The current QLD government Smoke alarm legislation mandates that all residences must be equipped with interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway (or adjacent area), and on every floor by 2027.
Photoelectric smoke alarms will detect various types of fires, especially smoldering fires and thick smoke, which are prevalent in household fire incidents.
Interconnected alarms ensure that when one alarm triggers, all alarms activate simultaneously. This synchronised response provides crucial additional time, potentially making a life-saving difference in emergency situations.
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All existing private homes, townhouses and units will require photoelectric interconnected smoke alarms. These must be either a hardwired (eg. 240v) or non-removable 10 year battery powered type alarm.
The legislation requires smoke alarms must be installed in the following locations:
Landlords are responsible for the installation of smoke alarms that comply with Smoke Alarm legislation.
Existing smoke alarms manufactured more than 10 years ago, as well as any smoke alarms that do not operate when tested, must be replaced with photoelectric smoke alarms that comply with Australian Standard 3786–2014.
Landlords and renters
Within 30 days before the start of a tenancy in a domestic dwelling, the lessor/landlord must test and clean each smoke alarm in the dwelling.
During a tenancy, the tenant must test and clean each smoke alarm in the dwelling, at least once every 12 months.
To test a smoke alarm, press the ‘test’ button. Cleaning should be done according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which is usually vacuuming.
You do not need to be qualified or licenced to clean or test a domestic smoke alarm.
A real estate may request a “certificate of compliance” from fire alarm companies as proof of service. This is not a legal requirement but may be part of the real estate agent’s internal process.
Since the 1st January 2022, at the commencement of a new lease or lease renewal, you must ensure your dwelling / unit meets the requirements of the domestic smoke alarm legislation.
This may involve installing interconnected photoelectric smoke alarms into the bedrooms in addition to the currently required smoke alarms.
Installation of approved smoke alarms is the responsibility of the property Landlord.
Testing and replacement requirements still apply.
As part of a building approval process, requiring a Building Certifier, all new homes and renovations should have the required smoke alarms installed pursuant to the requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC) formally known as Building Code of Australia (BCA) and the Building Regulation 2006.
Smoke alarms must be hardwired, or for existing dwellings, they can also be powered by a non-removable 10-year battery.
To get everyone out safely during a house fire, it is essential to also have a well-practised fire escape plan.
