{"id":7381,"date":"2020-06-18T10:14:48","date_gmt":"2020-06-18T00:14:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/austfirepro.com.au\/?p=7381"},"modified":"2026-07-09T22:35:15","modified_gmt":"2026-07-09T12:35:15","slug":"general-information-on-smoke-and-fire-alarms","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/austfirepro.gcw.net.au\/old\/2020\/06\/18\/general-information-on-smoke-and-fire-alarms\/","title":{"rendered":"General Information on Smoke and Fire Alarms"},"content":{"rendered":"

Like fire extinguishers, many people assume that smoke and fire alarms last forever and don\u2019t need maintenance or replacement once they\u2019re installed. But, in fact, you need to check and maintain these alarms regularly. Aside from replacing their batteries or power sources once they\u2019ve run out, you\u2019ll also need to test them regularly to make sure they\u2019re functioning properly. Smoke and fire alarms that are running low on power or not working properly are practically useless.<\/p>\n

Upgrading Smoke Alarms (Ref<\/strong>: QFD Community Smoke Alarm information <\/a>)<\/p>\n

Old ionisation smoke alarms can be slow to react, and may not give you or your loved ones enough time to escape. That’s why there’s new legislation to install photoelectric smoke alarms, which have been proven to be more effective in the domestic home. Upgrading your smoke alarms today could save a life.<\/p>\n

Landlords\u200b\u200b\u200b\u200b<\/h2>\n

From 1 January 2017<\/h3>\n

Landlords are responsible for the installation of smoke alarms that comply with new Smoke Alarm legislation, introduced on 1 January, 2017.<\/p>\n

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\u20132014.<\/p>\n

Landlords and renters<\/strong><\/h2>\n

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.<\/p>\n

During a tenancy in a domestic dwelling, 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.<\/p>\n

Some real estate agents may outsource smoke alarm maintenance to another company with associated fees paid by the landlord. The real estate may request a “certificate of compliance” from these companies as proof of service. This is not a legal requirement but may be part of the real estate agent’s internal process.<\/p>\n

From 1 January 2022<\/h3>\n

If you are not compliant by 1 January 2022, you will not be legally able to rent your property. You will be forced to lose any current tenants and cover the costs to find new ones.<\/p>\n

For An Owner Occupier<\/strong><\/h2>\n

For existing dwellings from 1 January 2017<\/h3>\n

Existing smoke alarms manufactured more than 10 years ago must be replaced with photoelectric smoke alarms which comply with Australian Standards (AS) 3786-2014. (Note: the date should be stamped on the back). Smoke alarms that do not operate when tested must be replaced immediately. Existing hardwired smoke alarms that need replacement, must be replaced with a hardwired photoelectric smoke alarm.<\/p>\n

From 1 January 2027<\/h3>\n

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:<\/p>\n

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