Your trusted pool professionals
Membership Features and Benefits
Your trusted pool professionals Exclusive to SPASA Members A complete Domestic Contract Swimming Pool Contract kit, that complies with the current Queensland Legislation, containing a Government approved “Consumer Information Statement”, as required by the Domestic Building Contracts Act-2000 Handover & Variation books to protect the Contractors interests WaterWorks — a Domestic Contract Works & Liability Insurance Scheme Watertight — Contract Completion Benefits for Consumers Consumer Advertising & Support Consumer & Government liaison, mediation and support Merchant facilities
What is SPASA? SPASA is the only industry association specifically set up for the swimming pool & spa sector in Queensland, recognized by the State Government. Our industry is made up of many businesses that source all or part of their income from the construction, installation, renovation, repair or servicing of swimming pools and spas for consumers and the businesses that supply the builders, (i.e. manufacturers, installers, renovators, equipment & chemical suppliers, materials suppliers, retailers, consultants etc). Indeed any provider of goods or services to the pool & spa industry or the consumers. It is a fact that any one thing that effects any one part of the industry, has a “flow on” effect (directly and indirectly) to all of the other industry businesses as a whole (particularly if it is adverse). There is very little doubt, that there are many issues and problems affecting the industry that are either impossible or too great for any one business to handle effectively on its own. This is why the industry has a mutually beneficial, co-operative, non-profit association, and why every business in the industry needs to be a member of its own Trade Association! Self regulation and self assessment by SPASA members helps to ensure that all members conduct themselves in all of their business dealings with fairness and honesty towards fellow members and consumers.
Only SPASA gives its members confident positive consumer credibility, backed in the market place with Benefits that NON-Members simply do not have.
to SPASA Members
An effective consumer media tion service and the adoption of various codes of practice has helped the association reach a point where its mem bers are now seen by Government and Consumers to have an image that promotes confidence and support to consumers that they will receive a quality product or service at a reasonable price and have somewhere to go, if they think they don’t. The provision of Watertight Contract Benefits & WaterWorks Contract & Liability Insurance enhances and reinforces this image in the market place, and is seen by various authorities and consumer groups to be a positive consumer benefit. Governments at all levels are constantly reviewing and changing legislative rules and regulations, and by having an accepted and recognized industry voice representing the Industry (on various Government committees), SPASA has been able to ensure that most changes made have been at the maximum benefit available to our industry. SPASA has already had a major influence in areas such as pool safety, fencing, chemical packaging & storage, industry standards, and consumer legislation, construction license and building contracts. SPASA works towards keeping its members well informed, deals with government and other centres of influence on their behalf, and generally ensures that their interests are protected.
Your trusted pool professionals Why you should be a SPASA member:
Networking with suppliers and peers Informative industry forums Membership benefits Legislative updates Government lobbying Rebate schemes Consumer referrals Member to member referrals Industry compliance updates – fencing, Work Place Health and Safety Merchant facilities Group insurances Fleet discounts Recognition as professional pool service
Up to date information: The Association produces “SPASA Q Update” as an e-newsletter with updates on relevant Association, legislative and general industry events and information. SPASA Q Update is a major destination for Pool, Spa and related industry news. Its ease of access enables management & staff to be informed on various issues and helps improve communication and education within your business. SPASA Q Update promotes special events, updates the calendar of events for the Association, reports on Sector and Committee Meetings, informs on new product information or BSA or Govt requirements, advises of new, resigned or re-located members, provides contact with committees on current projects, and distributes third party industry information gathered form various sources. SPASA Q Update is also a great opportunity for sponsorship. You and your staff can even find yourselves in the social snaps or featured on the front cover in full colour— just simply by being there.
An industry newsletter with updates on relevant Association and general industry events
Consumer Newsletter Pool owners and interested consumers can now stay up to date with the latest pool news through the Waterline newsletter. Produced quarterly, the magazine informs readers of changes to legislation that may impact them, up-
Association Structure
As an Incorporated “non-profit” Association in Queensland, the Association is based on a democratic structure and process that enables all its members to vote and participate in directing the Association in identifying and reaching its goals within the Industry, the Community and Government. Individual members also have the opportunity for personal development through involvement in the Governing Council and other sub-committees which work on various projects developing and building the concepts for the Association, the industry generally and the greater community.
Your trusted pool professionals Industry workshops & education Training program and workshops are organized to benefit members with ease of access in relation to time and place as well as providing a curriculum related directly to industry needs. These topics are based on the SPASA member recommendations. There are always opportunities for members to be involved in future curriculum development. Pool industry topics rather than general building industry items reduces the time needed for training due to the specialized content, reduces the costs involved, and increases the effectiveness and productivity. This is important when meeting government guidelines in regards to training requirements Training provided by a recognized industry organization has greater credibility, and , is more promotable. Certificates are provided for attendees to display to consumers. The cost of attending workshops for SPASA members is subsidized by SPASA. Training can also be a type of staff reward that increases their skills & knowledge in the bosses time which improves their education level as individuals not just as current employees. Training, and therefore improved knowledge of industry, promotes confidence in staff. Other industry education is actively encouraged by SPASA via members’ networking functions, trade/golf/social days, through Waterline, technical advice from other members and informal training through contact with peers. Industry news and updates of law and legislation is forwarded on to members by fax, by mail, with newsletters and other notices throughout the year.
Pool Companies are not all the same Licensed by the BSA ?
(It just isn’t enough)
Only Businesses that qualify with proven stability, proven Consumer relations and proven skills are accepted as SPASA members—which protects the Watertight Trust Fund, and enhances the SPASA Logo generally. Only SPASA Member contractors can offer:
A Contract that complies with the DBC Act
A Government Approved Consumer Information Statement
Watertight contract completion benefits to ensure completion
WaterWorks Insurance benefits to protect the site
Support from the recognized Industry Body, and
Mediation should things go wrong 70% of all domestic pool buyers choose a SPASA Member & want Watertight Benefits
Watertight Contract Benefits Watertight Contract Completion & Defective Construction Benefits provides a Completion Benefit and a Statutory Warranty Benefit to Consumers that BSA Insurance does not, as BSA Insurance only covers residential construction work. These benefits are exclusive to SPASA Members in Queensland who fund the mutual discretionary trust, and provide the completion or rectification of the contracted works, as may be required.
Watertight Contract Benefits are only available to those consumers who build with a SPASA Member and it is heavily promoted as such.
There is no other benefit scheme of a similar nature available in Queensland for Swimming Pool construction.
Watertight provides the consumer with similar benefits to the BSA Home Warranty Insurance scheme for Contract Completion, and Defective Construction (for the Statutory Warranty period of 6 years)
As a direct result of SPASA promotions, consumers now actively look for builders who can provide Watertight Contract Benefits as they want these benefits.
Watertight Contract Completion Benefit covers the consumer to ensure that their contract is completed, as per the contract by another SPASA Member in the event that their chosen contractor dies, disappears or goes into liquidation—at no cost to the Consumer.
Consumers feel less afraid of being financially disadvantaged should such an event arise.
Watertight Defective Construction Benefit then covers the consumer (following Handover) for the Statutory Warranty period (in the event of the same circumstances) - at no cost to the Consumer.
Members actively use the Watertight Benefits (logo & brochures) to draw attention in their own advertising or to close a sale over a non-member builder.
Watertight is the single biggest reason why some consumers only deal with a SPASA Member Although Watertight is a major Benefit for Builders, all Members get a spin-off Benefit by their association with the Association. Your Obligation The Association monitors Members activities to ensure that all members comply with this compulsory Membership requirement and we draw to your attention the fact that as a Member you are required to have all Domestic Building Contracts covered under Watertight Benefits. The SPASA Member must put this benefit in place on behalf of the customer.
Watertight is a great way to give peace of mind to the consumer, another exclusive
Your trusted pool professionals Choosing your Pool & Spa Only SPASA members are eligible to advertise in the Association’s annual magazine “Choosing your Pool & Spa in Queensland”. Thousands of copies of this magazine are sent out free to consumers each year, as a direct result of SPASA’s advertising on your behalf. Your advertising and credibility is placed directly in the hands of “product ready” customers. A demographic difficult to achieve without the promotional activities of an industry body such as SPASA. Naturally, the magazine is mailed out with a list of current Members. “Choosing your Pool & Spa” is also available to all members as a free hand out to prospective customers as part of their own sales presentation. This strengthens the member’s own image by openly providing important and generic information to assist consumers make an informed decision. In amongst the important generic information and advertising, consumers can also view the photos of the Members’ Award Winning Pools & Spas. Background photos are also taken from the other entries for Awards, which is yet another opportunity to receive free promotion of your top pools. Each year the front cover features a Member’s Award Winning Pool, chosen specifically from all the Award entries to take pride of place as a symbol of excellence. Another spectacular promotion opportunity free of charge to members! From the SPASA website and SPASA advertising, there are thousands of copies of this magazine sent out FREE to consumers with a list of SPASA members The Management Committee’s MISSION STATEMENT: “To ensure that we have an Association that is held in the highest esteem by it’s Members, by the Public, by the Thought Leaders, by other Industry Bodies, and by the Government Agencies & regulators that are influential in formulating the Policies and Regulations that control or influence the Swimming Pool Industry in Queensland”
Waterworks Contract Works & Liability Contractually, during the course of the contract, the Builder must effect and maintain the following insurances: all insurance required to comply with the WorkCover Act 1996; all insurances required to comply with the Queensland Building Services Authority Act 1991; Before commencing work under a contract—the builder must effect with a reputable and financially sound insurer and must maintain during the performance of the contract, Contract Works and Public Liability Insurances in the names of the owner and the builder for their respective rights and interest and upon usual and reasonable terms.
Such Contract Works Insurance must be for the full insurable value of the work under the contract, and must extend until 4.00pm on the date of practical completion.
Such Public Liability Insurance must cover the liabilities of the builder and the owner to third parties in respect of personal injury, death or damage to property arising out of or in connection with the work under the contract, and include cross-liability provisions by which the Insurer waives all rights of subrogation or action which the insurer may have against any of the persons comprising the insured and by which each person comprising the insured is deemed to be the subject of a separate policy of insurance; and provide cover in an amount of five million dollars($5,000,000) for any one occurrence
The builder must provide to the owner copies of the Contract Works and Public Liability Insurances effected by the builder in compliance with this condition. The above requirements are met absolutely (and exceeded) with WaterWorks. At the request of SPASA, SRS Underwriting not only protects the Consumer and the Builder “on-site” for $10,000,000 Public Liability, and Contract Works to the value of the contract, but also, the spin off benefit to the SPASA Member (that signs up for the scheme) is that the Member will have Annual Cover for Public Liability and Contract Works and Product Liability . No additional Insurances are required.
Consumers are aware of the value of the Association's standards. Money simply cannot buy the credibility created by SPASA membership
Waterworks gives peace of mind to the consumer, another exclusive membership benefit
Your trusted pool professionals Social & Networking Functions Each year SPASA organizes several networking events including the Industry Golf Day where suppliers, builders, manufacturers, distributors and retailers can get together to develop better relationships between members. Members are able to improve both business and personal relationships as well as their handicap all within working hours! Sponsorship opportunities and prize giveaways at these events promote goodwill and reinforce the branding with members. Members have stated that such events are a useful source of informal education and industry news by keeping in contact with other members. SPASA functions can also be an industry related opportunity to reward staff or clients. Team bonding of staff and clients outside the office in a social environment, improves interaction, group moral, team dynamics as well as ’ownership’ of the business. Website and links to SPASA Members sites The strong SPASA promotion and presentation of the internet website provides excellent opportunities for all members. The internet provides interactive visual advertising (after business hours, at the consumers’ leisure, in their own home). This is a huge growth area not to be missed. The SPASA site not only promotes and lists all members but also provides a link to individual members’ sites.
Fact sheets for Consumers Fact sheets are a series of flyers on pool building, maintenance and different systems to clean and heat pools, explained in generic terms to assist consumers make an informed decision. SPASA’s “generic” information increases consumer understanding in a non-biased way which speeds up the process of trust development and therefore their readiness to buy from a SPASA Member. Supplying consumers with the SPASA’s Magazine and Fact Sheets is a way for members to demonstrate to prospective clients the value of choosing a SPASA member and to develop trust (as you are prepared to offer generic information to back up your opinion or advice). The Magazine and Fact Sheets may also create a means for the opportunity to “get back” to customers with a reason for a second sales call. Use the Magazine & Fact Sheets to inform customers on pool systems and pool care. This may help to dissolve concerns which may avoid problems later. The Association has all the fact sheets on the Website at www.spasa.com.au.
Industry Updates The Association seeks out, gathers and passes on information from Government & Legislative Authorities, Local Councils, State & Federal Regulators, Queensland Building Services Authority etc as a cost effective service exclusive to members to keep them informed, and to reduce their costs as individual businesses. Topic areas cover issues such as changes to the Tax system, Fencing legislation, Building permits, Building Licensing, Construction guidelines and Industry Standards or any other information that may effect the daily running of your business– whether you are a Builder, Supplier, Pool Technician or any other trade/service in the Pool Industry in Queensland. Information is sent out in edited form to be relevant to the Swimming Pool & Spa Industry, rather than just general construction industry related. Newsletter subscriptions to Legal, Accounting and other Trade organizations are maintained and appropriate extracts forwarded on to members. Information is sought from specialists in the Pool Industry, and other third party organizations to obtain opinions and views on upcoming developments and to create awareness of relevant legal industry changes and current litigation outcomes. Media watch & access to Association by consumers SPASA not only keeps you up to date on industry issues and events being reported by the media, but also answers those media concerns on your behalf. Stay in touch with what consumers are hearing and reading. Members are informed on these issues in SPASA Q Update and other mail outs during the year. The association actively engages with the media and promotes the Benefits of Dealing with a SPASA Member across the State, which generates requests for thousands of Magazines (and a List of Members) each year.
Opportunities to Sponsor Associate Suppliers and Retailers are encouraged to take advantage of such captured market events for their brand reinforcement by sponsoring events, meetings and functions conducted by the Association. Sponsorship of functions can incorporate a time for guest speakers, space for displaying products, banners, hand outs or giveaways or brand promotion of a logo on the SPASA invitation etc.
Your trusted pool professionals Pool and Spa Awards of Excellence The credibility of being a SPASA “Award Winner” gives consumers a confidence in your product quality and design skills, which adds to the credibility of your sales presentations and your credibility as a SPASA Member pool builder. The awards create a designed focus in SPASA’s advertising to draw consumer attention which can develop positive discussion during a sales presentation that can support and speed up the closing of a sale. The Awards can also be a bonus for those consumers to own an award winning pool as it improves their house’s resale promotion. You can also increase the value perception of your pools by offering award winning designs to new customers. Photographs of all entries are publicly displayed by the Association at every opportunity, which stimulates enormous consumer interest and enquiry. High quality printing of Award winning pools are featured in the Association’s magazine. The Awards are a stimulus to take photographs for general promotion and advertising, as well as a catalyst for staff to aim to design award-winning pools. This could lead to building the pool that will be featured as the front cover of the magazine and also used by SPASA in their advertising during the year. Building award winning pools improves moral and group dynamics of staff. An excellent opportunity to get together, network and celebrate with winners!
Some members say that an Award of Excellence has the same value as an additional salesman for them. Nevertheless, the Annual Industry Awards are another SPASA promotion that is well received by the Industry, the Consumers and Government. These Awards are featured in the Association’s magazine and certainly promote the types of popular pools in Queensland. The Awards Gala Evening—is another magnificent night of winners.
SPASA Mediation Service SPASA Complaints and Mediation Service is a major benefit promoted to consumers by the Association and Government which provides a complaint resolution process free of charge for those consumers that deal with a SPASA member, and approved Mediation where necessary.
Consumers do feel more confident in dealing with a member who is supported by a third party mediation service of trained and experienced staff (should they have any concerns with their contract or sale) and by providing and promoting this service to your customers, it shows your confidence in your own commitment to customer service. Should mediation be required, the SPASA mediator may arrange for a independent site inspection by an “industry expert� free of charge to both parties to assist in the resolution of the complaint. Complaints handled by the SPASA Mediator not only reduce your own office and legal costs (equalling better profits for your business), but also enhance your professional image in the market place. Fair & just mediations reduce costs instead of just fixing - regardless of fault. Consumers are better satisfied with external mediation and a happy customer is your best type of advertisement, even if there was a problem.
Complaints/Disputes handled by the SPASA Mediator not only reduce your own office and legal costs but also enhance your professional image in the market place. Mediation enables complaints and disputes to be resolved and Contracts to be satisfactorily completed in a short time.
Joint Projects and Promotions The Association actively seeks out and develops various projects with Government and Community groups. Involvement with such projects enables the Association to organize and present industry feedback from our members to those bodies, whilst at the same time often gaining media coverage. Projects have been and are currently being undertaken with such organizations as the Royal Life Saving Society, Standards Australia, Queensland Building Services Authority and various Government departments. The results of these joint ventures are forwarded on to members and include, resuscitation posters, fencing brochures, pool check services, water quality, operational guidelines for pools and spas etc. Consumer recognition of the organizations we work with enhances the Association’s image, and that of its members. Such industry links would not be possible on an individual business by business basis. They are also developed so that SPASA members can be seen to be meeting and exceeding their responsibilities within the community for the community, as the recognized leaders in the pool and spa industry in Queensland.
Your trusted pool professionals Pool Safety Inspectors Automatically on joining SPASA, Pool Safety Inspectors will be allocated to 2 points towards your continuing professional development as implemented by the Pool Safety Council. SPASA endeavours to run information sessions, tele-conferences and webinars in order to assist members in achieving the remainder of the required points at little or no extra cost.
Pool Shops & Technicians
SPASA members enjoy quality referrals from our website and are recognised as being well respected and trusted professionals within the industry thanks to extensive campaigns which have been run over many years. This has instilled in pool owners that it is worth dealing with a SPASA member for peace of mind.
Associate trade contractors
In the same way that the pool shops and technicians benefit from the SPASA name, our associate members and trade contractors also receive plenty of value through referrals for services such as pool fencing, concreting, plumbing and electrical work to name just a few.
Suppliers Our supplier members benefit greatly through our networking and sponsorship opportunities to develop a one on one personal relationship with their customers outside of the normal business operations. Our industry forums present occasions to showcase new products of interest to a target audience that is motivated to learn or access new technology as it becomes available.
Your trusted pool professionals Benefits of Membership
Builder
Pool Technician or shop
Safety Inspector
Associate/ Trade
Supplier
Networking with suppliers & peers
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Membership Plus benefits
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Legislative updates
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Government lobbying
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Rebate schemes
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Consumer referrals
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Member to member referrals
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Compliance updates
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Merchant facilities
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Group insurances
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Fleet discounts
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Recognition as professional pool service
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Watertight benefits
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Waterworks insurance
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SPASA recommended contracts
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CPD Points on joining
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CPD Program
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Your trusted pool professionals Member Plus Benefits Scheme
Members Plus is an association loyalty program within Australia which is now part of your membership and included at no additional cost. Member Plus is a purchasing service that sources amazing prices and deals from suppliers around Australia. Members can potentially save thousands of dollars on their everyday purchases each year. Member Plus harnesses the combined purchasing power of over three and a half million members! Member Plus provides great savings across a wide range of quality products and services. Chances are they can help with whatever you are looking to buy. Just some of the products and services that can be sourced include but is not limited to: Electrical goods Computers Furniture Baby goods Groceries Mowers Optical Concert tickets
Cameras Travel Accommodation Manchester Perfumes Pharmacy Sewing machines Flowers
Motor vehicles Hire cars Floor coverings Jewellery Mobile phone plans Theme park tickets Wine Cabinetry
Members can placed orders on behalf of family to take advantage of the great deals. SPASA Members will be able to offer your staff additional Membership Plus cards under your membership at a small cost so that they and their families can also take advantage of the savings on offer!
Your trusted pool professionals Use of the SPASA logo & Advertising By-Law 1. 1.
The SPASA Logo may only be used by current and financial members of the Association, and only in respect to that business member and its authorized category of membership
2.
Whenever used the SPASA Logo:
3.
a) must be in the authorized colour and complete form. Including the word “Member”, b) must be positioned and used as close as possible to the member’s own business name to clearly indicate that this business is the member of SPASA, and
c) may only be displayed on the premises and vehicles, and/or used on printed promotional material and advertising of the SPASA member, in relation to that member’s authorized category of membership 4.
The SPASA Logo may not be used in any way whatsoever that could lead to a perception that the Association guarantees, authorizes, recommends or endorses in any way, any product, service, contract, other business, or other item which is owned, controlled, produced or marketed by the SPASA member 5. In all advertising where a price is shown, then an adequate and appropriate description of the product or service must also be shown. In the case of a Pool or Spa-its dimensions.
Money simply can’t buy the credibility created by SPASA membership. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. SPASA’s promotions ensure that consumers are aware of the SPASA benefits before your standard sales presentation is commenced, and are often looking for SPASA members over non-members regardless of price or product. Consumers are aware of the value of the Association’s standards and services. They are also aware that not all businesses qualify for SPASA membership, which makes them feel comfortable and confident in dealing with you as a member. The technical skills & professionalism of SPASA members is promoted and perceived to be greater than non-members which reinforces the perception of greater protection for the consumer. Membership fees cover the administration of the whole association and the associated promotions, which is of benefit to you, even if you don’t supply the particular product or service, as you still get the credibility of other members who do! Smaller members get the credibility and advertising “spin off” of the larger members. The image and perception of the overall association will increase your own credibility as a member. Membership gives the added benefit of referrals from other members with similar ethics, principles and quality of all work. This supports a consumer concept that all SPASA members work together with a shared pride in the project which can include separate members for the fencing, landscaping, paving, pool covers, heating and on-going maintenance etc. Members are regularly reminded of their responsibility to consumers and their membership commitments, to increase the level of service and professionalism of Association members, making a good Association even more promotable.
Members’ Code of Ethics 1.
To hold inviolate the concepts of free enterprise and unselfish service to the public
2.
To operate at all times in a manner that will enhance the reputation of the swimming pool & spa industry in the local community and across the nation
3.
To make the largest contribution possible to the health, safety and welfare of the public in the installation, maintenance and operation of swimming pools & spas, and to comply with all applicable laws, ordinances and regulations
4.
To support all efforts to improve swimming pool & spa products and service, and to encourage research and the development of new materials and methods
5.
To advertise and sell the merits of products and service and refrain from making unwarranted criticism of competitors or reflecting unfairly on their products, service or methods of doing business
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To advertise only bona fide prices and products and to refrain from using innuendos in advertising and selling that may cause our customers to be misled
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To ensure that all material facts are revealed, and to avoid accusations of concealment of information in any dealings
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To co-operate and assist where possible with all levels of Government in connection with their dealings with the swimming pool & spa industry
9.
To fulfil all contractual obligations, and offer a reasonable warranty on products or services, and to perform on such warranty, either written or implied, when and where justifiable claims are in order, and to do so promptly
10.
To take no action or make any statement that may be construed to prejudice a preexisting contract for the construction or supply of goods or services pertaining to the swimming pool & spa industry
11.
To act fairly and properly at all times towards fellow members of the Association and when a member is called upon to advise, consult, rectify or otherwise take any action in relation to products, services or works provided, to carry out such works or action or advice on behalf of the consumer in a professional and unbiased manner
SPASA Members can be seen to be meeting and exceeding their responsibilities within the community, for the community, as the recognised leaders in the pool and spa industry.
Your trusted pool professionals SPASA Recommended Contracts Swimming Pool—Construction, Installation and Renovation The purpose of the Domestic Building Contracts Act 2000 in regulating domestic building contracts, is to achieve a reasonable balance between the interests of building contractors and building owners and to maintain appropriate standards of conduct in the building industry. Contractors licensed for Swimming Pool Construction, Installation, and Maintenance or Renovation are bound by this Act. The members of the Swimming Pool & Spa Association of Queensland Inc. working with our legal advisors and the various government authorities involved have developed a series of specific Consumer Contract Packs (Preliminary Agreements, Contracts, Approved Consumer Information Statements and “Handovers”) for the Swimming Pool Industry in Queensland that comply with the government’s requirements, and ensure the protection of the rights of both of the parties involved. The Act requires that a government approved Consumer Information Statement is given to consumers, and that it also provides for a 5-day cooling off period (prior to entering into a Contract). SPASA Recommended Contracts are only available to SPASA members and they: 1. meet all of the requirements of the new legislation, 2. are acceptable under the SPASA Watertight Contract Benefits Scheme, 3. are insurable under the WaterWorks Insurance program, 4. include a Government Approved Consumer Information Statement and 5. include a dispute resolution process as required by the Act. To our knowledge, - these are the only Contracts specifically written for Swimming Pool Construction, - are the only specific Contract for which a specific “Consumer Information Statement” has been approved by the BSA for the Swimming Pool Industry, - are the only Contract that has the support of the Government acknowledged peak body for the Swimming Pool Industry in Queensland—SPASA. Consumers upon becoming aware of their rights under the Act, will demand to see a government approved Consumer Information Statement, together with a written contract that complies with the Act that is specifically written for the Swimming Pool Industry in Queensland. Check out the Act and the penalties imposed on contractors for non-compliance. Being a member of SPASA, the only Government recognized peak body for the Swimming Pool Industry in Queensland—definitely has its advantages—as a Self Assessing and Self Regulating section of the Building Industry. Get with the Strength of Numbers and become involved. Make sure your opinion and voice is heard.
Now is the time to consider becoming a member of SPASA, the only Govt. recognised peak body for the Swimming Pool Industry in Queensland
Membership Application Guidelines Applications The name, operating address and owners of each applicant business is circulated to existing members for comment, as part of the application process. SPASA membership is only granted to a single recognized business name or trading style, for its appropriate Classification and Category in the market place. Where a principal or company has multiple business names, trading styles or trades in several categories, each one will require a separate application and assessment for membership, relative to the activities of that business. Interviews Each applicant will be required to be interviewed, tested and assessed (as may be applicable) by a Sub-Committee of peers convened for the purpose, in respect to the applicant’s: 1.
Skills and Trade Knowledge
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Business Knowledge and Viability
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Engineering Plans, Contractual Obligations
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Consumer and Industry Obligations
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Past Business, Education or Trade experiences
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Current Insurance Requirements (Contractor’s All Risk, Public Liability, WorkCover etc.)
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Current Licensing Requirements
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Past Client comments
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Reason for wanting SPASA Membership
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Determination of Membership category for listing
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Understanding and Acceptance of :
Your application is private and confidential
SPASA Code of Ethics, Rules and Regulations, Mediation and Disciplinary Obligations, Statutory Requirements and Watertight Benefits
Following this interview, and having considered all other appropriate information, this Sub-Committee will make a recommendation to the Management Committee to accept or reject the application. The Management Committee (in its Sole Discretion) will offer Membership in a Category and Class of Membership that is deemed appropriate for the Applicant’s business.
Your trusted pool professionals Membership Application Information Membership
All admissions are granted on a provisional basis for the member’s first membership year, during which time the management committee may review, confirm or reject such application as it deems fit under the Association Rules. The Category and Classifications of Membership granted will be at the sole discretion of the management committee, based on the applicant’s business operations within the Pool and Spa Industry in Queensland. Membership is normally granted for the applicant business, in the category and classification of membership as assessed and recommended by the Sub-Committee, appointed for the purpose—based on the information provided by the Applicant. If additional membership is required for another business name, or in another or additional category or classification—a separate application must be submitted for assessment, which is then subject to an additional membership fee for that category or class. Membership Classifications There are Four (4) basic Membership Classifications: 1.
MEMBER being a business that is BSA Licensed for Pool Building OR deals 70%+ with Pool & Spa consumers. Is a Full Member, has a vote, can be appointed/elected to the Management Committees, and has access to all Association services. Is listed in the published list of members, contributes to and enjoys the benefits of Association promotions and advertising. Pays an annual category fee (based on their annual turnover in the Pool & Spa Industry in Queensland), together with a Levy (based on Consumer Sales).
2.
ASSOCIATE being a business that deals 70%+ with the Pool & Spa Industry (Manufacturers, Distributors or Retailers of Associated Materials or Equipment) or Trade Contractors to the Industry. Is a Full Member, has a vote, can be appointed/elected to Management Committees, and has access to all Association services. Is listed in the published list of members, contributes to and enjoys the benefits of Association promotions and advertising. Pays an annual category fee (based on their turnover in the Pool & Spa Industry in Queensland), together with a Levy (based on Consumer Sales).
3.
SUBSCRIBER being a business (in Australia or Overseas), who has an interest in the Pool & Spa Industry in Queensland, and/or shows business operations are not able to be identified or classified under 1. or 2. above. Is a member, but has no vote, cannot be appointed/elected to Management Committees, can be appointed to Sub-Committees, and has limited access to Association services. Is listed in the published list of members. Pays a fixed annual Subscription, together with a fixed annual listing fee.
4.
POOL SHOP (or Mobile Technician) being a business that deals 70%+ with consumers in testing and balancing pool water. Is a Full Member, has a vote, can be appointed/ elected to the Management Committee and has access to all Association services. Is listed in the published list of members, contributes to and enjoys the benefits of Association promotions and advertising. Pays a fixed annual category fee, together with a fixed Levy.
Membership Application Information Qualifying Associate Suppliers that conduct operations from a Queensland HO in more than one or more States of Australia may also apply for recognition in all States as a SPASA National Member. Is a full member, has a vote, can be appointed or elected to the Management Committees, and has access to all the Association services. Is listed in the published list of members. Pays an annual membership and advertising fee (based on the total turnover in Australia), which is shared proportionally with the other State Associations. Sub-CATEGORIES OF MEMBERSHIP The Four (4) basic Classifications of Membership are then broken up into Categories, to reflect the actual activity of the business within that Industry Class. e.g. BSA Licensed Builder MEMBERS may specialize in Concrete Construction, Pool Renovation, FRP Installation, or Landscaping etc, and are Licensed to contract to Consumers. * These applicants must hold a BSA Licence for the selected category and must also provide details of three (3) past consumer clients, from whom information regarding the satisfactory completion of the contracts can be obtained for projects that are able to be assessed by the SubCommittee. Applicant must derive 70% (or more), of their annual turnover, in the selected category. Retail MEMBERS may specialize in Pool Chemicals, Pool Equipment, Pool/Site Fencing, Pool Heating/Cooling, DIY Kits (Pools, Spas, Saunas, Hot Tubs etc). ASSOCIATE Suppliers, Manufacturers, Distributors may specialize in Pool Chemicals, Pool Equipment, Pool/Site Fencing, Pool Heating/Cooling, DIY Kits (Pools, Spas, Saunas, Hot Tubs etc), Pool Building Materials or Industry Consultancy etc, or, may be appropriately qualified to provide Trade or Sub-contract work to the Industry * These applicant must be able to be recognized as a Manufacturer, or Distributor, or Supplier, or Retailer, or Trade Contractor in the selected Category, and, must also provide details of three (3) past clients (Industry or Consumer), from whom information regarding past services can be obtained. Applicants must derive 70% (or more), of their annual turnover, in the selected category Poolshop or Mobile Technician MEMBERS may operate from a shop front or a mobile vehicle or have elements of both. * Applicants must derive 70% (or more), of their annual turnover in this Domestic Pool service/ maintenance Category, and, must also provide details of three (3) past consumer clients from who information regarding past services can be obtained. Notes 1.
It is acknowledged and accepted that some applicants (due to the nature or size of their total business), may be able to qualify for classification as both a member and an Associate (as the business applicant trades with both consumers and the industry with difference products or services). Separate Applications are required for each.
2.
If an International, Overseas or Interstate Subscriber Member commences trading in Queensland, they are obliged to advise the Association, and request transfer to full membership of the business in Queensland.
Your trusted pool professionals Consumers deal with
SPASA members because:
SPASA MEMBERS ARE SUPPORTED By a State-wide, voluntary, self-assessing and self-regulated body (with National and International affiliations), whose members agree to abide by its rules, regulations and a strict Code of Ethics, in the conduct of their business SPASA Members have access to technical training and educational programmes designed to ensure their construction, sales and support staff perform with technical excellence To gain acceptance to SPASA a Contractor must provide evidence of competent trading, acceptable credit, acceptable skills assessment and adequate public liability insurance to ensure protection of Customers The SPASA Office is available to Members and their Customers to assist with any concerns
SPASA MEMBERS ARE MONITORED Members are subject to continuing assessment by their peers as to business acumen, professionalism, consumer relations and trade skills Members are subject to continuing assessment by the Association management as to their consumer and peer relationships in accordance with the Members’ Code of Ethics
Swimming Pool & Spa Association IA: 17568 ABN: ABN: 13 935 751 789 PO Box 2123, Fortitude Valley, Queensland 4006 — Australia Phone: (07) 3252 6777 Fax: (07) 3252 6700 Email: Info@spasa.com.au
Pool Professionals you can trust.
Your trusted pool professionals Consumers deal with
SPASA members because:
SPASA MEMBERS CAN PROVIDE Watertight Contract Benefits The BSA Statutory Insurance Scheme does not cover Swimming Pool Construction Only SPASA Members are able to provide the Benefits that will complete the Contract and then stand behind the SPASA Member’s contract for the Statutory Warranty Period (up to 6 years) for Defects—if the Contractor is unable to do so for reasons of death, disappearance or insolvency WaterWorks Contract & Liability Insurance In conjunction with SRS Underwriting only SPASA Members are able to provide WaterWorks insurances for both the Customer and the Contractor in respect of personal injury, death or damage to property arising out of or in connection with work under the contract—until 4pm on the Date of Practical Completion Finance for the Lifestyle you would like In conjunction with Citibank, only SPASA Members can assist you to use the equity in your property to fund Pools and other home improvements to suit your individual needs Specific Contractual Documents That comply with Queensland Legislation, suited to the purpose, which are constantly reviewed to protect the rights of the Customer and the Contractor WHAT IF ? Members are supported and so are their Customers. The SPASA Office provides a Consumer Complaints process and a system of facilitative assistance that endeavours, in the event of a dispute, to arrange for a Mediator to assist the parties to reach a solution that is acceptable to both sides. This usually avoids costly and traumatic litigation SPASA Staff are trained and experienced for this purpose and are available to assist the Customer and the Contractor in reaching an understanding and an agreement with their concerns.
Swimming Pool & Spa Association IA: 17568 ABN: 13 935 751 789 PO Box 2123, Fortitude Valley, Queensland 4006 — Australia Phone: (07) 3252 6777 Fax: (07) 3252 6700 Email: Info@spasa.com.au
Pool Professionals you can trust.