNET
Communication devices are the responsibility of the tenant Contact your chosen service provider
COOKTOPS, OVENS & RANGEHOODS
Ensure the power supply is connected and the circuit breaker is on
Check if the cooktop's control settings are properly adjusted
Clean the filters and exhaust fan of the rangehood regularly to prevent issues
If the cooktop or rangehood is not functioning, contact our maintenance team for repair or replacement
Check if the oven's timer and settings are properly adjusted
If it still malfunctions, contact your Property Manager
DRIPPING TAPS
Turn off the water supply to the tap. Replace worn-out washers or seals
If the tap continues to drip, contact your Property Manager to fix the issue
NBN UPS BATTERY REPLACEMENT
WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR NBN CONNECTION BOX BATTERY
When your backup power supply battery begins to fail, the power unit will emit a beeping sound Some ISP’s will also alert you via email or text message that your backup battery needs replacing
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I REPLACE THE BATTERY?
Generally an NBN connection box backup should last up to 2 years Due to the nature of backup power supplies, the batteries are always in use and always being charged - they are not only in use during power outages. We recommend you replace the battery regularly, e g every 2 years, before it gest to the point where the system is in alert status
WHAT IF I DONT REPLACE THE BATTERY?
Most phone lines that run via the NBN will not operate in a power outage if the backup the battery is not fully operational This means that in an emergency situation where your premises loses power, you may not have phone communication This is the reason the NBN backup battery power supplies are installed by default with your NBN installation It is for your safety that the backup power supply is operational
REMOVING THE BATTERY
Turn off the electrical outlet for the Power Supply Unit and then unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
Open the front cover of the Power Supply Unit
Disconnect the red positive (+)plug from the battery Push the tabs above and below the batterfy outward, and then lift the battery out of the Power Supply unit.
Disconnect the black negative (-) plug and remove the battery
INSTALLING A NEW BATTERY
Connect the black negative (-) plug to the new battery
Push the battery retaining tabs outward and insert the battery into the Power Supply Unit.
Connect the red positive (+) plug to the new battery
Make sure the wires are not being pinched by the battery of the front cover
Close the front cover and plug the Power Supply back into the electrical outlet and turn the power on The new battery will take 24 hours to completely charge Please keep the old battery as a backup unless it no longer functions.
Once power is returned to your NBN equipment, please allow up to 10 minutes for it to reboot During this time, you may not be able to use your NBN services
FEATURES
Replace your flat NBN connection box backup battery with a 100% compliant, Australian supplied battery. Keep your internet connection and phone line running during power outages
Completely DIY - no service calls needed Just unplug your old one, and plug in the new one.
SPECIFICATIONS
KITCHEN AND UTILITIES
DISHWASHER
Dishwasher does not start:
Ensure that the dishwasher is properly plugged into the power outlet.
Check if the power outlet is functioning correctly by testing it with another appliance
Confirm that the dishwasher door is fully closed and latched securely.
No water flow:
Verify that the water supply to the dishwasher is turned on and there are no kinks or blockages in the water inlet hose
Check if the water valve under the sink (connected to the dishwasher) is open
Ensure the dishwasher's spray arm is not clogged with debris, and the filter at the bottom is clean
Dishes not cleaned properly:
Avoid overloading the dishwasher, as this can hinder proper water circulation
Arrange dishes so that they do not obstruct the spray arm's rotation
Use the recommended amount of detergent suitable for your dishwasher and water hardness level
Check the spray arm and clean it if there is any debris blocking the nozzles
Dishwasher is noisy:
Verify that dishes or utensils are not hitting the spray arms during the wash cycle
Check for any foreign objects (e.g., broken glass, utensils) in the dishwasher's bottom that might be causing the noise
Ensure the dishwasher is leveled to avoid excessive vibration.
Dishwasher door leaks:
Inspect the door gasket for any signs of damage, wear, or debris and clean it if necessary.
Make sure the dishwasher door is closing properly and latching securely
Do not overload the dishwasher, as it may cause water to splash onto the door and leak.
Dishwasher does not drain:
Check for any clogs in the drain filter or drain pump area and clean them as needed
Ensure the dishwasher drain hose is not kinked, and it is properly connected to the sink or garbage disposal unit
Check if the air gap (if present) is clear of any blockages
HOT WATER SYSTEM
Check the circuit breaker or fuse for the hot water system
Relight the pilot light for gas hot water systems. If the hot water is not working, contact your Property Manager for inspection and repair
BURST PIPE & BLOCKED DRAIN
Shut off the water supply and electricity/gas if applicable
If there's a burst pipe, contact your Property Manager immediately
For blocked drains/toilets, use a plunger or drain cleaner If the problem persists, contact your Property Manager.
Bear in mind that if it's frosty, pipes could be frozen
MOULD
Clean mould-affected areas with a mixture of water and detergent
Improve ventilation in the property to prevent mould growth.
If mould is extensive or persists, contact your Property Manager for remediation
SLIDING DOORS
Clean the sliding door tracks regularly to prevent obstructions
Lubricate the tracks for smoother operation. If the sliding door is sticking or not closing properly, contact our maintenance team for assistance
KEYS
The tenant agrees that if they lose their keys or lock themselves out after hours they will contact a locksmith at their own cost. The tenant agrees if an agent from Ray White Goulburn is to attend to gain entry for the tenant a call out fee of $200 (GST INCLUSIVE) will apply
The tenant agrees to return all keys and remotes upon vacating the premises The tenant acknowledges that failure to return all keys and remotes on the vacating date will result in being charged rent until they are returned
The tenant agrees to not change any locks without permission from the Agent and if they do, a copy of the keys will be provided to Ray White Goulburn
OUTDOOR AND GENERAL
KEYS
The tenant agrees that if they lose their keys or lock themselves out after hours they will contact a locksmith at their own cost The tenant agrees if an agent from Ray White Goulburn is to attend to gain entry for the tenant a call out fee of $200 (GST INCLUSIVE) will apply
The tenant agrees to return all keys and remotes upon vacating the premises. The tenant acknowledges that failure to return all keys and remotes on the vacating date will result in being charged rent until they are returned
The tenant agrees to not change any locks without permission from the Agent and if they do, a copy of the keys will be provided to Ray White Goulburn
GARAGE REMOTES & DOOR LOCKS
Replace remote batteries if the door does not respond Lubricate garage door tracks and hinges for smoother operation
If the garage door doesn't open or lock properly, contact the property manager
POOLS
Water level is a priority and must be kept at a level to allow water to flow through the skimmer boxes at all times Failure to do this could result in enormous expenses
No metal objects are to be allowed in the pool as it could cause corrosion marks
No animals in the pool as this creates a huge chemical imbalance
Ensure regular testing of water to keep correct PH level, this helps prevent mould/fungus forming in the pool. Vacuum at least once a week to keep the pool clear of debris
Regular checks of the pump to ensure motor working correctly and efficiently. Leaking or pooling water at the pump could mean a cracked casing and will need attention
Even if the pool is maintained for you, it is still part of your responsibility to keep an eye/ear out for any problems
GUTTERS
If you notice your gutters filling with leaves and debris please report to your Property Manager Leaking gutters - report to your Property Manager
PEST CONTROL
Keep the property clean and tidy to prevent pest infestations
For minor pest problems, use traps or baits. For severe pest infestations, contact your Property Manager for professional pest control services
GARDENS
Regularly maintain the gardens by mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and weeding Tenants are responsible for general garden maintenance, including watering plants
Contact your Property Manager for major garden issues or landscaping needs
GARBAGE BINS
If council bins are damaged or stolen please report to your Property Manager.
HOME SALT POOL GUIDE
HIGH USAGE, EXCESS SWIMMERS
Will introduce more pollutants like body oils, perspiration, suntan lotion and so on, and you need to compensate by adding more chlorine. Encouraging pool users to shower first has merit, but welcome to the real world!
RAIN
Will usually make the water in your swimming pool lose its clarity (start to turn green, or lose its transparency) Add a shock dose of chlorine (say 3-4 times the daily dose) to get the water back to normal. Check the pH - the water may need acid When preparing acid solution, remember: water in the bucket first, acid last- DRY acid also known as Lo'n'slo is a safer option
CHECK THE WATER LEVEL
Ensure that the water level is never less than halfway up the skimmer opening. If the level is too low, the pump will begin to suck air, and may burn out
A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR SALT POOL
Having saltwater in a pool is really just an alternative way to chlorinate the water Yes it's healthier in the sense that it's like bathing in the ocean, but its cleansing action is more to do with electrolysis than anything else. Salt, of course, is Sodium Chloride, and chlorine is made when electrolysis occurs in a salt chlorinator It's not the salt that does the sanitizing; it only provides the raw material to make chlorine! Don't forget that a salt chlorinator is only doing its job when the pump is running!
HAS YOUR POOL BEEN NEGLECTED & TURNING GREEN?®
Empty the leaf basket in the skimmer, and the lint pot in the pump
Backwash the filter
Adjust the alkalinity to about 100ppm
Adjust the pH factor to about 7 4
Shock dose the pool with chlorine
Run the filter till the water clears
Vacuum the silt that is now on the bottom of the pool to "waste"
Maintain the free available chlorine at 2pm
STORMS
& YOUR POOL
After a storm remove leaves and other debris from the pool, because they tend to affect the water balance rather quickly.
Take in a sample of your pool water to your local pool shop for testing on a regular basis They can do more rigorous tests than is possible with a simple test kit, and can suggest additives to correct water balance Keep an eye out for metal parts on kid's toys: if they remain in the pool, they may cause rust stains
POOL SAFETY
ALWAYS keep the pool fence gate shut, because we can't predict when children will enter the pool area and get into trouble Always use plastic tumblers (rather than glass) in the pool area, to avoid unexpected injury. Learn about basic resuscitation techniques before you put in your pool
POOL MAINTENANCE LEASE CLAUSE CARTRIDGE:
Tenants are responsible for the regular maintenance of the pool at the property The tenant's minimum maintenance requirements include:
1 Test at a pool shop monthly (FREE SERVICE)
2 Brush The walls of the pool monthly
3 Empty the skimmer basket weekly
4.Clean the Cartridge filter Fortnightly- Steps Include
a Turn the system off
b Unscrew bleed valve
c Take the lid off the filter
d.Take the filter element out & hose between the fins.
e Put the filter back in the canister, put the lid back on
f Tighten the bleed valve & turn the system on
POOL MAINTENANCE LEASE CLAUSE MEDIA FILTER:
Tenants are responsible for the regular maintenance of the pool at the property. The tenant's minimum maintenance requirements include:
1 Test at a pool shop monthly (FREE SERVICE)
2.Brush the walls of the pool monthly
3 Empty the skimmer basket weekly
4 Clean the Media filter Fortnightly- Steps Include Turn off pump
Move MPV handle to backwash position and turn on pump then run for approx 2 minutes or until eyesight glass is clear
Turn off pump
Move MPV handle to rinse position and turn on pump for 30 Secs to 1 minute
Turn off pump
Move handle to filter position.
Turn on pump.
HOME CHLORINE POOL GUIDE
HIGH USAGE, EXCESS SWIMMERS
Will introduce more pollutants like body oils, perspiration, suntan lotion and so on, and you need to compensate by adding more chlorine. Encouraging pool users to shower first has merit, but welcome to the real world!
RAIN
Will usually make the water in your swimming pool lose its clarity (start to turn green, or lose its transparency) Add a shock dose of chlorine (say 3-4 times the daily dose) to get the water back to normal. Check the pH - the water may need acid When preparing acid solution, remember: water in the bucket first, acid last- DRY acid also known as Lo'n'slo is a safer option
CHECK THE WATER LEVEL
Ensure that the water level is never less than halfw ay up the skimmer opening. If the level is too low, the pump will begin to suck air, and may burn out
HAS YOUR POOL BEEN NEGLECTED & TURNING GREEN? ®
Empty the leaf basket in the skimmer, and the lint pot in the pump
Backwash the filter
Adjust the alkalinity to about l00ppm
Adjust the pH factor to about 7 4
Shock dose the pool with chlorine
Run the filter till thewater clears
Vacuum the silt that is now on the bottom of the pool to "waste"
Maintain the free available chlorine at 2pm
STORMS & YOUR POOL
After a storm remove leaves and other debris from the pool, because they tend to affect the water balance rather quickly. Take in a sample of your pool water to your local pool shop for testing on a regular basis They can do more rigorous tests than is possible with a simple test kit, and can suggest additives to correct water balance Keep an eye out for metal parts on kid's toys: if they remain in the pool, they may cause rust stains
POOL SAFETY
ALWAYS keep the pool fence gate shut, because we can't predict when children will enter the pool area and get into trouble. Always use plastic tumblers (rather than glass) in the pool area, to avoid unexpected injury Learn about basic resuscitation techniques before you put in your pool: you won't regret doing a CPR course Legislation requires you to have a current CPR chart in your pool area these can be purchased from Sapphire Pool & Spa for $19 95
Note: These instructions are given as guidelines only always read instructions on packets. If any problems arise please consult your local pool & spa professional
HOME ESSENTIALS
SMOKE ALARMS
Many of our homes are covered by Smoke Alarms Australia, your Property Manager will advise you if your property is covered.
In this instance please call Smoke Alarms Australia during business hours on 1300 125 276 or after hours on 1300 652 213 to attend to your smoke alarm
Smoke Alarms Australia also carries out an annual check of your smoke alarm.
Press the "test" button on the smoke alarm to check if it is functioning properly Ensure you hear a loud alarm sound.
If the alarm does not sound, replace the battery with a new battery and test again
Clean the smoke alarm using a vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris that may be interfering with its operation
If the smoke alarm continues to malfunction, contact your property manager to arrange for assistance
AIR CONDITIONERS
Check that the circuit breaker or fuse box hasn’t tripped
Check that the filers are cleaned.
Check that the correct setting is selected on the control
Check batteries in remote
LIGHT GLOBES
Tenants are generally responsible for changing light bulbs, unless doing so requires specialist knowledge or equipment.
Tenant to change light bulb, if changing light bulb does not work report to your property manager
TV RECEPTION
Check the TV cables and connections for any loose or damaged parts
Try retuning the TV channels to ensure it's not a signal problem
If the issue persists, the problem may be with the TV antenna or the signal Contact your Property Manager
ELECTRICAL ISSUES
Check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if any switches have tripped
If certain areas have no power, reset the safety switch or circuit breaker
If a light bulb is not working, replace it with a new one
For power points not working, check the circuit and reset the breaker if necessary. If the issue persists, contact your Property Manager
If your whole house is out of electricity, call your electricity provider to ensure there is not a power outage in your area or simply check on: https://www essentialenergy com au/outages-andfaults/power-outages
HEATERS
Check the power supply and ensure the heater is properly plugged in
Clean or replace air filters regularly to maintain efficiency
If the heater is not working, contact your Property Manager for inspection and repair
Check that the gas supply is connected.
If you have a gas leak turn the gas off at the main
TELEPHONE AND INTERNET
Communication devices are the responsibility of the tenant Contact your chosen service provider
COOKTOPS, OVENS & RANGEHOODS
Ensure the power supply is connected and the circuit breaker is on
Check if the cooktop's control settings are properly adjusted
Clean the filters and exhaust fan of the rangehood regularly to prevent issues
If the cooktop or rangehood is not functioning, contact our maintenance team for repair or replacement
Check if the oven's timer and settings are properly adjusted
If it still malfunctions, contact your Property Manager
DRIPPING TAPS
Turn off the water supply to the tap. Replace worn-out washers or seals
If the tap continues to drip, contact your Property Manager to fix the issue
SWIMMING POOLS
Safety guidelines for consumers
Taking safety precautions helps to protect young children from drowning in swimming and spa pools.
Pool owners are required to maintain the safety of their pool area. When building a new pool, you must also follow certain safety measures.
If you plan to sell or rent out property with a pool in NSW, become informed about the laws that apply
Registration and certification requirements
Drowning is a leading cause of preventable death in children under 5 years of age In 2012, the Swimming Pools Act 1992 was amended to improve the safety of children around swimming pools in NSW The changes include:
Swimming pool owners must register their swimming pool or spa pool on the NSW Swimming Pool Register
Local councils and accredited certifiers registered with the Building Professionals Board, can carry out inspections of swimming pools.
From 29 April 2016 a copy of a valid certificate of compliance or relevant occupation certificate must be attached to new residential tenancy agreements to rent property with a swimming pool or spa pool. This requirement does not apply to a lot in strata or community schemes with more than two lots.
From 29 April 2016 a copy of a valid certificate of compliance or relevant occupation certificate, or a valid certificate of non-compliance, must be attached to the sales contract to sell property with a swimming pool or spa pool. This requirement does not apply: to a lot in strata or community schemes with more than two lots, or for any off-the-plan contract
Do these laws apply to me?
These laws apply if you are the owner of a property with a swimming pool or spa pool In a strata or community
scheme, all the lot owners jointly own any swimming pool or spa pool that is on common property. The owners corporation (or body corporate) is responsible for ensuring such pools are compliant with the Swimming Pools Act 1992.
The law applies to any excavation, structure or vessel - including swimming pools and spa pools - that are: capable of being filled with water to a depth greater than 30cm, and used, designed, manufactured or adapted for swimming, wading, paddling or any other human aquatic activity
Renting a property with a swimming pool or spa pool
From 29 April 2016 onwards, when a residential tenancy agreement is entered into for a property with a swimming pool or spa pool, the landlord or real estate agent must provide the tenant with a copy of the valid certificate of compliance or occupation certificate
This requirement does not apply to a lot in a strata scheme or in a community scheme if that strata or community scheme has more than two lots.
Selling a property with a swimming pool or spa pool
H you are selling a property with a swimming pool or spa pool on and after 29 April 2016, you must ensure the contract for sale includes:
a valid swimming pool certificate of compliance a relevant occupation certificate issued within the last 3 years and evidence that the pool is currently registered or
a valid certificate of non-compliance
This requirement does not apply to a lot in a strata scheme or in a community scheme if that strata or community scheme has more than two lots, or if the sales contract is for an off-the-plan property
Not attaching the certificates when required may allow the purchaser to rescind the contract within 14 days of exchange, unless settlement has already occurred.
If a certificate of non-compliance is attached to the contract for sale, the vendor is transferring the obligation to obtain a certificate of compliance to the purchaser The purchaser will have 90 days from the date of settlement to rectify defects listed in the certificate of non compliance and obtain a certificate of compliance
How do I register my swimming pool?
Pool owners are required to register their pools online on the NSW Government's Swimming Pool Register Once registered, a certificate of registration will be issued to the pool owner. To check that your pool has been registered, go to the NSW Government's Swimming Pool Register website at www.swimmingpoolregister.nsw.gov.au
How can I organise an Inspection and obtain a certificate of compliance?
Local councils, and accredited certifiers registered with the Building Professionals Board, can carry out a swimming pool barrier inspection. They can then issue a certificate of compliance if the swimming pool or spa pool meets all the safety requirements.
Pool owners should contact their local council or a private certifier early to organise a compliance inspection
A swimming pool certificate of compliance is valid for 3 years from Its date of issue To check if a certificate of compliance has been issued, go to the NSW Government's Swimming Pool Register
When is an occupation certificate adequate?
A relevant occupation certificate may be used instead of a swimming pool certificate of compliance if it: is less than 3 years old, and authorises the use of the swimming pool
If an occupation certificate is used, evidence that the swimming pool is registered must also be provided with the sales contract.
Where can I get more information?
You can search the NSW Government's Swimming Pool Register to check if a pool has been registered and whether a certificate of compliance has been issued
For more information, fact sheets in other languages and water safety requirements, please visit the Royal Life Saving NSW website or contact your local council
When building a new pool
When building a new pool, it is necessary to: install temporary fencing around the pool area while it is under construction inform your local council about where your permanent pool fence is going to be located, to make sure that its location meets council guidelines arrange a final inspection by your local council or a private building certifier as soon as possible after the permanent compliant fence has been installed.
Protect Your Pool, Protect Your Kids video
The Children's Hospital, Westmead, commissioned a comprehensive video covering a range of pool safety topics. All pool owners are encouraged to take a few minutes to watch the video and implement its safety messages and techniques.
The video is located under 'Drowning Prevention' on the Swimming Pool Fencing page of The Children's Hospital at Westmead website (https:// kidshealth schn health nsw gov aun
Pool cleaning systems
There have been several incidents where children have become trapped in cleaning and skimming systems used in swimming pools
The types of pool cleaning devices involved in these incidents have included:
potty-style skimmer boxes in-floor cleaning systems using suction outlets that are located on the bottom of the pool.
Reduce the risks
Check what pool cleaning system is used in your swimming pool. If you are unsure, contact the pool builder or your local pool service provider for help
If you own a swimming pool with a potty-style skimmer box (so-called as it resembles a child's potty) you should ensure that the skimmer box lid is securely attached by glue or screwed down in place so it can't be removed
If you own a swimming pool with an in-floor cleaning system using suction outlets (outlets that draw from the pool) you should:
check that the covers of any pool suction outlets, particularly those of main drains, are firmly and properly affixed using the manufacturer's recommended parts check that the suction outlet does not pose a risk of trapping hair, fingers, toes or another part of the body
ensure that any broken or damaged suction outlet covers, particularly those of main drains, are replaced immediately. All pool owners should: prevent anyone using their pool, particularly children, from playing with or near any pool outlets
clearly label and know the location of the on/off switch for the pool filtration system display an approved resuscitation chart in the pool area
Electrical hazards
Pools and electricity can be a lethal combination Be very careful if you have a swimming pool that has a portable electrical pump and filter system where there is no protective housing
When buying pools with electrical pumps and filters you should:
make sure the pump and filter have an electrical safety approval number or Regulatory Compliance Mark check they are suitable for outdoor use
fit a safety switch to the house where the pool will be used
arrange for a licensed electrician to install a suitable weather-protected electrical power point close to where the pool equipment will be located to avoid the use of extension cords
If it is necessary to use flexible extension cords:
only use heavy duty cords and always roll them up and store them overnight or when not in use do not join a number of extension cords togetherpurchase a single cord of the required length make sure extension cords are not damaged by people walking or driving over them or by pets chewing on them
always remove the extension cords before mowing any lawn area near the pool
Fencing requirements
Owners of premises with swimming pools must:
surround their pools at all times with a childresistant safety barrier separating the swimming pool from any residential building and any place adjoining the premises keep all doors and gates providing access to the swimming pool closed at all times have the required warning sign displayed near the pool
ensure fences surrounding pools are designed, constructed, installed and maintained to comply with Australian standards for swimming pools
Please visit the pool safety checklists page on the NSW Swimming Pool Register for further information Inflatable pools
For safety information about inflatable or portable pools refer to the Inflatable swimming pools page on the Fair Trading website
In case of emergency
Near your pool, you should have a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) sign that is in good condition and can be read from a distance of 3 meters
You can buy a CPR sign from your local pool shop, council or community organizations such as St John Ambulance, the Australian Red Cross or The Royal Life Saving Society
www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
Fair Trading enquiries 13 32 20 m 1300123 404
Language assistance 1314 50
This fact sheet must not be relied on as legal advice For more information about this topic, refer to the appropriate legislation
© State of New South Wales through NSW Fair Trading
You may freely copy, distribute, display or download this information with some Important restrictions. See NSW Fair Trading's copyright policy at www.fairtradlng.nsw.gov.au email publications@finance.nsw.gov.au
Tel: 13 32 20
