How to use this checklist
Grab a tape measure and do a slow lap of the pool. Every item below maps to a real inspection point — if you can tick them all honestly, you're very likely to pass first time. Most owners find at least two fails; nearly all are same-day fixes.
The fence — 5 minutes
- Measure the height at the lowest-looking points, from the ground on the outside: 1200mm or more everywhere?
- Anything raising the ground level near the fence — garden beds, mulch, pavers?
- Any gap you could fit a 100mm ball through — under the fence, between palings, at posts?
- Push on panels: everything firm, nothing loose or leaning?
- If a boundary fence forms part of the barrier: 1800mm on the pool side, no exposed rails? (the boundary rules)
The gate — 5 minutes
- Opens outward, away from the pool?
- Release it from fully open: closes and latches by itself?
- Release it from barely open — resting just off the latch: still closes and latches? (This is the one that fails)
- Latch release at least 1500mm off the ground, or properly shielded?
- No props, hooks, or tie-backs anywhere near it?
The climb zone — 5 minutes
- Sweep a mental 900mm arc from the top of the fence: any pot plants, furniture, BBQs, eskies, toys?
- Tree branches or sturdy shrubs within reach of the top?
- Pool pump, filter or heater boxes near the fence?
- Retaining walls or steps that shorten the climb?
The two-minute extras
- CPR sign: present, current (DRSABCD), legible from the water, firmly fixed? (details)
- Windows or doors opening into the pool area (where the house is part of the barrier): restricted or self-closing?
- Ladders to above-ground pools: removed or fenced?
Found problems?
Latches, signs and climbable objects are DIY. Height and structural issues usually mean a fencing quote — our rectification cost guide has ballparks, and we can source quotes for the lot.