Property 101: Kidsafe releases rental backyard pool safety kit

Kidsafe Victoria has released an online information kit for estate agents, property managers and landlords to assist them in providing information and resources to tenants.

Robert Caulfield, Vice President of Kidsafe Victoria, said landlords have a legal requirement to install and maintain pool fences and gates that meet the relevant Australian Standards and tenants are required to ensure that the pool fence is maintained and operating correctly. 

"All pool and spa barriers will experience exposure to extremes of weather and wear and tear over time, including rust, missing bolts or screws and damage," he said. 

"Therefore it is important that they are regularly checked and maintained, especially in rental properties."

Simon Cohen, Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria, said landlords and tenants share responsibility for making sure fencing and gates around pools are safe. 

"I urge landlords and their property managers to make use of this kit and work with tenants to ensure the safety of pool areas," he said.

Kidsafe are encouraging all estate agents, property managers and landlords to visit: 

https://www.kidsafevic.com.au/water-safety/pool-fence-safety/renting-or-leasing-a-property-with-a-pool today, download their free copy of the backyard pool and spa information kit and provide information and resources to their tenants.

Life Saving Online Kidsafe Resources for Pool Owners

The campaign calls for all pool and spa owners to visit: 

www.kidsafevic.com.au/water-safety/pool-fence-safety and utilise the online resources, including the home pool safety assessment tool developed by Life Saving Victoria, to check the safety of their pool areas. This includes common pool barrier faults/non-compliance issues such as: