When it comes to buying and selling real estate in Australia, pool safety compliance is of paramount concern. When Sally and her husband Greg set out to find a family home, they had one big priority: space for their four energetic children to play, splash, and grow. And in Sydney’s leafy Sutherland Shire, they found the perfect property… almost.
From the front, the home ticked plenty of boxes – a family-friendly layout, plenty of room to grow, and that all-important backyard pool. But when they stepped out onto the generous rear entertaining deck for the first time, reality hit. The view over the backyard swimming pool was dominated by an old, crumbling bamboo fence and worse, the fence was completely non-compliant, posing major pool safety compliance problems.
“From the start, we knew the fence had to go. It was tired, unstable and simply didn’t meet modern safety standards.”
Tired fence and pool safety compliance concerns
What complicated matters was the fact that the fence also formed part of the boundary between Sally and Greg’s property and a neighbouring rental, which also had a swimming pool. Installing a safe fence in a short timeframe was paramount for the family.
“Thankfully, the owners of the neighbouring property were keen to work with us on the best option for the pool area, which was a boundary wall from ModularWalls. The fact we could paint the walls to suit our side of the outdoor area, and the neighbours could do the same, was fantastic.”
Seamless, stylish solutions for pool safety compliance
The couple chose TrendWall® for its sleek, contemporary look, which not only met every functional requirement from a pool safety compliance perspective, but also enhanced the look of their entire backyard. Standing at a total height of 2.4m (1.8m to the pool boundary on their side), the couple say the communication and solutions provided by ModularWalls were outstanding.
“The team from ModularWalls were amazing and they answered all the questions we had. We were able to problem–solve the complex nature of our pool wall, with the height difference between our property and the neighbours and the extra height needed on a section where we have a garden bed.”
Design with a difference: a fence that became a feature
One of the standout features of Sally and Greg’s home is the expansive rear outdoor entertaining zone overlooking the pool and grassy backyard. With TrendWall®, they were able to create both a barrier to provide pool compliance, along with a stunning visual backdrop. The smart design of TrendWall® also meant wiring for outdoor lighting could be seamlessly installed, allowing for beautiful illumination during evening swims and year-round entertaining.
“TrendWall® was exactly what we needed for our pool safety compliance. It was a complex project as we have a flower bed in our pool area, therefore we needed extra height on one section of the wall. I am so happy with the results TrendWall® has provided for our outdoor space. I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Teamwork made the dream work
When it came to the finishing touches, Sally says there were so many pluses to choosing ModularWalls.
- Aesthetic appeal: The wall delivered a high-end look, transforming the backyard into a modern oasis.
- Acoustic privacy: With four kids at play, reducing noise between properties was a welcome bonus. A bonus of the wall installation has been the noise reduction between the houses and kids playing in the pool areas.
- Security and visual privacy: The structure provides a secure boundary and shields the pool area from neighbours.
- Custom paint options: The couple painted their wall Oyster Grey to match the aluminium posts, while the neighbour chose their own colour for their side.
- Lighting integration: The posts allowed for easy wiring, enabling poolside lighting to extend enjoyment beyond daylight hours.
- Quick installation: The process was smooth and fast, helping the family meet a tight compliance deadline.
“We wanted the new TrendWall® to be a feature in our pool area. The area will be used by our family day and night.”
A refreshing new space for the whole family
Now that the pool compliance fencing project is complete, the couple couldn’t be happier. The outdoor space now serves as a true extension of the home, a place for family entertaining, kids’ parties, and quiet evening swims.
“The result is better than expected. We love the wall. It has been great for privacy and looks so modern. The entire process from ordering to installation was streamlined.”
Advice for other homeowners to achieve pool safety compliance
Got a similar issue with a non-compliant fence? These handy tips could help ensure a smooth and speedy solution:
- Start early: If pool compliance is an issue, start searching straight away for the ideal solution to meet your needs and ensure safety for all.
- Communicate with neighbours: Be transparent and open, and make it clear you want a solution that works for both parties.
- Choose the right installer: Look for experienced installers with a proven track record and positive online reviews.
Painting made easy
Sally and Greg opted to paint their wall in Oyster Grey, matching the sleek aluminium posts. Sally’s tip?
“Use good quality paint as recommended by ModularWalls and use good quality lamb’s wool rollers for a smooth finish.”
The verdict
What started as an unsightly pool safety compliance issue has turned into a stunning transformation. Sally and Greg now enjoy a backyard that’s not only safe but a beautiful, private retreat their whole family can enjoy.
