The letter tells you which property and barrier standard the City has recorded, plus the date your next compliance certificate is due. Keep it nearby while you arrange the inspection. You do not need to upload the letter to Pool Letter Help.
This guide covers City of Ballarat pool and spa letters. It is independent information, not a City or Building and Plumbing Commission service.
Want a quick date check? Use the free due date calculator. The date stays in your browser and is not saved.
Four checks before you request an inspector
Find the property, standard and due date
Check that the address and pool or spa details on the letter match your property. Find the applicable barrier standard and copy the certificate due date exactly as printed.
Do not work out the standard from the age of the pool, a previous owner's paperwork or an online checklist. The registered practitioner needs to inspect against the standard recorded for the property. If the address, ownership details or standard appear wrong, contact the City's Building Services team before booking.
Keep the two deadlines separate
The certificate due date on the council letter is the deadline for providing the next compliance certificate. It is not the same as the 30-day lodgement period for Form 23.
After a registered practitioner issues Form 23, a separate clock starts. The certificate is valid for 30 days and the owner must lodge it with the City during that period.
If Form 23 is not lodged in time, the Building and Plumbing Commission says a new inspection and certificate are required.
Arrange a private registered inspector
The City says owners must hire a private pool and spa inspector to obtain a compliance certificate. Victorian rules allow an authorised registered pool inspector, building inspector, building surveyor or municipal building surveyor to inspect the barrier.
Check the practitioner's current registration before booking. Ask what the quote includes, whether reinspection costs extra and whether the practitioner can work before the date on your letter. Availability is confirmed by the practitioner. This page does not promise an immediate or emergency appointment.
Use the right route for your date
Pool Letter Help accepts a request only when the property is in Ballarat and the certificate due date is today or within the next 60 days. The form checks the council, suburb, pool or spa type and due date before asking to send contact details to one selected inspector.
If the due date is more than 60 days away, return closer to the date. If it has already passed, contact the City of Ballarat directly. The form does not send overdue requests, and it does not replace advice from the City about a missed deadline.