Laws that require owners of swimming pools and spas to have a certificate of compliance have been postponed until April next year.
Initially coming into effect this month, pool owners across NSW will now have more time to ensure swimming pools and spas are compliant prior to the lease of their property.
The NSW Office of Local Government announced last week that the legislation will now come into effect on 29 April 2015.
“Real estate industry representatives want more time to ensure properties with a pool are compliant before selling or leasing,” Office of Local Government chief executive Ross Woodward said in a statement.
“Council officer feedback indicates high inspection failure rates mean that it is not uncommon for it to take three months from first inspection to the issuing of a compliance certificate.”
Real Estate Institute of New South Wales (REINSW) CEO Tim McKibbin said it was evident the number of existing qualified inspectors was inadequate to respond to market demand and therefore the decision to extend the transition period is appropriate.
“Earlier this year we sought a deferral from the minister in order to avoid adverse consequences for the sale and leasing of properties captured by the legislation,” Mr McKibbin said.
“With some 300,000 pools and spas across the state, REINSW suggested some transitional procedures be implemented as part of the commencement of the obligation.
“REINSW is satisfied that the additional time will allow the smooth implementation of the new procedures, and deadlines now will be met,” Mr McKibbin said.