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Frequently asked questions
Homeowners:
What type of smoke alarms are required in Queensland?
Queensland law requires photoelectric smoke alarms that are less than 10 years old, interconnected with each other, and either hardwired or powered by a sealed 10-year battery. Ionisation alarms and 9v only alarms are no longer compliant.
Where do smoke alarms need to be installed?
Smoke alarms must be installed in every bedroom, in hallways outside bedrooms, and on every storey of the home. If there’s no hallway, then an alarm will be installed between the bedroom and the rest of the dwelling.
What does "interconnected" mean?
Interconnected smoke alarms are linked so that if one alarm is triggered, all alarms in the home sound at the same time. This gives everyone in the home the best chance of escaping safely.
Homeowners – 2027 Legislation
What are the smoke alarm requirements for owner-occupied homes by 2027?
From 1 January 2027, all Queensland owner-occupier homes must meet the same smoke alarm standards as rental properties: photoelectric, interconnected, and correctly positioned alarms in all bedrooms and hallways.
Can I install the alarms myself?
You can install battery-powered smoke alarms yourself, but if you have hardwired smoke alarms, these must remain part of the upgraded system and must be replaced by a licensed electrician. Professional installation ensures full compliance and proper alarm placement, as well as a photographic compliance certificate.
Landlords & Rental Properties
What do landlords need to do before a tenancy starts?
The Residential Tenancy Authority states that smoke alarms must be cleaned, tested, and have any flat batteries replaced within 30 days before the start of a new tenancy or lease renewal. A compliance certificate should also be provided for your peace of mind.
Will you provide a smoke alarm compliance certificate?
Yes. After installation or inspection, Better Home Compliance issues a photographic certificate that outlines the compliance status of your home and any works that need to be completed.
Maintenance & Upgrades
How often should smoke alarms be replaced?
Smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years from the manufacture date, even if they still appear to be working.
What happens if I don’t comply with the smoke alarm legislation?
Failing to comply may result in fines, invalidate your insurance, or lead to legal consequences if an incident occurs. More importantly, it puts lives at risk.