A Form 23 is the official certificate confirming your pool or spa safety barrier complies with the applicable standard. Victorian councils require it to be lodged on a recurring cycle after your pool is registered.
Who can issue one
Only a registered inspector can issue a Form 23. At Aqua Dreamz PBI, your inspection and certificate are handled by a certified BPC building inspector who specialises in pool safety.
How long it takes
If your barrier complies, the certificate is issued promptly — usually the same day as the inspection. If something needs fixing first, you'll get clear guidance and a $180 re-inspection confirms the repairs.
What is a Form 23?
A Form 23 is the certificate of pool and spa safety barrier compliance used in Victoria. It is the official document that confirms your pool or spa barrier meets the safety standard that applies to your property. Once issued, the certificate is lodged with your local council as the formal record that your barrier is compliant.
Form 23 vs Form 42
The two go hand in hand. If your barrier meets the standard, a Form 23 (certificate of compliance) is issued and lodged with council. If it doesn't, the inspector lodges a Form 42 (certificate of barrier non-compliance) instead, which notifies the council that the barrier needs rectification. In practice, most owners who don't pass first time simply complete the repairs and then receive their Form 23 at re-inspection.
When do you need a Form 23?
You'll generally need a compliance certificate when you register a new or existing pool or spa with your council, after any barrier modifications or renovations, and then every four years on an ongoing basis. It's also commonly required when selling or renting out a property with a pool or spa.
How to get your Form 23
It's a straightforward process with Aqua Dreamz. Book an inspection, and our BPC-registered inspector assesses your barrier on site against the applicable standard. If everything complies, we issue your Form 23 and lodge it with your council. If something needs attention, you'll get a clear report and time to arrange a re-inspection — we help you get there rather than just listing faults.
How long is a Form 23 valid?
Under current Victorian regulations, a compliance certificate is valid for four years. After that, your barrier needs to be re-inspected and a new certificate lodged to keep your pool or spa compliant.
Do I need a Form 23 to sell my house?
If the property has a pool or spa, compliance is part of your obligations — talk to us early so there are no last-minute surprises at settlement.
Who can issue a Form 23?
A registered building surveyor or a registered pool safety inspector can issue the certificate once your barrier passes inspection.