New Queensland Smoke Alarm Laws – Effective from 1 January 2022
Smoke alarms, or smoke detectors have been mandatory since 2007. The technology has changed significantly since then. According to the ABC “Most alarms installed in residential homes currently are the older ionisation style, powered by a 9 volts battery.” There are still many homes in Queensland and around the Gold Coast using these outdated smoke alarms. The Queensland government aims to make “Queensland households the safest in Australia in relation to fire safety“.
How does this affect you?
Here is a summary of who the New Queensland Smoke Alarm Laws apply to:
* New domestic dwellings
* Properties that are undergoing substantial renovations
* All rental properties
Even if you are do not fit into one of the above 3 categories, it would be worthwhile considering upgrading your smoke detectors anyway. It is generally recommended you replace your smoke detector after 10 years, according to Fire & Rescue NSW. It might be a good time to check out how old your smoke detectors are.
What are the new requirements?
Smoke alarms must be:
* Photoelectric type only.
* Hard wired to the electricity supply or powered by a non-removable 10-year battery.
* Interconnected to every other smoke alarm in the house.
* Installed in each bedroom.
* Installed in hallways serving each bedroom, and
* Installed in the exit path of every storey not containing bedrooms.
Are you a landlord?
Upgrade your smoke alarms today! From 1 January 2022, landlords must install interconnected smoke alarms in residential rental properties.
This is so that when one goes off, they all go off, giving everyone extra time to escape.
When do other households need to update?
All other dwellings must transition to full compliance by 2027.
Don’t leave it to the last minute. You could save a life.
Thanks for reading about New Queensland Smoke Alarm Laws.
For a quote by a licensed electrician, contact WSM Electrical.
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